Adeptus Mechanicus – Tech-Priest Dominus

To stay with the Mechanicus topic, this review covers the Tech-Priest Dominus by Games Workshop, usable for Skitarii and Cult Mechanicus in Warhammer 40.000.

The miniature itself is available in two ways, as a single clamshell blister for 29 EUR / 22 GBP, or as part of the Start-Collecting Adeptus Mechanicus Bundle for 65 EUR / 50 GBP. The coloured print is the back cover of the blister and instruction leaflet in one.

Tech-Priest Dominus covers two small sized sprues and a 50mm round base. Casting is good and mold lines are minimal. The sprues are properly used and cover even a few optional bits to choose from.

Building begins with the bend torso, that gives the miniature a slight floating look. The fit is overall good, but on the front is a slight gap that should be touched up with some putty or liquid green stuff.

Next up are the arms and the weaponry. The Tech-Priest Dominus carries a cane, most likely not needed, but just a design element to show that this is an elder character. A volkite blaster or eradication ray for the right arm, and the choice between phosphor serpenta  or macro stubber. I went - just for the looks - with the volkite blaster and phosphor serpenta.

The Tech-Priest is turned around and the back is taken care off, and additional servo-tentacle is added to be lower back along with further details for the back pack.

In the last building step, you got to choose between two different heads, one with the Skitarii styled hoods and another one with a Cult Mechanicus mitre, and of course the power axe - the tech-priests badge of office.

Standing on a 50mm base, the Tech-Priest Dominus is a rather large miniature, only be topped by the Archmagos Belisarius Cawl, but still taller than the other infantry from the Mechanicus range or even a Space Marine.

And to show the well done Tech-Priest, here is the round up from different angles.

Conclusion
The style of the mechanicus is really unique, dark and gritty, and in my opinion very iconic for the true feel of Warhammer 40.000. The very recognisable mechanicus power axe and the semi-human semi-machine creature has an distinctive design, that is very well done. The pose is well chosen, not to static, but dynamic enough for an ancient tech-priest.

About the price, that is one big let down. 29 EUR / 22 GBP is a ridiculous price tag, simply don't buy him that way. Get the larger Start-Collecting box (which covers a 40+ % discount) and sell the skitarii and dunecrawler (or keep them, the box is a good bargain and the models are nice). To set the price into perspective, Forge World charges 22 GBP for their resin Dominus with rad-cleanser.

Any how, this miniature is a solid centre piece for a small Mechanicus force or a Inq28 warband. Especially for the later, as Belisarius might be a bit oversized for a skirmish.