The tabletop gaming world received a significant injection of excitement this weekend as Games Workshop unveiled a host of new models, rules updates, and storyline teases during the Warhammer Preview Present at AdeptiCon 2026. The annual event, held in Rosemont, Illinois, is a cornerstone for fans of Warhammer 40,000, Age of Sigmar, and other Games Workshop properties, and this year’s presentation didn’t disappoint. From a revamped Space Marine chapter to the looming threat in the Mortal Realms, the show offered a glimpse into the future of these expansive universes. The core focus of the reveals centered around bolstering existing armies and introducing narrative threads that promise compelling campaigns for players.
One of the biggest announcements revolved around the Salamanders Space Marine chapter. Long a favorite among Warhammer 40,000 players for their noble ethos and fiery aesthetic, the Salamanders are receiving a full refresh, including new miniatures designed by the team behind the successful Primaris Space Marines. The models showcased a significant leap in detail, emphasizing the chapter’s volcanic origins with intricate armor designs and weapon embellishments. Games Workshop as well revealed a new codex for the Salamanders, promising updated rules and lore that will further define their role on the battlefield. This update is particularly welcome as the Salamanders have been due for a revision for some time, and the community has eagerly anticipated seeing them brought up to date with the latest Warhammer 40,000 standards.
New Forces Emerge in the Mortal Realms
The Age of Sigmar universe also received substantial attention. A new faction, the “Kharadron Overlords Sky-Barons,” was unveiled, expanding the already diverse roster of armies in the Mortal Realms. These airship-faring dwarves, known for their mercantile prowess and technological ingenuity, are receiving a wave of new models, including heavily armed airships and individual Kharadron pilots. The miniatures showcase a steampunk aesthetic, complete with intricate gears, brass plating, and billowing sails. According to Games Workshop, the Sky-Barons will introduce new tactical options to the game, focusing on aerial superiority and ranged firepower. The Kharadron Overlords have proven popular since their introduction, and this expansion is expected to further solidify their position as a competitive force.
Beyond the new faction, Age of Sigmar players can look forward to a major narrative campaign centered around the “Realm of Ghyran,” the Realm of Life. Teasers revealed a growing corruption spreading through Ghyran, threatening to overwhelm its natural defenses. This campaign will likely involve a series of linked battles and story-driven scenarios, offering players a chance to participate in a larger narrative. The campaign is expected to launch alongside a new wave of miniatures representing both the forces defending Ghyran and the encroaching corruption. Details on the specific antagonists remain scarce, but speculation is rife within the community.
Beyond the Battlefield: New Board Games and Expansions
The Warhammer Preview Show wasn’t solely focused on the core tabletop games. Several new board game announcements were made, including an expansion for “Warhammer 40,000: Imperium,” a cooperative board game where players take on the roles of Imperial agents defending humanity against the forces of Chaos. The expansion, titled “Emperor’s Light,” will introduce new scenarios, enemies, and characters, adding further depth to the gameplay experience. Warhammer Community also highlighted a new standalone board game set in the Age of Sigmar universe, details of which are still under wraps, but promised a unique gameplay experience distinct from existing Warhammer board games.
For fans of Kill Team, the skirmish game set within the Warhammer 40,000 universe, a new expansion focusing on the Adeptus Mechanicus was revealed. The expansion will introduce a new Kill Team roster comprised of Tech-Priests, Servitors, and other robotic units, offering a unique playstyle centered around technological manipulation and ranged firepower. The miniatures showcased a high level of detail, reflecting the Adeptus Mechanicus’ obsession with machinery, and cybernetics. The expansion is expected to launch later this year, providing Kill Team players with a fresh set of tactical challenges.
A Look at the Future of Warhammer
Games Workshop also provided a brief glimpse into future projects, hinting at a potential revamp of the Necrons in Warhammer 40,000. While no specific details were revealed, the teaser image showcased a new Necron warrior design, suggesting a more dynamic and menacing aesthetic. The Necrons, an ancient race of robotic beings, have been a staple of the Warhammer 40,000 universe for decades, and a revamp could breathe new life into the faction. The company also confirmed ongoing support for existing games, with plans for new codexes, expansions, and narrative campaigns throughout 2026 and beyond.
The Warhammer Preview Show at AdeptiCon 2026 served as a powerful reminder of the enduring popularity of Games Workshop’s intellectual property. The reveals demonstrate a commitment to both expanding existing universes and introducing new experiences for players. The focus on detailed miniatures, compelling narratives, and diverse gameplay options ensures that Warhammer will continue to captivate fans for years to come. For those eager to stay up-to-date on all things Warhammer, the official Warhammer Community website remains the primary source for news, updates, and previews.
The next major checkpoint for Warhammer fans will be the release of the new Salamanders codex, currently slated for a late-summer launch. Keep an eye on Warhammer Community for further details and pre-order information. We encourage readers to share their thoughts on the AdeptiCon reveals in the comments below and to spread the word about these exciting developments.
