The Warhammer 40K Kommandos kit stands out as a highly anticipated and critically acclaimed addition to the Warhammer 40,000 universe, particularly for fans of the greenskin hordes. This review delves deep into what makes this particular set of Ork specialists an exceptional choice for both seasoned hobbyists and newcomers alike. We will explore its intricate details, gameplay implications, and overall value in the vast landscape of miniature wargaming.
Quick Summary
Rating: 4.6/5 stars
Price: $58.65 USD
Key Pros:
- Exceptional Detail: Each model is packed with character and intricate Ork design.
- Dynamic Poses: The miniatures capture action and movement, making them visually engaging.
- Versatile Gameplay: Excellent for both Warhammer 40,000 and the skirmish game Kill Team.
Key Cons:
- Assembly Required: Multi-part plastic kits demand careful assembly.
- Premium Price Point: Reflects Games Workshop’s standard pricing for specialist units.
Table of Contents
Warhammer 40K Kommandos Overview
The Warhammer 40K Kommandos kit brings to life one of the most characterful and tactically interesting units in the Ork arsenal. Kommandos are not your typical charge-headlong Orks; they are the sneakiest, most cunning greenskins, specializing in infiltration, sabotage, and ambushes. This kit perfectly encapsulates their unique identity, offering models that are not only visually striking but also brimming with personality.
Historically, Ork Kommandos have been a fan-favorite unit, known for their unconventional tactics and often hilarious attempts at stealth. This latest iteration from Games Workshop elevates their design to new heights, providing highly detailed plastic miniatures that truly reflect their role as elite, specialized operatives within an Ork Waaagh!. They represent a departure from the massed infantry style often associated with Orks, focusing instead on precision and surprise.
For collectors, the Kommandos represent a fantastic opportunity to add distinct models to their collection, offering a break from the more common Boyz or Nobs. Each model within the squad has a unique pose and loadout, making them a joy to assemble and paint. This level of individuality is a hallmark of modern Games Workshop kits and is particularly evident here.
In terms of gameplay, the Warhammer 40K Kommandos excel in both full-scale Warhammer 40,000 battles and the smaller skirmish game, Kill Team. Their rules often allow them to deploy in advantageous positions, outflank enemies, and engage vulnerable targets. This tactical flexibility makes them an invaluable asset for any Ork general looking to add a layer of cunning to their brute force.
The kit appeals to a broad audience, from dedicated Ork players seeking to optimize their army lists to hobbyists who simply enjoy painting characterful miniatures. It also serves as an excellent starting point for those interested in the Kill Team game, as the Kommandos are one of the most iconic and effective teams available. Their lore, which paints them as Orks who believe they are sneaky enough to avoid detection, adds a layer of humor and charm that is uniquely Ork.
Understanding the context of Kommandos within the wider Ork faction is crucial. While most Orks relish a direct charge, Kommandos prefer to get up close and personal without being seen, or at least, without being seen until it’s too late for their enemies. This kit captures that essence, with models peeking around corners, carrying specialized gear, and generally looking like they’re up to no good. It’s a fantastic representation of Ork ingenuity, however crude it may be.
The design philosophy behind the new Warhammer 40K Kommandos models leans heavily into narrative storytelling. Each miniature tells a part of the Kommandos’ story, from the Nob with his power klaw to the specialists like the Burna Boy and the Breacha. This attention to detail not only makes them great on the tabletop but also highly desirable display pieces for any Warhammer enthusiast.
They are a testament to Games Workshop’s evolving sculpting techniques and commitment to characterful units. You can learn more about the broader Warhammer 40,000 universe and its factions on the official Games Workshop website: Warhammer 40,000 Official Site.
Warhammer 40K Kommandos Key Features & Specs
The Warhammer 40K Kommandos kit is meticulously designed to provide a rich hobby experience, from assembly to painting and gameplay. Understanding its key features and specifications is essential for appreciating the value it brings to your collection and gaming table. This kit is a prime example of modern miniature design, blending intricate detail with practical playability.
The box contains 10 multi-part plastic Ork Kommandos miniatures, along with one Bomb Squig and one Distraction Grot (often referred to as a Squig in the kit description for simplicity). These models are supplied with appropriate Citadel round bases, typically 32mm for the Kommandos and smaller bases for the Squigs and Grot. This ensures they are ready for immediate use once assembled.
One of the most striking aspects of this kit is the exceptional sculpt detail. Each Kommando is uniquely posed and equipped, showcasing a variety of specialized gear and dynamic stances. You’ll find Orks peeking through grates, clambering over obstacles, and brandishing an array of improvised weaponry. The textures on their armor, skin, and weapons are incredibly fine, providing an excellent canvas for painters.
The kit includes a diverse range of specialist Kommandos, each with a distinct role and appearance. This includes the Kommando Nob, often armed with a power klaw or big choppa; a Burna Boy, wielding a flamethrower; a Rokkit Launcha Boy, carrying a shoulder-mounted rocket launcher; and a Breacha Boy, equipped with a large breaching tool. These specialists add both visual variety and tactical depth to the unit.
While the models are multi-part, offering a satisfying assembly process, their poses are largely fixed to achieve their dynamic look. This means less modularity than some older Ork kits, but the trade-off is incredibly characterful and action-packed miniatures. Hobbyists will need plastic glue and clippers for assembly, and mold lines are minimal, a testament to Games Workshop’s quality control.
The inclusion of the Bomb Squig and Distraction Grot (or Squig) further enhances the kit’s appeal. These smaller, characterful models add extra gameplay options and visual interest. The Bomb Squig, for instance, is a living explosive that can be sent hurtling towards enemies, while the Distraction Grot provides a sneaky diversion, perfectly fitting the Kommando theme.
From a material perspective, these miniatures are cast in Games Workshop’s high-quality grey plastic. This material holds detail exceptionally well and is relatively easy to work with, whether you’re clipping, gluing, or cleaning. The sprues are well-organized, making it straightforward to identify parts for each individual model, which is a significant convenience for hobbyists.
The design ensures that these Kommandos scale perfectly with other Warhammer 40,000 Ork miniatures, allowing them to seamlessly integrate into existing armies. Their compact size and specialist roles also make them ideal for the smaller, more narrative-driven games of Kill Team, where each model’s loadout and abilities are critically important. This dual utility adds considerable value to the kit, making it a versatile choice for different gaming formats. For more in-depth lore on Ork Kommandos, you can visit Lexicanum.
Pros & Cons
Evaluating the Warhammer 40K Kommandos kit requires a balanced look at its strengths and weaknesses. This detailed assessment will help you decide if these sneaky Orks are the right addition to your collection or gaming roster. The kit offers numerous advantages, but like any specialist product, it comes with specific considerations.
Pros:
- Exceptional Detail and Character: The sculpts for each Kommando are absolutely phenomenal, capturing the unique, cunning personality of these Orks. From their custom gear and camouflaged bits to their individual expressions, every model is a miniature masterpiece. This level of detail makes them incredibly rewarding to paint and a standout unit on the tabletop.
- Dynamic and Unique Poses: Unlike many standard infantry kits, the Kommandos boast a range of dynamic, action-oriented poses that convey movement and stealth. Models are depicted clambering, sneaking, and preparing for ambush, bringing a vibrant sense of narrative to the unit. This visual flair sets them apart and makes them highly engaging.
- Versatile for Multiple Game Systems: The kit is perfectly suited for both large-scale Warhammer 40,000 battles and the skirmish game Kill Team. In Kill Team, they are one of the most popular and effective teams, offering unique tactical options. For 40K, they provide crucial flanking and objective-grabbing capabilities, making them a valuable asset in many army lists.
- Strong Thematic and Lore Representation: The Kommandos perfectly embody their lore as
