Warhammer: The Horus Heresy – Saturnine Box Set Unveiled with New Rules and Models
May 29th 2025

Warhammer: The Horus Heresy—Saturnine Box Set Unveiled with New Rules and Models
Games Workshop has officially unveiled Saturnine, the latest launch set for Warhammer: The Horus Heresy. This release marks the beginning of the third edition of the iconic tabletop wargame. With an exciting lineup of new miniatures, updated rules, and expanded lore, Saturnine is a must-have for both long-time veterans and new players entering the grimdark world of the Age of Darkness.
Whether you're a loyalist or a traitor, this release empowers you to command your Legion like never before, thanks to reworked army selection rules and stunning new plastic kits.
Discover everything you need to know about the Saturnine launch box for Warhammer: The Horus Heresy. Explore new models, refined game mechanics, updated army rules, and future expansions. Learn how this third edition revitalizes the Age of Darkness experience with improved accessibility and epic narrative possibilities.
The Saturnine Launch Set: What’s Inside?
The Saturnine box is a comprehensive starter force packed with high-detail miniatures and essential game components:
- Saturnine Terminators – Elite units clad in heavy armour, ideal for breaching fortified positions.
- Saturnine Dreadnought – A new centerpiece model offering heavy firepower and devastating melee capabilities.
- MkII Crusade Armour Space Marines – Classic and versatile infantry that form the core of any Legion.
- Araknae Quad Accelerator Platform – A formidable heavy support unit delivering sustained firepower.
This box provides a strong foundation for starting a new Space Marine Legion force or expanding an existing one.
What’s New in the Third Edition?
The third edition of The Horus Heresy: Age of Darkness offers meaningful refinements while preserving the tactical depth that fans love. The new rulebook introduces:
- Challenge Gambits – Strategic duels and narrative-driven confrontations.
- Tactical Status – Improved battlefield conditions tracking.
- Flexible Army Selection – Less restrictive force organization charts allow for more thematic and diverse armies.
The core system remains familiar, with subtle but impactful updates enhancing the overall play experience.
Can I Use My Existing Army and Books?
✔ Existing Armies:
Yes! Your current Horus Heresy miniatures are fully compatible with the new edition. Even better, the more lenient army building rules make it easier to create thematic forces and experiment with new tactics.
✖ Older Rulebooks:
The older edition rulebooks are no longer compatible mechanically, but they still offer valuable lore and visual inspiration. Fresh supplements, including five new Liber army books and a campaign book focusing on Isstvan V, will provide all the updated rules and background content you need.
Campaign Content & Language Support
The Age of Darkness Journals debut with this edition, delivering detailed narrative scenarios and legendary campaign settings like the infamous Dropsite Massacre.
- Core Rulebook and Liber Books: Available in English, French, and German.
- Journals: English with rules supplements downloadable in French and German.
Compatibility Across Legions
All models in the Saturnine box are usable across any of the 18 Space Marine Legions. New rules also permit allied units, meaning you can incorporate these powerful models into other faction forces like the Solar Auxilia.
New Plastic Models and Resin-to-Plastic Transition
Games Workshop is accelerating the transition from resin to plastic. Expect:
- Classic miniatures like MkII Crusade Armour in plastic.
- Brand-new units never seen before.
- Larger kits and vehicles—did someone say a new tank?
This shift ensures easier access and assembly for players, along with expanded customization possibilities.
Future Support for All Armies
- Liber Books at Launch: Loyalist and Traitor Legions, Mechanicum, Knights and Titans, Solar Auxilia.
- Talons of the Emperor: A dedicated Liber coming soon, with interim free downloadable rules.
- Legacy PDFs: To support older factions and classic units.
Conclusion
The Saturnine box for Warhammer: The Horus Heresy marks an exciting evolution of one of the most beloved systems in tabletop gaming. With a careful balance of nostalgic familiarity and innovative upgrades, this third edition is designed to welcome both seasoned warlords and new commanders into the Age of Darkness.
Get ready to muster your Legion, dive into epic campaigns, and shape the fate of the galaxy!









