Hold onto your bolters, Warhammer fans, because Games Workshop just shook the tabletop universe. For the first time ever, female Custodes models are officially joining the ranks of Warhammer 40K. This isn't just a new release; it's a seismic shift in the game's long-standing traditions.
During their recent New Year Preview livestream, Games Workshop unveiled a stunning array of Legio and Adeptus Custodes models. But the real showstopper? Several of these models featured distinctly female-presenting heads. This marks a dramatic departure from the past, where the Emperor's elite guard has always been portrayed with exclusively male features.
Now, you might be thinking, “Wait, didn’t Warhammer 40K already have female warriors?” Yes, the Sisters of Silence have been around since the Seventh Edition in 2017, serving as the female counterpart to the Custodes. But here’s where it gets interesting: Games Workshop has been subtly laying the groundwork for this change for years. In the 2024 rulebook, a short story introduced Calladayce Taurovalia Kesh, a female Custodian, and the animated series Tithes later featured Tyrith Shiva Kyrus, another female Custodian. Both instances sparked heated debates, particularly among the more conservative corners of the Warhammer community.
But this latest move isn’t just a nod to inclusivity—it’s a definitive statement. During the livestream, Games Workshop went out of their way to clarify that the Shield Captain’s unhelmeted head features “golden leaf woven into her hair,” leaving no room for ambiguity. They also confirmed that this isn’t a retcon of the lore. Instead, they explained that while first-born sons were traditionally chosen, noble daughters could also have been selected. And let’s face it, even an empire as vast as the Imperium needs a steady stream of recruits to fuel its endless wars.
This decision is more than just a win for fans who’ve been advocating for greater diversity in the game. It’s a bold stand against the bad-faith arguments from a vocal, right-wing faction of the community. By introducing these models, Games Workshop is not only expanding the narrative possibilities of Warhammer 40K but also reinforcing its commitment to inclusivity.
And for those eager to get their hands on these groundbreaking models, the new Legio Custodes range—compatible with both Horus Heresy and Warhammer 40K—will be available later this year.
But here’s the real question: Does this change enhance the lore, or does it dilute the uniqueness of the Custodes? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—we’re all ears.
If you’re hungry for more updates from the worlds of sci-fi and fantasy, don’t forget to check out the latest release dates for Marvel, Star Wars, Star Trek, the DC Universe, and Doctor Who. The future of these franchises is as exciting as a Necron awakening—and you won’t want to miss it!
