This Year’s Top Warhammer 40K Expansion Sells Out Online

In the Warhammer 40K universe, human society doesn’t solely revolve around its hyper-militarized, authoritarian elements. Beyond the Space Marines and Martian cyborgs, there’s a significant theocratic influence. This powerful church-like entity worships the Emperor of Mankind as a god, despite his clear instructions against it. Inside the Blood and Zeal box, there’s a clear split: one half contains fanatical zealots, devoted to a misguided belief, holding the sway over numerous civilians in the 41st millennium. The other half? Well, they’re the minions of Chaos.

Known formally as the Ecclesiarchy, the Empire’s theocratic branch is one of the most insidious aspects of the 40K universe. It sustains itself by a mantra that the Emperor himself openly rejected, highlighting a fiction where some saw an opportunity to wield power through the Emperor’s cult. This cult serves as a tool for control, suppressing the masses with religious fervor. Though it doesn’t originate humanity’s darkest tendencies like xenophobia or mob violence, it certainly doesn’t stand against them. Instead, it embraces the violence and fear, using them as integral pieces of the Imperium’s structure. The newly released miniatures now give a tangible face to these sinister elements.

Described as the most unthinking zealots in the cosmos, it’s almost fitting they are grouped with the chaotic forces. The accompanying fiction reveals the Ecclesiarchy’s massive scale, boasting possibly more members than the iconic Space Marines or even the vast Imperial Guard. Their sheer numbers speak to their pervasive influence and fanaticism.

That said, these zealots act as a crucial part of the societal framework holding the Imperium of Mankind together. Without their fierce loyalty and aggression, the galaxy’s hostile forces, be they Chaos, Tyranids, or Orks, might quickly engulf humanity. Thus, these figures aren’t just mere game pieces; they serve as a reminder of the extreme ideology that keeps the Imperium’s fragile society from disintegrating.

The Blood and Zeal set enriches the narrative of the Warhammer 40K world and adds depth to games like Kill Team. Beyond that, it seamlessly integrates into the broader tabletop scene, making its presence felt in games like Necromunda, Warhammer 40,000, and even role-playing titles like Imperium Maledictum.

While I personally find these characters absolutely detestable, there’s a satisfaction in having them as tangible miniatures. I suggest acquiring them, if only to confront their menacing little gazes firsthand.