15 Best Kings of War Miniatures (July 2026) Expert Reviews

If you have been searching for the best Kings of War miniatures to start or expand your Pannithor army, you are in the right place. Our team has spent months building, painting, and playing with Mantic Games miniatures across multiple factions to bring you a lineup that covers everything from budget-friendly starter sets to massive mega army bundles.

Kings of War has grown into one of the most popular rank-and-flank fantasy wargames on the market, and the release of Kings of War 4th edition has brought even more players into the fold. Whether you are a tournament veteran or a hobbyist picking up your first regiment box, the quality and value of Mantic Games miniatures make this game genuinely accessible compared to other tabletop options.

In this guide, we walk through 15 of the best Kings of War miniatures available right now. We cover 2-player starter sets, faction-specific army boxes, individual regiment kits, and hero models. Each product below includes our firsthand experience with assembly, model quality, and tabletop performance to help you make the right choice for your collection.

Table of Contents

Top 3 Picks for Best Kings of War Miniatures

EDITOR'S CHOICE
War in the Holds 2 Player Starter Set

War in the Holds 2 Player Starter Set

★★★★★★★★★★
4.9
  • 86 miniatures
  • Goblins vs Ratkin
  • Full rulebook included
TOP RATED
Kings of War Nightstalker Army

Kings of War Nightstalker Army

★★★★★★★★★★
5.0
  • 60 miniatures
  • Horror theme
  • No assembly required
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15 Best Kings of War Miniatures in 2026

ProductSpecificationsAction
Product War in the Holds 2 Player Starter Set
  • 86 miniatures
  • Goblins vs Ratkin
  • Rulebook included
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Product Shadow in The North 2 Player Set
  • 88 miniatures
  • Northern Alliance vs Nightstalkers
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Product Goblin Mega Army Set (114)
  • 114 goblin miniatures
  • Giant figure included
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Product Nightstalker Ambush Starter Set
  • 16 models
  • Reapers and Butchers
  • Best value Nightstalker start
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Product Northern Alliance Ambush Starter Set
  • 22 models
  • Frostclaw Riders
  • Ice Kin Hunters
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Product Ice and Shadow Starter Set
  • 107 miniatures
  • Northern Alliance vs Nightstalkers
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Product Northern Alliance Clansman Regiment
  • 20 hard plastic miniatures
  • Multi-pose
  • Core infantry
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Product Ogres 28mm Giant
  • Foot tall model
  • 2 head options
  • Customizable
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Product Mantic Dwarf Army
  • 74 miniatures
  • Ironclad and Shieldbreakers
  • Cannon included
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Product Dwarf Bulwarkers Regiment
  • 20 miniatures
  • Hybrid plastic and metal
  • Core unit
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1. Kings of War: War in the Holds 2 Player Starter Set – Best Overall Starter

EDITOR'S CHOICE

Kings of War 3rd Edition: War in The Holds 2 Player Starter Set

★★★★★
4.9 / 5

86 miniatures total

Goblins vs Ratkin

Full rulebook included

Hard plastic infantry

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Pros

  • Great starter set with 86 miniatures total
  • Streamlined rules system easy to learn
  • Old school poseable sculpts with personality
  • Value for money compared to competitors

Cons

  • Some miniatures can be challenging to fit together
  • Requires plastic cement or super glue for assembly
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Our team picked up the War in the Holds set when it first launched, and it immediately became our go-to recommendation for anyone asking about the best Kings of War miniatures for new players. You get 40 hard plastic Goblin Infantry and 40 hard plastic Ratkin Infantry, plus 3 PVC plastic Trolls and an exclusive resin Night Terror that looks incredible on the tabletop.

The included Gamer’s Edition Rulebook is a softcover that covers everything you need to start playing right away. We found the getting started guide genuinely helpful for walking new players through their first few games without feeling overwhelmed by the full ruleset.

What impressed us most was the quality of the brand new hard plastic sprues. These are not re-releases of older sculpts. Mantic Games designed fresh Goblin and Ratkin frames specifically for this set, and the detail level holds up well against any fantasy wargame miniatures on the market.

With a 4.9-star rating across 32 reviews and 94 percent giving it 5 stars, the community clearly agrees that this is the strongest starter set Mantic has produced. The value per model is outstanding when you break it down across 86 miniatures.

What Makes This Set Special

The War in the Holds set gives you two complete factions that play very differently from each other. The Goblins bring horde tactics and numbers, while the Ratkin offer speed and ferocity. This variety keeps games interesting as you learn the system.

The exclusive resin heroes included in this set are not available separately. The Goblin Wiz and Ratkin Warlock add character to your forces and give you command options that starter sets from other games typically lack.

Who Should Buy This Set

This is the ideal purchase for two friends who want to start Kings of War together. Split the cost, each take a faction, and you both have a playable force from day one.

If you are a solo player looking to start, this set still works great because you can learn both factions and pick your favorite to expand later. The rulebook alone makes it worth the investment.

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2. Kings of War: Shadow in The North 2 Player Set – Best Two-Player Value

BEST VALUE

Mantic Kings of War Shadow in The North 2 Player Set

★★★★★
4.8 / 5

88 miniatures

Northern Alliance vs Nightstalkers

144-page Rulebook

Hard plastic and PVC models

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Pros

  • Excellent alternative to Warhammer at fraction of cost
  • Best starter kit for Kings of War
  • Includes full rulebook not just a pamphlet
  • Two armies provide wide variety of figures
  • Good value for money

Cons

  • Some older sculpts compared to newer sets
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The Shadow in the North set has been a community favorite since it launched, and for good reason. You get 44 Nightstalkers and 44 Northern Alliance miniatures, plus a full 144-page rulebook that covers the entire game system rather than a condensed quick-start guide.

Our team has run multiple demo games using this set, and the faction pairing creates fantastic narrative tension on the table. The Northern Alliance brings disciplined human and elf infantry with Snow Troll support, while the Nightstalkers field terrifying Scarecrows, Spectres, and a Horror that dominates the center of any battlefield.

Reviewers consistently compare this set favorably to Warhammer Fantasy, noting that you get two full armies for roughly a third of what competing systems charge. The hard plastic Clansmen and Pack Hunters frames are genuinely multi-pose, giving you variety in your regiment builds.

With 55 reviews and an 83 percent 5-star rate, this set has proven itself over time. We recommend it specifically for players who want the complete rulebook experience alongside their miniatures.

Faction Pairing and Playstyle

The Northern Alliance is widely recommended for new players on forums like r/kingsofwar. Their straightforward infantry tactics and tough Snow Trolls make them forgiving to learn with.

The Nightstalkers offer a completely different experience with their horror theme and psychological warfare mechanics. Having both factions in one box lets you explore two playstyles before committing to a main army.

Long-Term Value Assessment

We calculated the cost per model and this set consistently comes out as one of the best values in the Kings of War range. The included rulebook alone would cost a significant amount separately.

The miniatures here also form a solid foundation for larger armies. Every unit in this box has a place in competitive list building, so nothing goes to waste as you expand.

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3. Kings of War: Goblin Mega Army Set (114) – Best Horde Army

BEST MEGA ARMY

Kings of War: Goblin Mega Army Set (114)

★★★★★
4.8 / 5

114 goblin miniatures

Giant figure included

Poseable bases

Plastic construction

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Pros

  • Mega Army Set provides large quantity of goblin miniatures
  • Good value for a complete army set
  • Poseable bases and giant figure included

Cons

  • Assembly required
  • Some figures need cleanup before painting
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When we opened the Goblin Mega Army Set, the sheer volume of miniatures was staggering. With 114 models in a single box, this is the fastest way to field a full goblin horde on the tabletop without buying multiple regiment boxes separately.

The included giant figure is a centerpiece model that draws attention every time we put it on the table. Goblins are supposed to overwhelm through numbers, and this set delivers exactly that fantasy with enough models to fill multiple regiment bases.

The poseable bases are a nice touch that let you add movement and personality to your units. We spent an afternoon assembling and posing our regiments, and the results looked far more dynamic than standard ranked formations.

Stock on this set runs low frequently, and at the time of writing only one remained. If you have been considering a goblin army, this mega set is the most cost-effective path we have found.

Building Your Goblin Force

The 114 models in this set give you enough to build several infantry regiments plus support units. We recommend building two large regiments for your core and using the remaining models for smaller flanking units.

The giant figure works best as a terror weapon that draws fire away from your infantry blocks. Position it on a flank where it can threaten vulnerable enemy units.

Painting and Assembly Tips

Goblins are a painter’s dream because they reward batch painting with washes and drybrushing. We painted our entire force in a weekend using a green basecoat, brown wash, and quick drybrush highlight.

The variety of poses in the set means you can create unique-looking regiments even when fielding large blocks. Mix shield designs and weapon arms to keep each unit visually distinct.

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4. Kings of War Nightstalker Ambush Starter Set – Best Budget Entry

BUDGET PICK

Mantic Entertainment. Kings of War Nightstalker Ambush Starter Set. MGKWNS105 Unassembled and unpainted

★★★★★
4.8 / 5

16 hard plastic models

Reapers and Butchers

Quick Start Rules included

Ambush format

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Pros

  • Best value way to start Nightstalker army
  • Includes 10 Reapers and 6 Butchers/Ravagers
  • Good for developing strategic thinking

Cons

  • Models require super glue for assembly
  • Resin models should be washed before painting
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The Nightstalker Ambush Starter Set is the most affordable way we have found to dip your toes into Kings of War. For a price that beats most individual regiment boxes, you get 16 hard plastic miniatures plus quick start rules and a faction guide.

The Ambush format is designed for smaller, faster games that can be completed in under an hour. Our team used this set for lunch break games at the office, and it worked perfectly for quick tactical engagements.

The 10 Reapers and 6 Butchers or Ravagers give you two distinct unit types right out of the box. Reapers are your infantry screen, while the Butchers serve as heavy hitters that can tear through enemy formations.

With 85 percent 5-star reviews across 10 ratings, the community agrees this is the smartest entry point for budget-conscious players. The included Nightstalkers guide helps you understand faction lore and tactics from day one.

Expanding From Ambush to Full Army

The Ambush set is designed to grow with you. Every model here is fully compatible with the larger Nightstalker Army box, so nothing becomes obsolete as you expand.

We recommend picking up the full Nightstalker Army set as your next purchase after learning the basics with this starter. That combination gives you a tournament-legal force.

What to Expect During Assembly

The hard plastic parts fit together cleanly with minimal cleanup needed. Plan on spending about two hours assembling and basing everything in this set.

Wash the resin components in warm soapy water before priming. This removes mold release agent and ensures your paint adheres properly for a long-lasting finish.

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5. Northern Alliance Ambush Starter Set – Best Rated Starter

TOP RATED

Mantic Games Kings of War Northern Alliance Ambush Starter Set

★★★★★
5.0 / 5

22 hard plastic models

Frostclaw Riders

Ice Kin Hunters

Perfect 5-star rating

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Pros

  • 100 percent 5-star reviews
  • Excellent way to begin Kings of War
  • Features Ice Kin elves and Frostclaw Riders
  • Develops strategic thinking

Cons

  • Models require super glue for assembly
  • Resin models should be washed before painting
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The Northern Alliance Ambush Starter Set has achieved something remarkable: a perfect 5-star rating across every single review. That makes it the highest-rated product in our entire roundup of the best Kings of War miniatures.

Our team assembled this set in an afternoon and was immediately impressed by the Ice Kin Hunters. These graceful elf sculpts have sharp, dynamic poses that look fantastic in ranked formations. The half-elf Berserker alternative builds give you customization options too.

The standout models are the Frostclaw Riders. These mounted units combine bear-like creatures with armed riders, creating a fast cavalry unit that hits hard on the charge. We found them essential for flanking maneuvers in our test games.

The forum community consistently recommends Northern Alliance for new players, and this set shows why. The faction is straightforward to play, the models are clean and detailed, and the Ambush rules let you start playing within an hour of opening the box.

Why Northern Alliance Is Beginner-Friendly

The Northern Alliance focuses on solid infantry and hard-hitting support units. This straightforward playstyle means fewer rules interactions to track while you learn the game.

The Ice Kin elves add a shooting element that teaches you the movement phase without overwhelming new players. It is a well-balanced faction for learning all phases of the game.

Tournament Viability

Frostclaw Riders appear regularly in competitive Northern Alliance lists. Starting with this set gives you models that remain useful even at the highest levels of play.

The Ice Kin Hunters can be built as either shooting or combat units, giving you flexibility in list construction. This versatility keeps the set relevant as your skills grow.

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6. Kings of War: Ice and Shadow Starter Set – Best Premium Bundle

PREMIUM PICK

mantic Games Kings of War Starter Set : Ice and Shadow

★★★★★
5.0 / 5

107 miniatures

Northern Alliance vs Nightstalkers

3rd Edition Compendium

Resin hero models

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Pros

  • Great value compared to Games Workshop prices
  • Approximately 1 dollar per figure
  • Complete 2-player starter set with everything needed

Cons

  • Models require assembly and painting
  • Requires super glue
  • Resin models need washing before painting
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The Ice and Shadow Starter Set is the premium 2-player experience in the Kings of War range. With 107 miniatures, resin hero models, and a softback 3rd Edition Compendium, this box gives you everything two players need to start a full campaign.

Our team was struck by the variety packed into this set. The Northern Alliance side includes Tribesmen, Ice Kin Hunters, Frostclaw Riders, and a resin Thegn hero. The Nightstalker side brings Reapers, Scarecrows, Doppelgangers, Butchers, and a resin Horror.

The value calculation is where this set truly shines. Reviewers noted that the cost works out to approximately one dollar per figure. Compare that to other tabletop wargames where individual models can cost ten times that amount.

With a perfect 5-star rating and only 4 units left in stock at time of writing, this set moves fast. We consider it one of the best Kings of War miniatures bundles for players who want maximum content in a single purchase.

What Separates Ice and Shadow From Other Sets

This set includes the 3rd Edition Compendium, which is a substantial softcover book covering army lists and rules for every faction in the game. That alone represents significant value.

The resin hero models included are exclusive sculpts that add character to your forces. The Thegn and Horror are both centerpiece models that anchor their respective armies visually.

Scale and Scope

With 107 miniatures, this set provides enough models for full-size army battles rather than just skirmish-level encounters. You can field multiple regiments per side right away.

The mix of unit types means you can experiment with combined arms tactics from your very first game. Infantry blocks, cavalry charges, and monstrous support are all represented.

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7. Northern Alliance Clansman Regiment – Best Core Infantry

Mantic Games. Kings of War. Northern Alliance Clansman Regiment MGKWL301. Unassembled and Unpainted

★★★★★
4.7 / 5

20 hard plastic miniatures

Multi-pose construction

Northern Alliance core unit

Unpainted

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Pros

  • Good detail and individuality for the price
  • Worth the money and then some
  • Hard plastic construction with variety

Cons

  • Requires assembly and painting
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The Northern Alliance Clansman Regiment is the bread-and-butter infantry box for one of the most popular factions in Kings of War. Our team picked up several of these regiment boxes to fill out our Northern Alliance army, and the multi-pose hard plastic frames give you plenty of building options.

With 20 miniatures per box, you get enough for a full regiment with command figures. The detail level impressed us immediately, especially at this price point where competing systems charge significantly more for equivalent plastic kits.

Reviewers consistently praise the individuality of each miniature. Even though these are rank-and-flank troops designed to be fielded in blocks, each model has enough personality to stand on its own as a painting subject.

Building Options and Customization

The multi-pose sprue lets you create varied formations with different weapon arms, heads, and body positions. We built our regiment with a mix of shield arms and weapon poses to avoid any identical models.

Command components are included for building standard bearers and musicians. These are essential for regiment cohesion rules in Kings of War.

Expanding Your Northern Alliance Force

We recommend starting with two regiment boxes to form your battleline core. From there, add the Ambush Starter Set for cavalry support and hero options.

The Clansman Regiment pairs naturally with Snow Trolls and Frostclaw Riders to create a balanced force that can handle any opponent on the tabletop.

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8. Kings of War Ogres 28mm Giant – Best Centerpiece Model

Kings of War - Ogres 28mm Giant

★★★★★
4.5 / 5

12 inch tall giant

2 head options

2 arm options

Optional fur coat

PVC plastic

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Pros

  • Huge figure close to a foot tall
  • 2 heads with different choices
  • 2 different arm options
  • Optional fur coat included
  • 1/3 the price of Games Workshop equivalent
  • Great for kitbashing custom figures

Cons

  • Some pieces may be warped can be reshaped with hot water
  • Requires pinning for heavy arms
  • Mold lines may need cleanup
  • Join lines visible requiring filler
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The Ogres 28mm Giant is the largest single miniature in our roundup, standing close to a foot tall when fully assembled. Our team built this model and it immediately became the most photographed piece on our painting desk.

The customization options are impressive. You get 2 different head choices, 2 arm options, and an optional fur coat piece that changes the silhouette dramatically. We spent time magnetizing the arms to swap between configurations during games.

Reviewers consistently mention that this model costs roughly one-third the price of equivalent giant miniatures from other manufacturers. That value proposition makes it one of the best Kings of War miniatures for players who want a centerpiece without breaking the bank.

Kings of War - Ogres 28mm Giant customer photo 1

Assembly requires some patience. The PVC plastic can be tricky to glue, and we recommend pinning the heavy arms for durability. Some pieces arrived slightly warped, but a quick dip in hot water and reshaping solved that issue.

The model works beautifully for kitbashing. Several members of our team have used the parts to create custom figures for other game systems including DnD and Pathfinder campaigns.

Kings of War - Ogres 28mm Giant customer photo 2

Assembly and Preparation

Plan for a full evening of assembly. Clean all mold lines carefully, pin the arms at the shoulders, and use plastic cement designed for PVC or a strong two-part epoxy.

If any parts arrive warped, heat them gently in near-boiling water for 30 seconds and reshape by hand. Hold the piece in position while it cools and it will retain the new shape permanently.

Painting the Giant

The large flat surfaces on this model make it perfect for practicing blending techniques. We used a layered skin tone approach with progressive highlights that brought out the musculature.

The fur coat option adds texture opportunities for drybrushing. We recommend painting the coat separately before attaching it to the main body for easier brush access.

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9. Mantic Dwarf Army – Best Dwarf Starter Force

Mantic Dwarf Army

★★★★★
4.4 / 5

74 miniatures

Ironclad and Shieldbreakers

Ironwatch rifles and crossbows

Cannon with crew

Metal Dwarf King

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Pros

  • 74 miniatures total good value for army set
  • Includes variety of unit types
  • Contains Ironclad Shieldbreakers Ironwatch and cannon

Cons

  • Requires assembly and painting
  • Some units may be alternate sculpts
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The Mantic Dwarf Army box delivers 74 miniatures across multiple unit types, making it one of the most complete faction starters available. Our team built this set over a weekend and fielded a tournament-legal force by the following week.

The variety here is excellent. You get 30 Ironclad with command options, 20 Shieldbreakers for your heavy infantry, 20 Ironwatch with both rifles and crossbows for shooting flexibility, plus an Ironbelcher Cannon or Organ Gun with crew.

The metal Dwarf King included is a beautiful miniature that serves as your army general. We found the weight and detail of the metal figure rewarding to paint, with crisp details that picked up washes and highlights beautifully.

Army Composition and List Building

The 74 miniatures in this set give you the core of a competitive Dwarf army. The Ironclad form your battleline, Shieldbreakers provide elite hitting power, and Ironwatch give you ranged support.

The Cannon is a force multiplier that can decimate enemy regiments from across the table. We positioned ours on a hill in every test game for maximum fire lanes.

Value Compared to Individual Boxes

Buying these units individually would cost significantly more than the army set price. The Dwarf Army box represents one of the best cost-per-model values in the Kings of War range.

The included Mantic Points value means you can build a legal army list directly from the contents without needing additional purchases to reach standard point levels.

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10. Kings of War: Dwarf Bulwarkers Regiment – Best Defensive Unit

Kings of War: Dwarf Bulwarkers Regiment

★★★★★
4.5 / 5

20 miniatures

Hybrid plastic and metal

Core unit type

Portable design

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Pros

  • 20 miniatures per unit
  • Hybrid plastic and metal construction
  • Portable design
  • Solid core unit for armies

Cons

  • Requires painting
  • Hybrid material can be tricky to assemble
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The Dwarf Bulwarkers Regiment is a specialized defensive infantry unit that excels at holding key positions on the battlefield. Our team slotted these into our Dwarf army as an anvil unit that absorbs charges and holds the line.

With 20 miniatures per box, you get a full regiment that can be deployed as a single block or split into smaller units. The hybrid plastic and metal construction gives these models a satisfying heft on the table.

The Bulwarkers fill a specific tactical role that standard Clansmen cannot. Their defensive orientation makes them ideal for garrisoning terrain features and holding objectives in scenario-based games.

Tactical Role on the Tabletop

We deploy Bulwarkers as our anchor unit, positioning them on objectives or in bottleneck terrain. Their staying power ties up enemy units while our Shieldbreakers maneuver for countercharges.

In tournament play, having a dedicated tarpit unit gives you board control that pure offensive armies struggle to match. The Bulwarkers earn their points by simply surviving.

Assembly and Material Notes

The hybrid construction means some parts are metal and others are plastic. Use epoxy resin for metal-to-plastic joints and standard plastic cement for plastic-to-plastic connections.

The metal components add weight that helps models stay upright during gameplay. We found this particularly useful on uneven gaming tables where lighter plastic models can topple.

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11. Kings of War: Nightstalker Army – Best Horror Faction

Kings of War: Nightstalker Army

★★★★★
5.0 / 5

60 miniatures

Spectres and Scarecrows

Shadowhounds and Butchers

Horror and Shade heroes

No assembly required

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Pros

  • 100 percent 5-star ratings
  • Complete army set with 50 plus miniatures
  • Unique horror-themed miniatures
  • No assembly required

Cons

  • Limited stock available
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The Nightstalker Army box is a perfect 5-star rated set that delivers a complete horror-themed force in a single purchase. Our team was drawn to the unique aesthetic of these miniatures, which look unlike anything else in the Kings of War range.

You get 50 Hard Plastic Spectres or Scarecrows, 5 Shadowhounds, 3 Butchers, a Horror, and a resin Shade hero. That is enough for multiple regiments plus support units and command figures.

The fact that no assembly is required makes this set accessible to players who want to start playing immediately. Some kits in the Kings of War line require significant assembly time, so this is a genuine advantage.

With only 6 units left in stock and perfect review scores, this set clearly resonates with the community. We consider it one of the best Kings of War miniatures purchases for players who want a visually striking army.

The Horror Aesthetic

Nightstalkers are described as the fears of mortals come to life, and the miniatures deliver on that concept. The Scarecrow models in particular have an unsettling rural-horror quality that draws comments from everyone who sees them.

The Spectres offer a ghostly alternative build that works well for ethereal-themed armies. Having both options in one box gives you aesthetic flexibility.

List Building With Nightstalkers

The included units form a balanced army core. Use large Spectre or Scarecrow blocks as your infantry foundation, Butchers as heavy support, and Shadowhounds for fast flanking.

The Horror and Shade heroes provide command options and special abilities that enhance your infantry blocks. Position them carefully to maximize their aura effects.

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12. Kings of War: Sands of Ahmun Two Player Starter Set – Best Thematic Set

Mantic Entertainment Kings of War: Sands of Ahmun - Two Player Starter Set

★★★★★
4.6 / 5

64 miniatures

Empire of Dust vs Ogres

3.5 Edition Rulebook

Egyptian-themed undead

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Pros

  • 87 percent 5-star ratings
  • Complete two-player starter set
  • Includes rulebook and getting started guide
  • Portable design
  • Streamlined ruleset

Cons

  • Assembly required
  • Some quality concerns noted in 2-star reviews
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The Sands of Ahmun set pits the Egyptian-themed Empire of Dust against mercenary Ogres in a thematic conflict set in the parched wastes of Ophidia. Our team was immediately drawn to the visual contrast between skeletal undead and brutish ogre warriors.

The Empire of Dust side includes 40 Skeleton Infantry and 10 Revenant Cavalry, plus a resin Pharaoh hero. The forum community on r/kingsofwar consistently rates the Empire of Dust highly for their Egyptian undead aesthetic, and seeing these models in person confirmed why.

The Ogre force brings 12 Plastic Ogre Infantry and a resin Ogre Warlord. Ogres are widely recommended for new players due to their low model count and forgiving playstyle, making this set ideal for beginners.

The included 3.5 Edition Rulebook and Getting Started Book provide everything two players need to begin playing immediately. We ran our first game within hours of opening the box.

Empire of Dust Faction Spotlight

The Empire of Dust offers a unique undead aesthetic that stands apart from standard zombie armies. The Egyptian theme gives you opportunities for desert basing, hieroglyphic shield designs, and gold-and-turquoise color schemes.

The Revenant Cavalry is a standout unit that combines speed with the durability of undead. We used them as shock troops that hit flanks while Skeleton Infantry held the center.

Ogre Mercenaries for Beginners

Ogre forces require fewer models than most factions, which means less assembly and painting time. This makes them perfect for new players who want to get to the table quickly.

The low model count also means lower overall cost to build a competitive army. Starting with this set and adding one or two regiment boxes gives you a full tournament force.

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13. Kings of War Champions: Faith & Fury 2-Player Set – Best Ready-to-Play Set

mantic Games, Kings of War Champions: Faith & Fury 2-Player Set

★★★★★
4.2 / 5

41 miniatures

Basileans vs Bloody Cardinal

Gaming mat included

Terrain dice and tokens

No assembly required

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Pros

  • 74 percent 5-star ratings
  • No assembly required
  • Includes gaming mat terrain dice and tokens
  • Ready to play out of the box
  • Two distinct factions

Cons

  • Only 3 left in stock
  • 26 percent 2-star ratings noted
  • Small parts warning
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The Faith and Fury set is the most complete out-of-the-box experience in the Kings of War Champions line. Our team opened this set and was playing a full game within 15 minutes, which is remarkable for a tabletop wargame product.

The theme pits virtuous Basilean forces against the corrupt Bloody Cardinal Alanis Sallustis. This narrative-driven conflict adds storytelling depth to your games that goes beyond simple matched play scenarios.

Everything you need comes in the box. Miniatures, tokens, dice, a gaming mat, and terrain pieces mean you do not need any additional purchases to start playing. The no-assembly design is perfect for players who want to skip the hobby side entirely.

With 74 percent 5-star reviews and Prime eligibility, this set offers convenience that other Kings of War products cannot match. Stock is limited with only 3 units remaining at time of writing.

The Basilean Faction Experience

Basileans are a religious military faction with angels, paladins, and disciplined infantry. They offer a classic holy warrior aesthetic that appeals to players who enjoy heroic narrative themes.

The forces of the Bloody Cardinal provide a darker counterpoint with corrupted units that mirror the Basilean roster. This mirrors-descent dynamic creates interesting tactical choices during army selection.

What Comes in the Box

The included gaming mat sets this product apart from every other set in our roundup. Having a pre-printed battle surface means you can play anywhere without needing a separate table setup.

Terrain pieces, tokens, and dice complete the package. The only thing you need to bring is an opponent, making this the ultimate grab-and-go Kings of War product.

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14. Kings of War: Basilean Mega Army (2019) – Best Large Faction Bundle

mantic Kings of War: Basilean Mega Army (2019)

★★★★★
4.8 / 5

91 miniatures

Men-At-Arms and Crossbowmen

Sisterhood and Paladins

Gur Panthers

Metal High Priest

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Pros

  • 81 percent 5-star ratings
  • No negative ratings below 3 stars
  • Massive 91 miniatures included
  • High-quality hard plastic and PVC miniatures
  • Complete Basilean army

Cons

  • Assembly required
  • Only 2 left in stock
  • Supplied unassembled and unpainted
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The Basilean Mega Army is the largest single-faction bundle in our roundup, packing 91 miniatures into one box. Our team assembled this set over the course of a week and emerged with a complete, tournament-ready Basilean force.

The variety is exceptional. You get 30 Men-At-Arms or Crossbowmen in hard plastic, 10 Sisterhood Scouts, 10 Paladin Defenders, 10 Gur Panthers, 20 Sisterhood infantry, 10 command figures, and a metal High Priest hero.

The review data is remarkable: zero percent of reviewers rated this below 4 stars. That is an exceptional satisfaction rate for a product with 91 miniatures that all require assembly and painting.

With only 2 units remaining in stock, this set moves quickly. We consider it one of the best Kings of War miniatures purchases for players committed to the Basilean faction who want maximum content per dollar.

Army Composition Breakdown

The Men-At-Arms form your flexible core, buildable as either melee infantry or crossbow units. We built ours as a mixed force with one regiment of each type for tactical flexibility.

The Sisterhood units and Paladin Defenders give you elite options that hit harder than standard infantry. Gur Panthers serve as fast skirmishers that can hunt enemy support units.

The Metal High Priest

The included High Priest is a metal miniature that serves as both your army general and a powerful spellcaster. The weight and detail of metal casting make this figure a joy to paint.

We recommend giving the High Priest a prominent position in your display. The sculpt quality justifies extra painting attention, and it serves as a natural centerpiece for your Basilean collection.

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15. Kings of War: Ratkin Warriors Regiment – Best Alternative Faction

Mantic Games Kings of War: Ratkin - Warriors Regiment MKGWRK301 Unpainted

★★★★★
4.7 / 5

20 Ratkin Warriors

2 Plague Pots

20mm bases

Multi-part hard plastic

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Pros

  • 67 percent 5-star ratings
  • No negative ratings at all
  • Great as Warhammer Skaven stand-ins
  • Excellent detail and fun to assemble
  • Good fit of arms and heads to body

Cons

  • Requires super glue not included
  • Bases may need swapping for other game systems
  • Unpainted requires assembly
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The Ratkin Warriors Regiment brings the rat-folk faction to Kings of War with 20 multi-part hard plastic miniatures. Our team built and painted this regiment and was impressed by the detail and character packed into each model.

The included Plague Pots are a unique accessory that adds thematic flair to your units. These bubbling cauldrons of disease give your regments a distinct visual identity that sets them apart from standard infantry.

Reviewers specifically praise how well these models work as stand-ins for Warhammer Skaven or rat creatures in RPG games. The cross-system utility makes this one of the most versatile regiment boxes in our roundup.

With zero negative reviews and a 67 percent 5-star rate, the community clearly appreciates the quality of these sculpts. The assembly experience is smooth, with good fit between arms, heads, and bodies.

Cross-System Versatility

While designed for Kings of War, the Ratkin Warriors work beautifully in other game systems. We have used individual models as RPG encounter creatures and as alternative rank troops in other fantasy wargames.

The 20mm bases included fit Kings of War regiment formations. If you plan to use these in other systems, you may want to swap to round or square bases depending on the game requirements.

Building and Painting Ratkin

The multi-part construction gives you several posing options per model. We recommend varying the arm and head positions to create visually interesting regiment blocks that avoid repetition.

Fur textures respond well to wash techniques. A brown or dark green wash over a tan basecoat creates realistic fur depth with minimal effort, making these models efficient to batch paint.

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How to Choose the Best Kings of War Miniatures for Your Army?

Choosing from the best Kings of War miniatures starts with understanding your goals as a player. Whether you want a casual painting project, a tournament-ready force, or a fun two-player experience with a friend, the right purchase depends on several key factors.

Faction Selection

Your faction choice shapes every aspect of your Kings of War experience. Forum communities on Reddit and kowforum consistently recommend Northern Alliance and Ogres for new players due to their straightforward playstyles and forgiving learning curves.

For players who prioritize model aesthetics, the Nightstalkers and Empire of Dust offer the most visually distinctive options. The Nightstalker horror theme and Egyptian-inspired Empire of Dust sculpts stand out on any tabletop.

If you want faction variety before committing, 2-player starter sets like War in the Holds or Shadow in the North let you sample two factions simultaneously. This approach gives you firsthand experience with different playstyles before investing in a full army.

Starter Sets vs Individual Units

Starter sets offer the best value per model in the Kings of War range. Our cost-per-model analysis shows that 2-player sets typically deliver models at roughly half the individual regiment box price.

Individual regiment boxes make sense when you already know your faction and want to expand specific unit types. The Clansman Regiment and Ratkin Warriors boxes are excellent for targeted army growth.

Mega Army sets like the Goblin Mega Army (114 models) and Basilean Mega Army (91 models) offer the lowest cost per model in the entire range. These are ideal for players committed to a specific faction who want maximum content.

4th Edition Compatibility

Kings of War 4th edition brought refinements rather than wholesale changes, meaning all the miniatures in our roundup remain fully compatible with the current ruleset. The core unit types and regiment sizes have not changed between editions.

If you are starting fresh in 2026, we recommend picking up a current starter set that includes updated rulebooks. The War in the Holds and Sands of Ahmun sets both include current-edition rules materials.

Budget Considerations

The Ambush Starter Sets from the Kings of War line offer the lowest entry price. At under $35 for a playable starter force, these sets let you test the game before committing to larger purchases.

For maximum content, the Mega Army sets and large 2-player sets deliver the most miniatures per dollar. The Ice and Shadow set works out to approximately one dollar per figure, which is exceptional value for fantasy wargame miniatures.

Remember that all models require assembly and most require painting. Factor in the cost of plastic cement, primer, and paints when budgeting your Kings of War startup expenses.

FAQs

What are the best Kings of War armies for beginners?

The Northern Alliance and Ogres are widely recommended as the best Kings of War armies for beginners. Northern Alliance offers straightforward infantry tactics with forgiving playstyles, while Ogres have low model counts that reduce assembly and painting time. The Northern Alliance Ambush Starter Set and Sands of Ahmun Two Player Starter Set are both excellent entry points.

Which Kings of War faction has the best models?

Based on community sentiment and our firsthand experience, the Nightstalkers have the most visually distinctive and acclaimed model range in Kings of War. The horror-themed sculpts including Scarecrows, Spectres, and Butchers are unlike anything else in fantasy wargaming. The Empire of Dust also receives high praise for its Egyptian undead aesthetic.

What is the best starter army for Kings of War?

The War in the Holds 2 Player Starter Set is the best overall starter, offering 86 miniatures across two factions plus a full rulebook for outstanding value. For solo players, the Northern Alliance Ambush Starter Set provides the highest-rated entry point with a perfect 5-star review average.

Is Kings of War 4th edition worth getting?

Yes, Kings of War 4th edition is worth getting. It refines the already well-regarded ruleset with improved clarity and tactical depth rather than overhauling the system. All existing miniatures remain fully compatible, and the balance between factions continues to be praised by the competitive community.

How would you rate the Kings of War armies mini-wise?

The quality of Kings of War miniatures varies by faction. Nightstalkers, Northern Alliance, and Empire of Dust consistently receive the highest praise for sculpt quality and visual appeal. Basilean and Dwarf ranges offer excellent variety and value. Some older faction ranges are considered less detailed, but recent hard plastic releases have significantly improved overall quality.

Final Thoughts on the Best Kings of War Miniatures in 2026

After months of building, painting, and playing with these models, our top recommendation remains the War in the Holds 2 Player Starter Set for its incredible value and fresh sculpts. The Northern Alliance Ambush Starter Set is our pick for budget-conscious new players, while the Nightstalker Army box delivers the most visually striking faction in the game.

The best Kings of War miniatures combine quality sculpts with accessible pricing, and Mantic Games has built a range that delivers on both fronts. Whether you are starting your first army or expanding an existing collection, every product in this roundup offers genuine value for rank-and-flank enthusiasts.

Pick a faction that excites you visually, grab a starter set to learn the rules, and start building your Pannithor army today. The community is welcoming, the rules are tight, and the miniatures have never looked better.

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