>>96282002
They were supposed to be Fantasy Space Marines.

However, it is impossible to judge them favorably for a few reasons:

1) As has been mentioned, they are being compared to their counter-parts; the Space Marines. Space Marines are one of the most iconic figures in modern Sci Fi. This is a VERY tall bar to pass.

2) They are the poster-children for a new setting which destroyed a beloved setting. I am convinced that GW was going to TRULY sun-set the Old World. The fact that Age of Sigmar's reception was so luke-warm is the only reason they brought back the Old World.

3) They started out with a bad design. I mean, look at pic related. Why are they all fat sumo wrestlers? GW eventually came to their senses and gave them better proportions, but by then it was too late. The first impression was ruined.

They never stood a chance. I understand that GW was trying to attract a new crowd that was more interested in World of Warcraft/Marvel stuff, but what they produced just didn't satisfy new customers or old customers. Now they are stuck with a mediocre mess.