Mantic’s 2025 Open Day delivered three major teases for Kings of War’s early-2026 lineup, spotlighting new resin kits for Halflings and the Trident Realm.

TL;DR

Mantic showcased new upcoming resin releases for Kings of War, arriving in early 2026. The preview included the Ej Halfling Drakon Rider, the dangerous Swamp Belcher, and the massive Trident King.

Highlights:
• Ej Halfling Drakon Rider with mechanical-winged drakon
• Swamp Belcher — a fire-breathing mutated drakon variant
• First full public display of the colossal Trident King

As part of their tradition, Mantic used Open Day 2025 to give fans an early look at several resin kits arriving after the launch of Kings of War 4th Edition. Following the debut of the Xirkaali Empire and new Trident Realm plastics, the studio revealed three units currently in development for early 2026.

The first previewed model was the Ej Halfling Drakon Rider, one of the rare drakons the halflings have rescued—or repaired—using mechanical wings. These elite airborne scouts support the faction’s aeronauts and grenadiers, bringing a mix of speed and precision to the battlefield.

Next came the Halfling Swamp Belcher, a mutated drakon transformed by devouring too much swamp fungus. No longer capable of flight, these creatures belch volatile flame thanks to a permanent internal smolder. Originally dangerous rescues, they soon became tools for hunting swamp predators, and now the halflings have fully weaponized them for war.

Finally, the Trident King made its first full public appearance after its cameo in the Xirkaali launch trailer. Towering above standard Neriticans, the Trident Kings are ancient, powerful beings bearing one of the three fabled Masks of Medusa. When one marches to war, storms rise and seas break at their passing.

WHY IT MATTERS FOR SKIRMISH GAMERS

These new models bring striking centerpiece options and creature profiles that fit naturally into small-model-count gaming. The Drakon Rider and Swamp Belcher are ideal as elite cavalry or monstrous support in skirmish systems like Gangfight, while the Trident King offers a dramatic boss-level threat.

Each sculpt adds personality and asymmetry to small-scale battles, making them appealing beyond Kings of War’s mass-rank format.