A groundbreaking moment has arrived for Games Workshop and its Warhammer 40K universe! The company has unveiled a bold new direction, introducing female Custodes models that challenge traditional norms and spark intriguing discussions.
During the New Year Preview livestream, Games Workshop showcased an exciting range of models for the Legio and Adeptus Custodes, featuring some with female-presenting heads. This marks a significant departure from the past, where the Emperor of Man's personal guard has always been depicted with male-presenting heads.
Warhammer 40K has previously introduced the Sisters of Silence as the female equivalent to the Custodes, but Games Workshop is now taking a bold step forward. In 2024, they began to gradually loosen some restrictions, featuring a short story about a female Custodian named Calladayce Taurovalia Kesh in that year's rulebook. This representation continued with the animated series Tithes, which introduced another female Custodian, Tyrith Shiva Kyrus. These inclusions sparked reactions from the right-wing faction of the Warhammer community, adding a layer of controversy to the discussion.
But here's where it gets interesting: the inclusion of female Custodes models suggests a permanent shift in the franchise's direction. Games Workshop addressed potential debates by emphasizing the Shield Captain's unhelmeted head, with golden leaves woven into her hair, leaving no room for ambiguity. They confirmed that this isn't a change in lore, but rather an expansion of possibilities, stating that noble daughters could also be taken into the Custodes, especially when the constant demand for recruits outpaces the availability of noble houses.
This move by Games Workshop is a powerful statement against its right-wing base, showing a commitment to diversity and inclusivity. It's a victory for fans who have been advocating for such representation, and the new Legio Custodes models, compatible with both Horus Heresy and Warhammer 40K, are set to hit shelves later this year.
So, what do you think about this bold move by Games Workshop? Is it a step towards a more inclusive gaming universe, or does it spark concerns for some? Share your thoughts in the comments and let's discuss!
