Malifaux Starter Boxes: Arcanist vs Ten Thunders vs Two Player
By Wyrd Games Official Store | Tabletop Games & Miniatures | Published: 2026-10-22
Category: Comparisons
Compare the Arcanist, Ten Thunders, and Two Player starter boxes to find the best Malifaux entry point for your playstyle and budget.
Quick Answer
If you want the most complete first-game experience, the Malifaux Fourth Edition Two Player Starter is your best value. For a solo start with a specific faction, choose the Ten Thunders or Arcanist Starter Box based on which crew appeals to you more.
What Each Starter Box Includes
The Arcanist and Ten Thunders Starter Boxes are designed for players who already know which faction they want to explore. Both include three preassembled miniatures, a Fate Deck, General Upgrades, 10 Scheme Markers, and a Measuring Widget. The Arcanist box features Harrison Frodsham, Harris J-5, and two Gearlings, while the Ten Thunders box includes Koji, Kara, and two Amai. These are true faction starters that give you a playable crew out of the box.
The Malifaux Fourth Edition Two Player Starter takes a different approach. It includes two complete crews—the Neverborn and Outcasts—plus two Fate Decks and everything else needed for two players to start playing immediately. This box is built for sharing, making it ideal for introducing a friend or partner to the game.
Cost and Value Trade-Off
At USD 29.70, the Ten Thunders Starter Box is the most affordable way to enter Malifaux if you already know you want to play that faction. The Arcanist Starter Box costs slightly more at USD 31.05, but both are priced well below their USD 45.00 comparison price. Either is a low-risk investment if you're committed to a faction.
The Two Player Starter is priced at USD 87.60, which is higher than either single-faction box. However, it includes two full crews and two Fate Decks, so the per-player cost is comparable to buying two starter boxes. The real value is convenience: you get everything needed for two players in one purchase, and you avoid the hassle of coordinating separate orders.
Edition Differences: Third vs Fourth
The Arcanist and Ten Thunders Starter Boxes are for Malifaux Third Edition, while the Two Player Starter is for Malifaux Fourth Edition. If you're new and want to play with friends who already own a specific edition, match your purchase to their game. If you're starting fresh with no existing community, the Fourth Edition Two Player Starter is the more future-proof choice, as it's the current edition.
Both Third Edition starter boxes still offer a complete play experience, and the miniatures remain usable in Fourth Edition with the appropriate rules updates. But if you're unsure about edition compatibility, the Two Player Starter removes that uncertainty entirely.
Trade-Offs at a Glance
- Budget vs. Value: If you want the lowest entry cost, choose the Ten Thunders Starter Box at USD 29.70. If you want the most content per dollar, the Two Player Starter gives you two crews for USD 87.60, which is comparable to buying two single-faction boxes. Calculate per-player cost: the Two Player Starter is about USD 43.80 per player, slightly less than a single starter box.
- Faction Commitment vs. Exploration: If you already know you want to play Arcanists or Ten Thunders, buy the matching starter box. If you're unsure which faction appeals to you, the Two Player Starter lets you try two different factions with a friend. Try both crews in the Two Player Starter before committing to a full faction purchase.
- Edition Choice: If you're starting fresh with no existing group, choose the Fourth Edition Two Player Starter to align with the current rules. If you're joining friends who play Third Edition, pick the Arcanist or Ten Thunders box to match their edition. Check with your local gaming group to confirm which edition they play before buying.
Product Facts
- Malifaux Third Edition: Ten Thunders Starter Box: The Ten Thunders Starter Box includes Koji, Kara, and two Amai, plus a Fate Deck, General Upgrades, 10 Scheme Markers, and a Measuring Widget. This is the most budget-friendly way to start a Ten Thunders crew with preassembled miniatures and all essential play aids.
Malifaux Third Edition: Ten Thunders Starter Box - Malifaux Fourth Edition - Two Player Starter: The Malifaux Fourth Edition Two Player Starter includes two complete crews (Neverborn and Outcasts), two Fate Decks, and everything needed for a fast first game. It's the most complete starter experience, letting two players jump straight into the game without needing additional purchases.
Malifaux Fourth Edition - Two Player Starter
Which Starter Should You Choose?
Best For
- Players who want a complete two-player experience with minimal setup
- Newcomers who want to try two different factions before committing
- Those who prefer the current Fourth Edition rules
Not For
- Players who already know they want to play Arcanists or Ten Thunders specifically
- Solo players on a tight budget who don't need a second crew
