The Evolution of Diversity in Warhammer 40K: From Space Marines to Adeptus Custodes

The Warhammer 40K universe has long been a beloved staple in the world of tabletop gaming and digital entertainment. With its rich lore, complex characters, and epic battles, it has captivated audiences for decades. As we approach the release date of Warhammer 40K: Space Marine 2, the excitement within the gaming community is palpable. This highly anticipated sequel comes 13 years after the original game, which was celebrated for its themes of humanity’s struggle against hostile alien forces. The space marines, trained to take on powerful enemies, have always been at the heart of this franchise. However, as the release date nears, discussions about the game’s lack of diversity have come to the forefront.

One of the most significant criticisms directed at Warhammer 40K: Space Marine 2 is its perceived lack of inclusivity. In an era where diversity and representation are increasingly important, some fans have expressed disappointment that the game does not feature more diverse characters. The main character, Captain Demetrian Titus, returns after 13 years, but the game appears to have carried over a mistake from its predecessor: a lack of diverse representation. This has sparked a debate within the community about whether the developers should have made more efforts to include characters from different backgrounds and genders.

Interestingly, while Warhammer 40K: Space Marine 2 faces criticism for its lack of diversity, the broader Warhammer 40K universe has seen significant strides in this area. Games Workshop, the creators of Warhammer 40K, recently expanded the lore with a new animation featuring a female custodian protagonist. The episode, titled ‘Harvest,’ is part of the series ‘The Tithes’ and can be viewed on Warhammer TV. The inclusion of a female custodian has caused controversy within the fandom, with some fans opposing what they perceive as forced diversity. However, others see it as a positive step towards a more inclusive universe.

The character of Tyrit Shiva Kyrus, the female custodian, is portrayed accurately as relentless, focused, and lethal. This portrayal highlights that the gender of a custodian is virtually indistinguishable when wearing their armor. The setting of ‘Harvest’ is a classic 40K scenario, with multiple factions converging on a world. The space marines must defend the world, while the custodian and a sister of silence are there to collect psykers. The tyranids are also present, seeking to feed on the world. This storyline stays true to the core elements of Warhammer 40K, while also introducing a new perspective through the inclusion of a female character.

The introduction of female Adeptus Custodes has not been without its detractors. Many Warhammer hobbyists are angry at Games Workshop for changing the lore of Warhammer 40K. The Adeptus Custodes, the Emperor’s elite guard, were first introduced in the 1987 Rogue Trader rules as men. They are considered stronger and better than space marines, and their depiction as a brotherhood of demigods recruited from the sons of nobles has been a longstanding element of the lore. However, Games Workshop has doubled down on their claim of having female custodians, stating that potential custodians are taken in at a young age and it is an honor for noble families to submit their children.

This change has led to a wave of mockery and skepticism within the community. Some enthusiasts are using J.R.R. Tolkien’s idea of ‘secondary worlds’ and suspending disbelief to cope with the changes. Others are making jokes about ork custodians or comparing the situation to the god Khorne being the god of cakes and not showing his kitchen in the lore. Despite this backlash, Games Workshop believes that this portrayal helps to dispel the misconception that custodians are just bigger, better space marines. They argue that there is still much unknown about the custodians in the 41st millennium and their recruitment process, allowing fans to create their own characters and stories.

The question of female space marines is another contentious issue within the Warhammer 40K community. While some fans are clamoring for their inclusion, others are staunchly opposed. Games Workshop has addressed this topic in a previous post, discussing business factors and the long-term profitability of their IP. The inclusion of Primaris space marines in 2017 shows that Games Workshop is willing to experiment with the lore, but the changes made were not significant. The addition of female space marines would likely cause a bigger stir, given the strong reactions to the Primaris marines.

Despite the controversy, there are ways that Games Workshop can make their product line more appealing to potential female customers. Including more female miniatures and named characters in various factions is one approach. This strategy has already seen success with the unexpected release of a new Codex and plastic kits for the Sisters of Battle in 2019, and the recent expansion of female characters in other factions. The inclusion of female Adeptus Custodes in the 10th edition Codex further demonstrates Games Workshop’s commitment to diversity and representation within the Warhammer 40K universe.

It’s important to note that the inclusion of female characters in Warhammer 40K does not detract from the existing lore or the richness of the universe. The Adeptus Custodes are shown to be a hyper-focused faction where gender is irrelevant. This is evident in the recent Warhammer TV animation, where Tyrit Shiva Kyrus is depicted as superior to space marines in combat. The episode explores the weight of a custodian’s authority and their relationship with space marines, adding depth to the character and the overall narrative.

Games Workshop’s decision to introduce female Adeptus Custodes has sparked important discussions about diversity and representation within the Warhammer 40K community. While some fans are resistant to these changes, others welcome them as a necessary evolution of the franchise. The company encourages fans to fill in the gaps with their own characters and stories, allowing for a more inclusive and expansive universe. This approach not only honors the legacy of Warhammer 40K but also ensures its continued relevance in an ever-changing world.

As we look forward to the release of Warhammer 40K: Space Marine 2, it’s clear that the conversation about diversity in the franchise is far from over. The game’s developers have an opportunity to address these concerns and create a more inclusive experience for all players. Whether through the introduction of new characters, storylines, or gameplay mechanics, there are many ways to make the Warhammer 40K universe more representative of its diverse fanbase. This will not only enhance the gaming experience but also ensure the longevity and success of the franchise.

In conclusion, the Warhammer 40K universe is undergoing a significant transformation. From the introduction of female Adeptus Custodes to the ongoing debate about female space marines, the franchise is evolving to reflect the values of its diverse and passionate community. While there will always be resistance to change, it’s essential to recognize the importance of diversity and representation in creating a more inclusive and engaging experience for all fans. As we eagerly await the release of Warhammer 40K: Space Marine 2, let’s celebrate the progress that has been made and look forward to a future where everyone can see themselves reflected in the rich tapestry of the Warhammer 40K universe.