Warhammer's Sons of Behemat Gain Strategic Depth

The Sons of Behemat have long been defined by sheer physical dominance. In the latest update for Warhammer Age of Sigmar, this faction finally gains a layer of strategic complexity. While the core identity remains centered on overwhelming force, the new models introduce versatility that was previously absent. This shift allows players to engage enemies from a distance or enhance their heavy hitters with magical support, moving the army beyond simple close-quarters combat.

According to a recent review by GN technics/gaming (en-US), this evolution addresses a common criticism of the faction. Previously, the army felt one-dimensional, relying almost exclusively on getting close and dealing massive damage. The new Battletome and models change this dynamic by offering alternative playstyles. This means players can now adapt their tactics based on the opponent, rather than committing to a single, predictable approach that can be easily countered by smaller, more agile factions.

New magic options diversify tactics

A key addition to the lineup is Ma Maegran, a character who serves as the faction's first dedicated spellcaster. This role fills a significant gap in the army's capabilities. While she is not a traditional fireball-throwing wizard, her abilities are designed to support the army's core strengths. She can buff nearby units to improve their accuracy and damage, effectively making the existing heavy hitters even more lethal. This support role allows the army to maintain its aggressive edge while adding a layer of control and enhancement.

Ma Maegran also brings access to a specific set of spells that can weaken enemies or provide critical damage to friendly units. This variety in magical options gives players more tools to influence the battlefield. The ability to enhance the prowess of large units while reducing the effectiveness of foes creates a more dynamic combat experience. It allows for a mix of offensive and defensive magical play, which was not possible with the previous models.

Unique unit roles and mechanics

Beyond simple buffs, the new models introduce unique mechanics that change how units interact. One notable ability involves transforming smaller gargants into larger, more powerful versions. This thematic change is reflected in gameplay by allowing players to swap out smaller models for larger ones, representing a growth in power. This mechanic adds a tactile element to the game, where the physical representation of the unit changes to match its in-game status.

The character is also accompanied by Ancient Gyrochs, small creatures that provide additional support. These units are difficult to eliminate due to their regenerative abilities. They can also be used to enhance the spellcasting capabilities of the main character. This creates a synergistic relationship between the support character and her accompanying units, adding another layer of strategy to the faction's playstyle.

Purchasing and hobby considerations

Players looking to add these new models to their collections can order them directly from the manufacturer or through independent retailers. The review suggests that indie stores often offer better pricing on new releases. This can result in significant savings for those purchasing multiple models. The new figures are designed to be engaging to assemble and paint, adding to the overall hobby experience.

The trade-off for this increased versatility is a slightly more complex ruleset. Players must now manage magical resources and support roles, which requires a deeper understanding of the game's mechanics. However, for those who enjoy tactical depth, this change is a welcome improvement. It transforms the Sons of Behemat from a straightforward brawler into a more nuanced and adaptable army.