If you love staring at perfect edge highlights, this recap is for you. Golden Demon 2025 at SPIEL Essen just showed off the second wave of finalists, and it is packed with inspiration fuel.
This leg of the competition pulled in hobbyists from all over, each chasing that elusive Slayer Sword glory. However, the article focuses on the finalists who earned their pins and a shot at trophies. Additionally, it teases future events, so this is not just nostalgia, it is hype-building too.
How Golden Demon At SPIEL Essen Was Judged
Golden Demon at Essen followed the usual pin system: Notable, Commended, and then Finalist at the top of the stack. Finalist pins are the serious business ones, since those minis are in contention for trophies. Moreover, the article reminds readers that you can look back at all the winners and the Slayer Sword entry from this event. So if you want to study what “top tier” really looks like, those galleries are your homework.
Finalists Across The Mortal Realms, The Old World, And Beyond
The article then walks through the remaining finalist categories from this second leg. Warhammer Age of Sigmar gets love in both Single Miniature and Large Miniature or War Machine, which showcases everything from solo heroes to big centerpieces.
Additionally, The Old World has its own category, celebrating classic fantasy vibes with modern paint standards.
Middle earth Strategy Battle Game features some gorgeous cinematic pieces, while Blood Bowl brings that chaotic sports energy to the cabinet.
Furthermore, the Duel category highlights tiny dioramas full of storytelling, and Youngbloods shines a spotlight on rising painters who are already scarily good.
Shout Outs For The Unseen Heroes
Essen received hundreds of entries, so even the Warhammer team could not photograph everything. Consequently, a few painters who earned Finalist pins did not make it into the image galleries. The article still calls them out by name, which feels very respectful to the work put in. Additionally, it highlights Théodore Auclair for Warhammer 40,000 Single Miniature, Lukas Wiggering for Warhammer 40,000 Unit or Kill Team, and Fabian Piquart for Warhammer Age of Sigmar Single Miniature. It also thanks Wojciech Gregorczyk and Angelo Di Chello for their Age of Sigmar Unit, Warcry Warband, or Underworlds Warband entries. So even if their models are not on screen, their efforts are clearly recognised.
Looking Ahead To Golden Demon 2026
Finally, the article closes by looking forward rather than just admiring finished paint jobs. We are told that information on Golden Demon 2026 will land on Warhammer Community before the year ends. Moreover, that gives everyone time to start scheming entries, planning display bases, and panic practicing freehand. Overall, this recap feels like both a celebration of what just happened and a gentle push to pick up your brush for the next season.
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