Warhammer Heroes returns with Strike Force Variel, a new wave of blind-box Dark Angels minis. Collect seven characters with Kill Team rules in green plastic.
Alright, battle-brothers and hobby butterflies — let’s talk Warhammer Heroes, the blind-buy series that’s been quietly tempting both collectors and newcomers alike. The latest wave has just been announced, and this time it’s not your usual Ultramarines in blue. Nope, we’re diving into the shadows with Strike Force Variel, a cadre of Dark Angels stepping out from the mist and onto shelves later this year.
Who Are Strike Force Variel?
These aren’t just your average Marines with a plasma gun and a stern jawline. Strike Force Variel brings together seven different specialists from the First Legion, each represented as a unique plastic miniature. They’re easy to assemble — no glue, no tools, just that sweet click-fit magic — and they come cast in iconic Dark Angels green.
Here’s the known lineup:
- Sternguard Sergeant Ramus – A stoic commander type, probably quoting Unremembered Empire as he reloads.
- Infernus Marine Haroth – Fire. Always fire. Expect big flames and bigger area denial.
- Assault Intercessor Maphael – Your close-combat crowd-pleaser.
- Infiltrator Belath – Stealth, tech, and probably a slightly smug expression.
- Intercessor Zeradim – The bread-and-butter bolt rifle guy with maybe a twist.
- Reiver Nahrden – Fear and skull masks. You know the type.
There’s also a mysterious lieutenant we haven’t seen yet — and let’s be honest, we’re hoping for a hooded, winged-helm, plasma-pistol-wielding menace with secrets.
Designed for New Players… but Also Collectors
Every box comes with a Kill Team data card in three languages (English, German, Japanese), containing weapon profiles, stats, and a strategy ploy. Put them together and you’ve got a streamlined, mini Kill Team that’s plug-and-play ready. This isn’t a replacement for full-fat competitive Kill Team, but it’s a great way to get your feet wet — or rope a friend in without overwhelming them.
Even better? You can mix and match these against any other Warhammer Heroes team. So yes, your goofy collection of blind-buy Marines from wave one can face off against these sinister Dark Angels in a mini Killzone showdown.
The Catch: Blind Box Roulette
Each display unit has eight blind boxes, but since there are only seven unique minis, getting a full set isn’t guaranteed. This is the classic “gotta catch ‘em all” pain we collectors know too well. Still, that little hit of dopamine when you crack open a new box? It’s real.
Also, just to be clear — these are retail exclusives. You’ll need to hunt them down in select stores when they drop later this year. No pre-order button online, which means brick-and-mortar retailers are going to be your best bet.
Final Thoughts: Mysterious Marines for Hobby and Play
Strike Force Variel looks like a solid evolution of the Warhammer Heroes line: visually striking, thematically cool, and hobbyist-friendly. Whether you’re a hardcore Dark Angels fan, a curious new player, or a collector with a shrine to discontinued limited-run plastic, these are worth watching.
Plus, green plastic? That’s basically half the painting done for you. Just don’t tell the Blood Angels players.
And remember, Frontline Gaming sells gaming products at a discount, every day in their webcart!
