Who Are The Space Wolves?
Werewolves in space! The Space Wolves are renowned for their savage combat style, embodying the warrior spirit of their Primarch, Leman Russ. They are often referred to as “Vlka Fenryka,” which means “Wolves of Fenris” in their native tongue.
They’re heavily influenced by Norse mythology and Viking lore, which is never a bad thing. They incorporate elements such as the Great Companies, the use of longships, and the concept of “The Allfather” (akin to Odin in Norse mythology).
The Space Wolves are known for their distrust of psychic abilities and psykers, which they view as dangerous due to their connection to Chaos. This has led to conflicts with other Imperial organisations, most notably with the Thousand Sons during the “Razing of Prospero”, which led the Sons down the path to Chaos.
Much like the Blood Angels, the Space Wolves gene-seed suffers from a curse. Known as the “Wulfen Curse,” it can transform some of their warriors into feral and uncontrollable form, that have more than a passing resemblance to werewolves.
What’s In The Box?
Leading the way is a Primaris Lieutenant. Under his command are ten Primaris Intercessors, five Primaris Reivers (which can be assembled as Hounds of Morkai instead) and an Invictor Tactical Warsuit. The box is complete with two Space Wolves Primaris upgrade frames/sprues to help set your Wolves apart from the run-of-the-mill Space Marines.
Another thematically strong Combat Patrol here. Space Wolves are ferocious, prefering close quarter combat. Which is not only reflected in the weapon choices of the Marines but also the hulking great Invictor, which is armed with a flame-thrower. Even the Lieutenant is ready to get up close and personal with a trusty power axe. Don’t worry, they’ve got guns too, but theyd probably prefer to fire them in the air as a victory celebration.
Are They Difficult To Paint?
Ahh Space Wolves. I’m not sure if it’s the colour scheme or the Norse inspired lore. But these are my favourite Space Marine chapter (closely followed by the Black Templar and their crusading ways). They’re a joy to paint, getting a solid coat of their signature colour is immensely satisfying. The highlighting can be rather unforgiving, but Space Marines are, arguably, the easiest to highlight and shade so it won’t take long until you’re well on your way to perfecting the technique.
There are a few Marines without helmets to tackle, but most of them have swapped hair for battle-scars and have been kind enough to grow beards, which add lovely focal points that are easily highlighted and shaded using Contrast paints.
The Invictor Warsuit, with its chucky panelling and low colour count is another enjoyable miniature to paint. The metallic paint job is easily achieved using Nuln Oil (Emperor bless whoever came up with Nuln Oil) and some drybrushing to pick out areas that light would hit.