Total War: Warhammer 3's army of Cathay has broken containment and is making its way to tabletop Warhammer at last

Warhammer: The Old World Returns with Cathay Miniatures

The resurgence of Warhammer’s classic setting in the form of Warhammer: The Old World has been met with considerable enthusiasm within the tabletop gaming community. Initial apprehension arose following the announcement, as it suggested that the newly introduced factions of Cathay and Kislev, prominent in Total War: Warhammer 3, might not be translated into physical miniature form. However, robust sales figures appear to have shifted these plans. While updates regarding Kislev remain pending, the arrival of Cathay miniatures was officially hinted at earlier in the year.

AdeptiCon Unveiling: Cathay Army Showcase

Definitive confirmation emerged during the annual Warhammer preview at this year’s AdeptiCon event, where a detailed showcase of the forthcoming miniatures was presented. The designs of these figures closely mirror those featured in Total War: Warhammer 3, a predictable outcome considering the collaborative development between Creative Assembly and Games Workshop.

Cathay Miniature Highlights

Artillery and Miao Ying

The artillery pieces, specifically a cannon and a fire rain rocket battery, exhibit a particularly imposing aesthetic, characterized by dragon-shaped frontages and ogre crew members. Miao Ying, the Storm Dragon, a legendary character from the video game, is presented in two forms: her human aspect, strategically positioned on rocky terrain, and her dragon form, adorned with elaborate armor.

Jade Warriors, Sentinels, and Sky Lantern

The core infantry of the army comprises jade warriors and jade lancers, complemented by impressive units such as the towering sentinels—available in terracotta, jade, or warpstone variations—and the sky lantern hot-air balloon. The crew of the sky lantern, depicted in the act of preparing to release bombs and discharge firearms, convey a sense of exhilaration.

Beastmen and Wood Elves Also Previewed

In addition to Cathay, the preview also incorporated two more forthcoming armies for Warhammer: The Old World: the Beastmen and Wood Elves. Aligning with the pattern established by other Old World armies released thus far, these factions will feature a combination of new and returning miniatures. Notably, a wood elf beast pack, originally launched in 1987, is among the vintage items slated for re-release.

Personal Enthusiasm for New Releases

Despite already possessing a Tomb Kings army and a collection of classic High Elves, the temptation to further expand my collection is significant. Having recently acquired a box of Free Company Militia for use in Mordheim, Games Workshop’s discontinued skirmish game where these figures originated, the prospect of purchasing at least a selection of Cathay miniatures is becoming increasingly compelling.