Introduction
Warmachine: Cryx Necrofactorium Command represents a compelling entry point for players eager to dive into the dark, necromantic forces of the Cryx faction. Designed by Steamforged Games as part of the Warmachine MKIV line, this starter set introduces players to an army of terrifying undead powered by necromantic magic and industrialized science. It includes a 30-point force ready to play out of the box, making it ideal for newcomers or those looking to expand their existing Cryx collection. The set features Wraithbinder Nekane as its central warcaster, alongside character units like Hades, Master Necrotech Chatterbane, and The Furies, offering a balanced mix of versatility and thematic depth.
Design & Components
The Cryx Necrofactorium Command Starter delivers a rich array of unpainted resin miniatures that require assembly but are presented with clear instructions and quality sculpting. The box includes six models: Wraithbinder Nekane (a warcaster), Hades (a character warjack), Master Necrotech Chatterbane (a solo unit), and three Furies, a unique undead model unit. These pieces are designed to reflect the faction’s grim aesthetic, with intricate details that highlight the industrialized necromancy of the Cryx.
Compatibility is another strong point of this starter set. It works seamlessly with other Cryx Necrofactorium expansions, such as the Battlegroup Box (a 20-point force) and Core or Auxiliary Expansions. For those interested in similar battlegroups, check out [our review of Hordes: Skorne Battlegroup]. This allows players to scale up their armies from 30 points to larger battles or build specialized lists for different game modes like Recon, Skirmish, or Pitched/Grand Melee.
🛒 Get the Best Deal on 
Fast, free delivery
30-day return policy
A-to-Z guarantee
Gameplay Experience
The Cryx Necrofactorium thrives on its thematic strengths: swarms of undead thralls, dark magic, and the ability to repurpose fallen enemies. The Furies, in particular, stand out as a unique unit that can cast spells after eliminating enemy models, adding strategic depth to gameplay. This mechanic, combined with the warcaster’s ability to suffer damage for spellcasting or boosting rolls, creates dynamic interactions on the battlefield.
The starter set is designed to be immediately playable, offering a balanced roster of units that encourage experimentation with different tactics. Players can leverage the Necrofactorium’s focus on melee combat and area control through swarms of thralls and fast warjacks like Hades. However, some reviews note that the limited initial roster might require players to invest in additional expansions for more advanced strategies or larger point totals.
Value & Pricing
Priced at around $79.99, the Cryx Necrofactorium Command Starter offers excellent value for a fully playable 30-point force. It serves as both an entry-level set and a foundation for future expansion, with preorders available for additional boxes that introduce new models and units. Compared to other starter sets in the Warmachine line, this one stands out for its thematic cohesion and ease of use, particularly for players who enjoy the horror elements of the Cryx faction.
The Battlegroup Box (20 points) pairs well with the Command Starter, allowing players to build a 50-point force or use it as a base for larger armies. While some initial delays in shipping were reported due to reorganizing existing factions into new box sets, the Cryx Necrofactorium was developed from the ground up, ensuring no such issues for this release.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- A fully playable 30-point force ready to use immediately with minimal setup required.
- High-quality resin miniatures that reflect the grim, industrialized aesthetic of the Cryx faction.
- Compatibility with other Cryx Necrofactorium expansions for scalable army building.
Cons
- Unpainted and unassembled miniatures may require time and effort from players unfamiliar with miniature painting or assembly.
- Limited initial roster might necessitate additional purchases for more advanced gameplay options.
- The Furies’ spellcasting mechanic, while powerful, can be overwhelming for new players to master.
Conclusion
The Warmachine: Cryx Necrofactorium Command Starter is a standout product for both newcomers and seasoned players looking to explore the dark, undead forces of the Cryx faction. Its combination of thematic depth, strategic gameplay mechanics, and compatibility with future expansions makes it an excellent value proposition. While the need for painting and assembly may be a minor hurdle, the set’s strong design and immediate playability ensure it remains a top recommendation for those entering the Warmachine universe. Whether you’re drawn to the faction’s industrialized necromancy or its unique gameplay mechanics, this starter set provides a solid foundation for building your own unholy strike force.
