Quick answer
Choose the C'Tan Shard of the Nightbringer if you want a large, dramatic centerpiece that doubles as a painting project and a Necrons army focal point. Choose the Neurolictor if you play Tyranids and prefer a smaller, stealth-themed model that supports sabotage and psychological warfare on the table.
Scale and painting commitment
The Nightbringer is described as a magnificent centerpiece model and an enjoyable painting challenge, while the Neurolictor is a spindly offshoot of the Lictor. That difference in scale changes how much time and display space each demands. A centerpiece rewards slow, layered painting and a prominent shelf spot; a spindly stealth model rewards a tighter, more controlled approach and takes up less room. Neither kit's exact dimensions or part count are supplied, so check the product page if size is your deciding factor.
Battlefield role and army fit
The Nightbringer is a named C'Tan shard for Necrons, a death-themed centrepiece that cuts down swathes of enemies with a scythe. The Neurolictor is a Tyranid stealth terror weapon that projects a neural disruption field to leave enemies open to attack. These are not interchangeable purchases: one anchors a Necrons collection, the other slots into a Tyranids force built around sabotage and psychological pressure. Pick the one that matches the army you actually play.
Trade-offs at a glance
- Display impact vs shelf space: The Nightbringer is a magnificent centerpiece that commands attention; the Neurolictor is a spindly, stealthy model that blends into a swarm. If you want a single showpiece, the Nightbringer wins; if space is tight, the Neurolictor is the easier fit. Measure your display shelf before committing to a centerpiece.
- Painting time vs painting challenge: The Nightbringer is explicitly an enjoyable painting challenge, so budget more sessions for it. The Neurolictor's spindly frame demands precision but covers less surface area. Neither is a quick win, but the Nightbringer asks for a longer commitment. Match the kit to the number of painting sessions you can realistically finish.
- Army lock-in: The Nightbringer only fits Necrons; the Neurolictor only fits Tyranids. There is no crossover. Decide by the faction you are building, not by which model looks cooler in isolation. If you own both armies, buy for the one you are actively painting this month.
Product facts
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Warhammer 40000: Xenos: Necrons: C'Tan Shard of the Nightbringer: A plastic miniature for Warhammer 40,000 that adds the very embodiment of death to your Necrons army. It is a faction-specific centerpiece, so it only makes sense if you collect and play Necrons.
Warhammer 40000: Xenos: Necrons: C'Tan Shard of the Nightbringer
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Warhammer 40000: Xenos: Tyranids: Neurolictor: A stealthy terror weapon that projects a neural disruption field, leaving enemies open to attack. Its value comes from disruption and setup rather than raw size, so it suits players who like board control over display presence.
Warhammer 40000: Xenos: Tyranids: Neurolictor
Which should you choose?
Best for
- Necrons players who want a large, death-themed centerpiece and a serious painting project
- Collectors who display Xenos miniatures and want a single dramatic focal model
Not for
- Tyranids players who need a stealthy disruption piece rather than a display centerpiece
- Anyone short on shelf space or painting time who wants a smaller, faster project