We are the Eldar, an ancient and enigmatic Xenos race that has persevered despite terrible odds. Once the rulers of a vast empire, we now exist in several factions upon maiden worlds, within craftworlds, or even in the depths of the webway, wielding elegant weaponry and mystic arts.
With our lithe forms and advanced technology, we are both graceful and deadly, striking with precision and flair. Our sleek craft and deadly equipment allow us to outmaneuver our more primitive foes, ensuring that we remain one step ahead in the eternal struggle for survival.
We fight not just for our existence, but for the preservation of our culture and the protection of our worlds, always wary of the Chaos gods that threaten to eternally punish us for our past sins, or the Imperium who would see us erased from existence.
Who Are the Eldar?
The Eldar are a highly advanced and ancient faction in the Warhammer 40,000 universe, known for their ethereal beauty, agility, and mastery of psychic powers. Once a dominant civilization, they fell into decadence and excess, leading to their near destruction during the Fall of the Aeldari and the birth of the chaos god Slaanesh.
Now, the Eldar are divided into various factions, including the Craftworlds, the Drukhari, and the Harlequins, each with its own unique culture and purpose. As psychically attuned beings, Eldar wields potent powers that allow them to manipulate the fabric of reality and command incredible technology.
Their society is steeped in tradition and ritual, valuing art, knowledge, and the pursuit of perfection. The Eldar fight to reclaim their former glory while protecting what remains of their dying race.
What Are the Eldar Army Strengths?
The Eldar army is characterized by its speed, maneuverability, and advanced technology, making it a formidable force on the battlefield.
- Eldar units excel in hit-and-run tactics, utilizing their superior agility to outpace opponents and strike at weak points.
- Their forces include powerful psykers, such as Farseers and Warlocks, who can bend fate to their will, providing strategic advantages in battle.
- Eldar vehicles, like Wave Serpents and Falcons, are fast and resilient, delivering their troops swiftly into the fray. Their weaponry is often highly specialized, allowing them to target specific threats with deadly efficiency.
However, the Eldar can be fragile, relying on speed and precision rather than brute strength. Many units are relatively low in toughness and can be overwhelmed if caught in a prolonged engagement.
Their reliance on finesse means that miscalculations can lead to devastating losses.
Where Should Beginners Start?
If you’re starting your collection of Aeldari as a beginner, consider these key models:
- Aeldari Guardians: These are the backbone of any Aeldari army. Purchase a box of Guardians to create a versatile squad, capable of holding objectives and providing fire support.
- Farseer: A Farseer serves as a powerful leader, utilizing psychic powers to guide your forces and enhance their effectiveness in battle.
- Howling Banshees: These elite aspect warriors excel in close combat and can quickly engage enemy units, providing lethal melee support.
- Wave Serpent: This transport vehicle provides mobility and protection for your units, allowing you to strike swiftly while keeping your troops safe.
How To Paint Aeldari
Here are some creative paint ideas for new Eldar players:
Color Scheme Ideas
Classic Craftworld
- Base Coat: Start with a base coat of a vibrant color representing your Craftworld (like blue for Ulthwe or yellow for Biel-Tan).
- Highlight: Highlight with a lighter shade to add depth. Use a contrasting color for armor and details, such as white or silver, to create a striking appearance.
- Wash: Finish with a wash to enhance shadows and details.
Saim-Hann
- Base Coat; For a bold look, use a base coat of red or orange for armor.
- Highlight: Highlight with brighter shades to create dynamic contrasts.
- Details: Use green for details and accents, capturing the vibrant spirit of the Saim-Hann Craftworld.
Iyanden
- Base Coat: Start with a base coat of pale yellow or bone for armor, emphasizing the ethereal nature of the Iyanden.
- Highlight: Highlight with a lighter yellow or white.
- Details: Use blue or turquoise for weapon details, giving a ghostly appearance that reflects their history.
Painting Techniques
- Base Coating: Use bright, vivid colors that capture the essence of the Aeldari. A solid base coat provides a strong foundation for further detailing.
- Drybrushing: This technique is excellent for highlighting the fine details of Aeldari armor and weapons. Use a lighter color to accentuate raised surfaces, creating a polished, elegant appearance.
- Washes: Applying washes can add depth and shadow, emphasizing the intricate details of Aeldari models. Use dark washes like Nuln Oil to create contrast and highlight recesses.
- Edge Highlighting: Define the sharp edges of armor and weapons with lighter colors to create striking contrasts, enhancing the elegance and intricacy of the models.
- Contrast Paints: Utilize contrast paints for quick, impactful results, especially on larger areas like armor. This technique allows for depth without extensive layering, making it easier for beginners to achieve striking results that embody the grace of the Aeldari.
