Best Tyranids Starter Set: Building Your Hive Fleet with the Top 5 Sets

In the grim darkness of the far future, the Tyranids emerge as one of the most terrifying and relentless threats to the galaxy. These alien predators, driven by an insatiable hunger, consume all life in their path, leaving only barren wastelands behind.

The Tyranids are not a single species but a collection of highly specialized bioforms, each engineered for a specific purpose by the gestalt consciousness known as the Hive Mind. From the towering Carnifexes to the swarming Hormagaunts, every Tyranid organism plays a crucial role in the survival and expansion of the hive fleets. As the Tyranids descend upon the worlds of the Milky Way, the races of the galaxy must unite or face annihilation in the face of this seemingly unstoppable foe.

Looking for something with both Space Marines and Tyranids? Head over to The Best Starter Sets for Warhammer 40k 

Key Takeaways:

• Comprehensive guide to the best Tyranids starter sets
• Detailed descriptions of each set, including contents and assembly
• Tips for painting and customizing your Tyranids
• Ideal for beginners and experienced collectors alike
• Exclusive insights from a passionate Warhammer hobbyist with over 20 years of experience

The Tyranids: A Devouring Swarm

In the vast expanse of the Warhammer 40,000 universe, few threats are as terrifying and relentless as the Tyranids. These alien predators from beyond the galaxy’s edge are driven by an insatiable hunger, consuming all biomass in their path and evolving to adapt to any challenge they face.

The Tyranids are not a single species but a collection of highly specialized bioforms, each engineered for a specific purpose by the gestalt consciousness known as the Hive Mind. From the towering Carnifexes to the swarming Hormagaunts, every Tyranid organism plays a crucial role in the survival and expansion of the hive fleets.

As the Tyranids descend upon the worlds of the Milky Way, the races of the galaxy must unite or face annihilation. The Imperium of Man, the elder races, and even the forces of Chaos find themselves locked in a desperate struggle against this seemingly unstoppable foe.

In the face of such overwhelming odds, the fate of the galaxy hangs in the balance. Will the Tyranids’ hunger be sated, or will they consume all life in their path, leaving only a barren wasteland in their wake?

Want to try 3d printing instead? Read up here for the Best 3d Printers for Miniatures

 Why Choose a Tyranids Starter Set?

Tyranids starter sets offer an excellent entry point for those new to the Warhammer 40k universe or looking to bolster their existing Tyranids army. These carefully curated sets provide a diverse range of models, allowing you to explore the unique aesthetics and playstyles of the Tyranids faction.

Best Tyranids Starter Set: Norn Emissary

The Norn Emissary is a remarkable centerpiece model that showcases the raw power and psionics abilities of the Tyranids. This multipart plastic kit allows you to build either a Norn Emissary or a Norn Assimilator, each with its own distinctive pose and details.

What’s in the Box:

• 58 plastic components
• Citadel 100mm Round Base

On the tabletop, the Norn Emissary is a force to be reckoned with. Its massive size and imposing presence make it an ideal centerpiece for your Tyranids army. With its powerful psychic abilities and devastating close-combat prowess, the Norn Emissary can shred through enemy lines, tearing apart even the toughest opponents with its scything talons and claws.

The kit’s two different lower torso options allow you to customize your Emissary’s pose, whether surveying the battlefield from atop a ruined structure or leering down at its prey, ready to strike.

Fancy taking all your glory to Khorne? Checkout our Khorne Starter Set

Best Tyranids Starter Set: Hormagaunts

Hormagaunts are the backbone of any Tyranids swarm, and this set allows you to build 10 of these ferocious creatures along with a Ripper Swarm. The varied poses – leaping, stalking, and lunging – combined with the assortment of head designs, ensure that your Hormagaunts maintain a sense of individuality within the swarm.

What’s in the Box:

• 68 plastic components
• 10x Citadel 28.5mm Round Bases
• Citadel 40mm Round Base

In battle, Hormagaunts serve as the vanguard of the Tyranids swarm, rushing forward to engage the enemy in close combat. Their speed and ferocity make them ideal for overwhelming enemy defenses and tying up units in melee.

The varied poses in this kit, from leaping and lunging to stalking, allow you to create a dynamic and visually striking unit on the tabletop. As your Hormagaunts tear through enemy ranks, the accompanying Ripper Swarm can scuttle ahead, claiming objectives and harassing smaller enemy units.

Want to bring the fight to Imperium instead? Check here for the Best Chaos Starter Set for Beginners 

Best Tyranids Starter Set: Neurolictor

The Neurolictor is a terrifying addition to any Tyranids army, specializing in psychological warfare and sabotage. This multipart plastic kit builds a single Neurolictor, complete with its signature eyeless design, mantis-like claws, and overdeveloped alien brain.

What’s in the Box:

• 15 plastic components
• Citadel 50mm Round Base

The Neurolictor’s primary role on the battlefield is to sow chaos and confusion among enemy ranks. By implanting mind-altering parasites and projecting a neural disruption field, the Neurolictor can cause even the most disciplined units to break formation and flee in terror.

Its Lictor heritage gives it an uncanny ability to remain unseen, striking from the shadows to sabotage key targets and disrupt enemy strategies. With its eerie, eyeless visage and sinister silhouette, the Neurolictor is sure to unnerve your opponents both on and off the tabletop.

Decided on what to buy and need brushes for your paints? See our guide for The Best Brushes for Warhammer 40k 

Best Tyranids Starter Set: Warriors

Tyranid Warriors are the ultimate adaptable bioforms, capable of wielding a wide array of bio-weapons. This set allows you to build 3 Tyranid Warriors or 2 Tyranid Warriors and a Tyranid Prime, with an impressive selection of weapons and customization options.

What’s in the Box:

• 89 plastic components to make 3 Tyranid Warriors, or 2 Tyranid Warriors and a Tyranid Prime

Tyranid Warriors form the backbone of any Tyranids army, acting as synapse creatures that relay the Hive Mind’s commands to the swarm. The wide array of weapons available in this kit allows you to customize your Warriors for any battlefield role.

Equip them with lash whips and rending claws for devastating close-quarters combat, or arm them with deathspitters and venom cannons to provide long-range fire support. The inclusion of adrenal glands and toxic sacs further enhances their lethality, while the option to build a Tyranid Prime adds a powerful leader to your force.

Set your sights on the galaxy! But first they must be weakned from within, Weaken them from within with the Genestealer Cult Starter Sets

Best Tyranids Starter Set: Biovore

The Biovore is a unique addition to your Tyranids collection, serving as a sentient mortar capable of launching Spore Mines onto the battlefield. This set includes a multipart plastic kit for building a Biovore and three floating Spore Mines.

What’s in the Box:

• 37 plastic components
• Citadel 80mm Round Base
• 3x Citadel 25mm Round Bases

With 37 plastic components, a Citadel 80mm Round Base, and 3 Citadel 25mm Round Bases, this set offers alternate leg poses and basing elements for the Biovore, as well as three distinct designs for the Spore Mines. The Biovore can also be built as a Pyrovore, further expanding your options.

The Evil Drukhari perhaps have stirred something within you yes? View our article for The Best Dark Elf Starter Sets for Warhammer 40k 

 Assembling and Painting Your Tyranids

Once you’ve chosen your desired Tyranids starter set, it’s time to assemble and paint your models. Each set comes with detailed instructions to guide you through the assembly process. I recommend using Citadel Plastic Glue for a strong bond and Citadel Colour paints to bring your Tyranids to life.

Read our guide on the Best Paint Sets for Warhammer 40k

When painting your Tyranids, consider their organic, alien nature. Experiment with blending techniques, washes, and highlights to create a sense of depth and texture. Don’t be afraid to venture beyond the traditional color schemes – your Tyranids can be as vibrant or as muted as you desire.

If you’re looking for a painting guide for Tyranids we recommend Goonhammer.com!

Expanding Your Tyranids Army

As you become more familiar with the Tyranids faction, you may want to expand your army beyond the starter sets. The Warhammer Universe offers a vast array of Tyranids models, each with its own unique abilities and role on the battlefield.

Consider adding larger models, such as the Trygon or the Tyrannofex, to serve as powerful centerpieces for your army. Alternatively, you can focus on building swarms of smaller creatures, like Genestealers or Termagants, to overwhelm your opponents through sheer numbers.

Interested to learn what the Best Starter Army for Warhammer 40k is?

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Are Tyranids starter sets suitable for beginners?

A: Yes, Tyranids starter sets are designed to be accessible for beginners. They come with comprehensive assembly instructions and include a variety of models to help you learn the basics of building and painting.

Q: Can I use the models from a Tyranids starter set in official Warhammer 40,000 games?

A: Absolutely! All models in Tyranids starter sets are official Games Workshop products and are fully compatible with the Warhammer 40,000 ruleset.

Q: Do I need to purchase additional paints and tools to assemble and paint my Tyranids?

A: While each starter set comes with the necessary components to build your models, you will need to purchase Citadel Plastic Glue and Citadel Colour paints separately. It’s also recommended to have a set of hobby clippers and files for a smooth assembly process.

Q: Can I mix and match models from different Tyranids starter sets?

A: Yes, you can combine models from various Tyranids starter sets to create a diverse and unique army. The Tyranids faction is known for its adaptability, and mixing different bioforms is a great way to represent that on the tabletop.

Q: Where can I find more information on painting techniques and tactics for my Tyranids army?

A: Websites like warhammeruniverse.com and the official Games Workshop website offer a wealth of tutorials, guides, and articles on painting techniques and tactics specific to the Tyranids faction. Additionally, joining local gaming groups or attending Warhammer events can provide valuable opportunities to learn from experienced players.

 Whether you’re drawn to the raw power of the Norn Emissary, the swarming might of the Hormagaunts, or the psychological warfare of the Neurolictor, each set offers a unique experience and endless opportunities for customization.

As you assemble and paint your Tyranids, remember to embrace their alien nature and let your creativity run wild. The Warhammer Universe community is always ready to support you with advice, inspiration, and a shared passion for this incredible hobby.

So, grab your chosen Tyranids starter set, arm yourself with Citadel paints and glue, and prepare to unleash the might of the Hive Mind upon the tabletop!