Welcome to Competitive Innovations, our weekly feature for a number of game lines across the tabletop wargame space. Each week our army list and tactics experts canvass the top tournaments for their game of specialty, looking at the week’s top match-ups and how they played out on the tabletop to let you know what’s hot, what’s not, and what might be coming next as the competitive meta evolves year-round.

Good news! even though the balance updates only dropped on Wednesday, a couple of events dived headfirst into the new metagame, giving us a sneak peak of what's looking hot ahead of the massive showcases for the new format this weekend. They're both majors even. Ambassador, you are spoiling us etc.

As always, the brave pioneers get front and centre billing and the week's showdowns, so I've split them between the two parts to headline. One other event also used the rules updates, but not the points changes.

That means that today, I'll be covering:

Denver 40K Fight Club October Open 2024 (Rules & Points)
Malmö Wargaming Weekend 8
Battlefield Birmingham 23 (New rules only)
Mektoberfest warhammer 40k gt
Rapid Fire 2024

On Friday Lowest of Men will look at:

Toronto Fall Open 2024 (Rules & Points)
Edmonton Wargaming Open 40K
Dragons Lair Open 2024
Last of the Summer Winehammer 7
ELBCOAST CUP XIII - GT

...and our Showdowns will be:

Vanguard Ultramarines vs Bully Boyz Orks at Denver Fight Club
Realspace Drukhari vs. Hypercrypt Legion at the Toronto Fall Open

Denver 40K Fight Club October Open 2024

102-player, 6-round Grand Tournament in Denver, CO, US on October 19 2024. All the lists for this event can be found in Best Coast Pairings.

The Showdown

Take and Hold - Hidden Supplies - Search and Destroy

Ben Neal - Ultramarines (Vanguard Spearhead)

Army List - Click to Expand

Templars book when? (2000 points)

Space Marines Ultramarines Strike Force (2000 points) Vanguard Spearhead

CHARACTERS

Apothecary Biologis (95 points) • 1x Absolvor bolt pistol 1x Close combat weapon • Enhancement: The Blade Driven Deep

Captain Sicarius (85 points) • 1x Artisan plasma pistol 1x Talassarian Tempest Blade

Lieutenant with Combi-weapon (100 points) • 1x Combi-weapon 1x Paired combat blades • Enhancement: Shadow War Veteran

Marneus Calgar (185 points) • 1x Marneus Calgar • Warlord • 1x Gauntlets of Ultramar • 2x Victrix Honour Guard • 2x Victrix power sword

Uriel Ventris (75 points) • 1x Bolt Pistol 1x Invictus 1x Sword of Idaeus

DEDICATED TRANSPORTS

Impulsor (80 points) • 1x Armoured hull 2x Fragstorm grenade launcher 1x Ironhail heavy stubber 1x Shield dome

OTHER DATASHEETS

Centurion Devastator Squad (370 points) • 1x Devastator Centurion Sergeant • 1x Centurion fists 1x Centurion missile launcher 1x Twin lascannon • 5x Devastator Centurion • 5x Centurion fists 5x Centurion missile launcher 5x Twin lascannon

Company Heroes (95 points) • 1x Ancient • 1x Bolt pistol 1x Bolt rifle 1x Close combat weapon • 1x Company Champion • 1x Bolt pistol 1x Master-crafted power weapon • 2x Company Veteran • 2x Bolt pistol 2x Close combat weapon 1x Master-crafted bolt rifle 1x Master-crafted heavy bolter

Company Heroes (95 points) • 1x Ancient • 1x Bolt pistol 1x Bolt rifle 1x Close combat weapon • 1x Company Champion • 1x Bolt pistol 1x Master-crafted power weapon • 2x Company Veteran • 2x Bolt pistol 2x Close combat weapon 1x Master-crafted bolt rifle 1x Master-crafted heavy bolter

Eradicator Squad (200 points) • 1x Eradicator Sergeant • 1x Bolt pistol 1x Close combat weapon 1x Melta rifle • 5x Eradicator • 5x Bolt pistol 5x Close combat weapon 3x Melta rifle 2x Multi-melta

Inceptor Squad (130 points) • 1x Inceptor Sergeant • 1x Assault bolters 1x Close combat weapon • 2x Inceptor • 2x Assault bolters 2x Close combat weapon

Inceptor Squad (260 points) • 1x Inceptor Sergeant • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Plasma exterminators • 5x Inceptor • 5x Close combat weapon 5x Plasma exterminators

Infiltrator Squad (100 points) • 1x Infiltrator Sergeant • 1x Bolt pistol 1x Close combat weapon 1x Marksman bolt carbine • 4x Infiltrator • 4x Bolt pistol 4x Close combat weapon 1x Helix Gauntlet 1x Infiltrator Comms Array 4x Marksman bolt carbine

Scout Squad (65 points) • 1x Scout Sergeant • 1x Astartes chainsword 1x Bolt pistol 1x Close combat weapon • 4x Scout • 4x Bolt pistol 4x Boltgun 4x Close combat weapon

Scout Squad (65 points) • 1x Scout Sergeant • 1x Astartes chainsword 1x Bolt pistol 1x Close combat weapon • 4x Scout • 4x Bolt pistol 4x Boltgun 4x Close combat weapon

Exported with App Version: v1.22.0 (51), Data Version: v488

vs.

Michael Mann - Orks (Bully Boyz)

Army List - Click to Expand

OG Bully (2000 Points)

Orks Bully Boyz Strike Force (2000 Points)

CHARACTERS

Big Mek (70 Points) • 1x Drilla • 1x Kustom mega-blasta

Boss Snikrot (95 Points) • 1x Mork's Teeth • 1x Slugga

Warboss (65 Points) • 1x Attack squig • 1x Kombi-weapon • 1x Power klaw • 1x Twin sluggas

Warboss (65 Points) • 1x Attack squig • 1x Kombi-weapon • 1x Power klaw • 1x Twin sluggas

Warboss in Mega Armour (80 Points) • Warlord • 1x Big shoota • 1x 'Uge choppa

Warboss in Mega Armour (80 Points) • 1x Big shoota • 1x 'Uge choppa

Warboss in Mega Armour (105 Points) • 1x Big shoota • 1x 'Uge choppa • Enhancements: Tellyporta

BATTLELINE

Boyz (160 Points) • 19x Boy ◦ 19x Choppa ◦ 19x Slugga • 1x Boss Nob ◦ 1x Power klaw ◦ 1x Slugga

DEDICATED TRANSPORTS

Trukk (65 Points) • 1x Big shoota • 1x Spiked wheels • 1x Wreckin' ball

OTHER DATASHEETS

Battlewagon (160 Points) • 4x Big shoota • 1x Deff rolla • 1x Kannon • 1x Lobba • 1x 'Ard Case

Battlewagon (160 Points) • 4x Big shoota • 1x Deff rolla • 1x Kannon • 1x Lobba • 1x 'Ard Case

Gretchin (40 Points) • 10x Gretchin ◦ 10x Close combat weapon ◦ 10x Grot blasta • 1x Runtherd ◦ 1x Runtherd tools ◦ 1x Slugga

Gretchin (40 Points) • 10x Gretchin ◦ 10x Close combat weapon ◦ 10x Grot blasta • 1x Runtherd ◦ 1x Runtherd tools ◦ 1x Slugga

Kommandos (120 Points) • 1x Bomb Squig • 1x Distraction Grot • 9x Kommando ◦ 1x Breacha ram ◦ 8x Choppa ◦ 8x Slugga • 1x Boss Nob ◦ 1x Power klaw ◦ 1x Slugga

Meganobz (175 Points) • 5x Meganob ◦ 5x Twin killsaws

Meganobz (175 Points) • 5x Meganob ◦ 5x Twin killsaws

Meganobz (175 Points) • 5x Meganob ◦ 5x Twin killsaws

Nobz (105 Points) • 1x Ammo Runt • 1x Boss Nob ◦ 1x Power klaw ◦ 1x Slugga • 4x Nob ◦ 4x Power klaw ◦ 4x Slugga

Stormboyz (65 Points) • 4x Stormboy ◦ 4x Choppa ◦ 4x Slugga • 1x Boss Nob ◦ 1x Power klaw ◦ 1x Slugga

Exported with App Version: v1.22.0 (48), Data Version: v488

Thoughts

Our first showdown of a new era brings an obvious winner from the Dataslate (Orks, more Meganobz, good times) up against the more subtle winners from Codex Space Marines. It cannot be stressed enough how powerful a unit Uriel Ventris is now, as when taken with Company Heroes he gives you both a powerful pre-game buff to use with a shooting unit (here the classic Vanguard Centurions) and an excellent mid-field skirmishing piece that saps your opponent's Command Points and will to live. To really double down on that skirmishing capability, this build adds in a second unit of Company Heroes with Sicarius, who lets them Scout an Impulsor into position for staging, then start wandering around decking stuff and causing headaches with reactive moves.

The fact that this list has the triple threat of a Stratagem for charge dodging, Sicarius' reactive move and the CP-sapping from Ventris is, shall we say, a bit of a problem for Bully Boyz, who really rely on their big turns going big, and who can run out of stuff quite sharply if they don't (and their opponent has the killing power, which yeah this lot absolutely does). On this map/mission their choices are likely either to go ham up front and see if they can bowl the Marines over before they set up, or play cautious with the extra objectives and hope the Ultramarines get cocky and overextend. I think that's going to be really hard to land though, as the Marines have much better shooting reach via teleporting Centurions and the big Inceptor unit. I think it's really, really hard for the Orks to deal with their foes here, and I'm kind of short of bright ideas for what to do about it. Given the score, I'm guessing they took a pretty cautious line, but weren't able to overturn the inevitable.

Result

Space Marines (Astartes) (Vanguard Spearhead) Victory - 100 - 74

Ben Neal - Ultramarines (Vanguard Spearhead) - 1st Place

Marneus Calgar Credit: Alfredo Ramirez

The List

Army List - Click to Expand

Archetype

Vanguard Superfriends

Thoughts

The dymanic trio of Ventris, Calgar and Sicarius notch one up for Macragge here, and it really feels like this build (with the Sicarius addition) is poised for another tilt at the top, as it's stronger than ever with the new changes, and the general power of the top of the metagame has been tuned down. One to watch, and well done Ben for grabbing the first trophy.

Matt Evans - Tyranids (Synaptic Nexus) - 2nd Place

Zoanthropes. Credit: Rockfish

The List

Army List - Click to Expand

Synaptic Norns (1990 points)

Tyranids Strike Force (2000 points) Synaptic Nexus

CHARACTERS

Deathleaper (80 points) • 1x Lictor claws and talons

Hive Tyrant (255 points) • 1x Monstrous bonesword and lash whip 1x Monstrous scything talons • Enhancement: Synaptic Control

Neurotyrant (115 points) • Warlord • 1x Neurotyrant claws and lashes 1x Psychic scream • Enhancement: Power of the Hive Mind

Parasite of Mortrex (95 points) • 1x Barbed ovipositor 1x Clawed limbs • Enhancement: The Dirgeheart of Kharis (Aura)

The Swarmlord (240 points) • 1x Bone sabres 1x Synaptic pulse

OTHER DATASHEETS

Biovores (50 points) • 1x Chitin-barbed limbs 1x Spore Mine launcher

Exocrine (135 points) • 1x Bio-plasmic cannon 1x Powerful limbs

Exocrine (135 points) • 1x Bio-plasmic cannon 1x Powerful limbs

Exocrine (135 points) • 1x Bio-plasmic cannon 1x Powerful limbs

Norn Emissary (275 points) • 1x Monstrous rending claws 1x Monstrous scything talons 1x Psychic Tendril

Norn Emissary (275 points) • 1x Monstrous rending claws 1x Monstrous scything talons 1x Psychic Tendril

Zoanthropes (200 points) • 1x Neurothrope • 1x Chitinous claws and teeth 1x Warp Blast • 5x Zoanthrope • 5x Chitinous claws and teeth 5x Warp Blast

Exported with App Version: v1.21.0 (49), Data Version: v469

Archetype

Synaptic Monster Mash

Thoughts

In second place we've got another build sporting a CP debuff aura and packing a detachment that's verypotent, but maybe slightly too fair to thrive in the pre-update metagame. Now, the combination of big tough monsters (Norns and the Tyrants) and absolutely devastating shooting from the Zoanthrope unit (helped by Exocrines) creates a formidible wall of bio-engineered pain for foes to break against. It also has a nice little extra sting in the tail from the extra morale-debuffing Parasite, which can set up an exceptional Shadow in the Warp turn to flip things mid-game, or perhaps disrupt Secret Missions at the end in critical circumstances. A daunting list to face off against, and really cool to see this detachment getting airtime, well done Matt.

Michael Mann - Orks (Bully Boyz) - 3rd Place

Meganobz. Credit: Rockfish

The List

Army List - Click to Expand

Archetype

Bully Boyz (are back in town)

Thoughts

No surprise to see the Bullyz crashing back into the fray now that Meganobz come with a more reasonable price tag, and though thwarted by the Ultramarines at the end, Michael had a great run through the event, smashing several top lists. I like the addition of the Big Mek/Warboss Boyz unit, imported from other recent successes, as it helps you really lock in your big pressure turns, vital for this army. Great work from Michael.

Colin Kay - Dark Angels (Gladius Task Force) - 4th Place

The Lion. Credit: Jack Hunter

The List

Army List - Click to Expand

At this point who knows what's good (1995 Points)

Space Marines Dark Angels Gladius Task Force Strike Force (2000 Points)

CHARACTERS

Azrael (115 Points) • 1x Lion's Wrath • 1x The Lion Helm • 1x The Sword of Secrets

Captain (95 Points) • 1x Bolt Pistol • 1x Master-crafted bolter • 1x Power fist • Enhancements: The Honour Vehement

Judiciar (70 Points) • 1x Absolvor bolt pistol • 1x Executioner relic blade

Judiciar (70 Points) • 1x Absolvor bolt pistol • 1x Executioner relic blade

Librarian in Phobos Armour (70 Points) • 1x Bolt pistol • 1x Force weapon • 1x Smite

Lieutenant with Combi-weapon (70 Points) • 1x Combi-weapon • 1x Paired combat blades

Lieutenant with Combi-weapon (70 Points) • 1x Combi-weapon • 1x Paired combat blades

Lion El'Jonson (285 Points) • Warlord • 1x Arma Luminis • 1x Fealty

BATTLELINE

Assault Intercessor Squad (75 Points) • 1x Assault Intercessor Sergeant ◦ 1x Plasma pistol ◦ 1x Power fist • 4x Assault Intercessor ◦ 4x Astartes chainsword ◦ 4x Heavy bolt pistol

Assault Intercessor Squad (75 Points) • 1x Assault Intercessor Sergeant ◦ 1x Plasma pistol ◦ 1x Power fist • 4x Assault Intercessor ◦ 4x Astartes chainsword ◦ 4x Heavy bolt pistol

OTHER DATASHEETS

Infiltrator Squad (100 Points) • 1x Infiltrator Sergeant ◦ 1x Bolt pistol ◦ 1x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Marksman bolt carbine • 4x Infiltrator ◦ 4x Bolt pistol ◦ 4x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Helix Gauntlet ◦ 1x Infiltrator Comms Array ◦ 4x Marksman bolt carbine

Inner Circle Companions (180 Points) • 6x Inner Circle Companion ◦ 6x Calibanite greatsword ◦ 6x Heavy bolt pistol

Inner Circle Companions (180 Points) • 6x Inner Circle Companion ◦ 6x Calibanite greatsword ◦ 6x Heavy bolt pistol

Whirlwind (180 Points) • 1x Armoured tracks • 1x Hunter-killer missile • 1x Storm bolter • 1x Whirlwind vengeance launcher

Whirlwind (180 Points) • 1x Armoured tracks • 1x Hunter-killer missile • 1x Storm bolter • 1x Whirlwind vengeance launcher

Whirlwind (180 Points) • 1x Armoured tracks • 1x Hunter-killer missile • 1x Storm bolter • 1x Whirlwind vengeance launcher

Exported with App Version: v1.22.0 (48), Data Version: v488

Archetype

The Lion's Den

Thoughts

Rounding out the top four, Colin unleashes a particularly chaotic spin on Dark Angels here with the hilarious plan of pounding foes with Whirlwings till they're forced to push upwards, then revealing a suite of units that makes close quarters combat about the most nightmarish thing ever. Add in bonus Lone Operatives for when someone has to go stand on an objective, I guess, and you've got a really tricky and very dangerous army, which was only defeated by the sheer brute force unleashed by the Bully Boyz above. Well done Colin.

The Best of the Rest

There were 5 more players on 5-1 records. They were:

5th - Lane Nusbaum - Astra Militarum: Double Dorn, and still double Bullgryns, immediately hammering home just how wild the old price was. Also a unit of Aquilons out doing mischief.
6th - John Holbrook - Chaos Space Marines (Renegade Raiders): The triple Rhino transport brawler classic here, backed by some Bikers for cheap harrassment and point grabbing and some Destructors for Gun.
7th - Miguel Fuentes - Tyranids (Invasion Fleet): Big shooty bugs, efficient board control, and a big brick of melee Warriors, presumably as a cost-effective place to drop free Stratagems from a Hive Tyrant.
8th - Patrick Love - Genestealer Cult (Biosanctic Broodsurge): Triple MSU Aberrants with an Abominant each, Purestrains and a truck full of Metamorphs for early aggro, Ridgerunners to blast stuff.
9th - Maxxwell Myers - Dark Angels (Gladius Task Force): Don't want to alarm you, but +15pts per unit still leaves triple Deathwing Knights as a pretty good choice.

Malmö Wargaming Weekend 8

120-player, 5-round Grand Tournament in Skåne län, SE on October 19 2024. All the lists for this event can be found in Best Coast Pairings.

Björn Eriksson - Astra Militarum (Combined Regiment) - 1st Place

Bullgryn. Credit: Corrode

The List

Army List - Click to Expand

Bullfest 2: Electric Boogaloo (2000 points)

Themesong:

Astra Militarum Strike Force (2000 points) Combined Regiment

CHARACTERS

Lord Solar Leontus (125 points) • Warlord • 1x Conquest 1x Konstantin's hooves 1x Sol's Righteous Gaze

Militarum Tempestus Command Squad (70 points) • 1x Tempestor Prime • 1x Plasma pistol 1x Tempestus dagger • 4x Tempestus Scion • 4x Close combat weapon 1x Hot-shot lasgun 1x Hot-shot laspistol 1x Hot-shot volley gun 1x Medi-pack 1x Meltagun 1x Plasma gun

Militarum Tempestus Command Squad (70 points) • 1x Tempestor Prime • 1x Plasma pistol 1x Tempestus dagger • 4x Tempestus Scion • 4x Close combat weapon 1x Hot-shot lasgun 1x Hot-shot laspistol 1x Hot-shot volley gun 1x Medi-pack 1x Meltagun 1x Plasma gun

Platoon Command Squad (60 points) • 1x Platoon Commander • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Plasma pistol 1x Power fist • 2x Veteran Guardsman • 2x Close combat weapon 2x Lasgun 2x Laspistol 1x Master Vox 1x Regimental Standard • 1x Veteran Heavy Weapons Team • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Laspistol 1x Mortar

BATTLELINE

Catachan Jungle Fighters (55 points) • 1x Jungle Fighter Sergeant • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Laspistol • 9x Jungle Fighter • 9x Close combat weapon 2x Flamer 7x Lasgun

Catachan Jungle Fighters (55 points) • 1x Jungle Fighter Sergeant • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Laspistol • 9x Jungle Fighter • 9x Close combat weapon 2x Flamer 7x Lasgun

Infantry Squad (60 points) • 1x Sergeant • 1x Plasma pistol 1x Power weapon • 7x Guardsman • 7x Close combat weapon 6x Lasgun 1x Plasma gun • 1x Heavy Weapons Team • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Laspistol 1x Mortar

DEDICATED TRANSPORTS

Chimera (70 points) • 1x Armoured tracks 1x Chimera heavy flamer 1x Heavy flamer 1x Heavy stubber 1x Hunter-killer missile 1x Lasgun array

Chimera (70 points) • 1x Armoured tracks 1x Chimera heavy flamer 1x Heavy flamer 1x Heavy stubber 1x Hunter-killer missile 1x Lasgun array

OTHER DATASHEETS

Bullgryn Squad (180 points) • 1x Bullgryn Bone 'ead • 1x Brute Shield 1x Bullgryn maul 1x Close combat weapon • 5x Bullgryn • 5x Brute Shield 5x Bullgryn maul 5x Close combat weapon

Bullgryn Squad (180 points) • 1x Bullgryn Bone 'ead • 1x Brute Shield 1x Bullgryn maul 1x Close combat weapon • 5x Bullgryn • 5x Brute Shield 5x Bullgryn maul 5x Close combat weapon

Bullgryn Squad (180 points) • 1x Bullgryn Bone 'ead • 1x Brute Shield 1x Bullgryn maul 1x Close combat weapon • 5x Bullgryn • 5x Brute Shield 5x Bullgryn maul 5x Close combat weapon

Hellhound (115 points) • 1x Armoured tracks 1x Heavy bolter 1x Hunter-killer missile 1x Inferno cannon

Leman Russ Battle Tank (170 points) • 1x Armoured tracks 1x Heavy stubber 1x Hunter-killer missile 1x Lascannon 1x Leman Russ battle cannon 2x Multi-melta

Leman Russ Battle Tank (170 points) • 1x Armoured tracks 1x Heavy stubber 1x Hunter-killer missile 1x Lascannon 1x Leman Russ battle cannon 2x Multi-melta

Leman Russ Exterminator (170 points) • 1x Armoured tracks 1x Exterminator autocannon 1x Heavy stubber 1x Hunter-killer missile 1x Lascannon 2x Multi-melta

Tempestus Scions (100 points) • 1x Tempestor • 1x Plasma pistol 1x Power fist • 9x Tempestus Scion • 9x Close combat weapon 5x Hot-shot lasgun 2x Meltagun 2x Plasma gun

Tempestus Scions (100 points) • 1x Tempestor • 1x Plasma pistol 1x Power fist • 9x Tempestus Scion • 9x Close combat weapon 5x Hot-shot lasgun 2x Meltagun 2x Plasma gun

Exported with App Version: v1.21.0 (49), Data Version: v469

Archetype

Bullgryn and Drop Scions

Thoughts

Imagine a world where Bullgryn cost 180pts for a unit. Horrible thought. Anyway - classic tarpit and dakka Astra Militarum here, going for two full drop Scion units to really drop the hammer on turns two and three. Great work Björn

Joakim Engström - Tyranids (Invasion Fleet) - 2nd Place (Undefeated)

Exocrine. Credit: Rockfish

The List

Army List - Click to Expand

Invasion (2000 points)

Tyranids Strike Force (2000 points) Invasion Fleet

CHARACTERS

Hive Tyrant (260 points) • Warlord • 1x Heavy venom cannon 1x Monstrous bonesword and lash whip • Enhancement: Adaptive Biology

Neurotyrant (105 points) • 1x Neurotyrant claws and lashes 1x Psychic scream

Winged Tyranid Prime (65 points) • 1x Prime talons

BATTLELINE

Gargoyles (85 points) • 10x Gargoyle • 10x Blinding venom 10x Fleshborer

Hormagaunts (65 points) • 10x Hormagaunt • 10x Hormagaunt talons

Hormagaunts (65 points) • 10x Hormagaunt • 10x Hormagaunt talons

Hormagaunts (65 points) • 10x Hormagaunt • 10x Hormagaunt talons

Termagants (60 points) • 10x Termagant • 10x Chitinous claws and teeth 10x Fleshborer

OTHER DATASHEETS

Biovores (50 points) • 1x Chitin-barbed limbs 1x Spore Mine launcher

Exocrine (135 points) • 1x Bio-plasmic cannon 1x Powerful limbs

Exocrine (135 points) • 1x Bio-plasmic cannon 1x Powerful limbs

Exocrine (135 points) • 1x Bio-plasmic cannon 1x Powerful limbs

Lictor (55 points) • 1x Lictor claws and talons

Maleceptor (170 points) • 1x Massive scything talons 1x Psychic overload

Neurolictor (90 points) • 1x Piercing claws and talons

Pyrovores (35 points) • 1x Chitin-barbed limbs 1x Flamespurt

Raveners (75 points) • 3x Ravener • 3x Armoured Thorax 3x Ravener claws and talons

Tyranid Warriors with Melee Bio-weapons (150 points) • 1x Tyranid Prime • 1x Tyranid Warrior claws and talons • 5x Tyranid Warrior • 5x Tyranid Warrior claws and talons

Zoanthropes (200 points) • 1x Neurothrope • 1x Chitinous claws and teeth 1x Warp Blast • 5x Zoanthrope • 5x Chitinous claws and teeth 5x Warp Blast

Exported with App Version: v1.21.0 (49), Data Version: v469

Archetype

All-rounder Invasion Fleet

Thoughts

A pleasingly balanced list in second place here, taking advantage of the flexible nature of the Invasion Fleet Detachment Rule and Stratagems to create a toolbox, with extra Hormagaunts to either flip objectives or do cunning point-grabbing shenanigans via Endless Swarm. I love a toolbox army, and I'm a particular fan of all the neat tricks you can pull off with the Warrior unit here, who deliver a mix of emergency tarpit and all-purpose blender. Add in Exocrines to soften the foe up plus the ever useful Neurotyrant-powered Shadow and you've got tricks to take on all comers, which Joakim thoroughly succeeded at.

Olof Svensson - Genestealer Cult (Host of Ascension) - 3rd Place

GSC Rockgrinders. Credit - Soggy

The List

Army List - Click to Expand

Is this good or just fun?

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ + FACTION KEYWORD: Xenos - Genestealer Cults + DETACHMENT: Host of Ascension + TOTAL ARMY POINTS: 1995pts + + WARLORD: Char1: Primus + ENHANCEMENT: A Chink in Their Armour (on Char1: Primus) + NUMBER OF UNITS: 21 + SECONDARY: - Bring It Down: (6x2) + (2x4) - Assassination: 1 Characters - Cull The Horde: 1x5 +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Char1: 1x Primus (110 pts): Warlord, A Chink in Their Armour, Cult Bonesword, Scoped Needle Pistol, Toxin Injector Claw

5x Acolyte Hybrids with Autopistols (70 pts) • 4x Acolyte Hybrid 1 with Cult Icon, Cult Claws and Knife 3 with Heavy Mining Tool • 1x Acolyte Leader: Autopistol, Leader's Bio-weapons 5x Acolyte Hybrids with Hand Flamers (75 pts) • 1x Acolyte Leader: Leader's Cult Weapons, Hand Flamer • 4x Acolyte Hybrid: 4 with Cult Claws and Knife, Hand Flamer 5x Acolyte Hybrids with Hand Flamers (75 pts) • 1x Acolyte Leader: Leader's Cult Weapons, Hand Flamer • 4x Acolyte Hybrid: 4 with Cult Claws and Knife, Hand Flamer 5x Acolyte Hybrids with Hand Flamers (75 pts) • 1x Acolyte Leader: Leader's Cult Weapons, Hand Flamer • 4x Acolyte Hybrid: 4 with Cult Claws and Knife, Hand Flamer 5x Acolyte Hybrids with Hand Flamers (75 pts) • 1x Acolyte Leader: Leader's Cult Weapons, Hand Flamer • 4x Acolyte Hybrid: 4 with Cult Claws and Knife, Hand Flamer 5x Acolyte Hybrids with Hand Flamers (75 pts) • 1x Acolyte Leader: Leader's Cult Weapons, Hand Flamer • 4x Acolyte Hybrid: 4 with Cult Claws and Knife, Hand Flamer 10x Neophyte Hybrids (70 pts) • 9x Neophyte Hybrid 1 with Autopistol, Close Combat Weapon, Mining Laser 1 with Autopistol, Close Combat Weapon, Seismic Cannon 4 with Autopistol, Close Combat Weapon, Hybrid Firearm 1 with Cult Icon, Autopistol, Close Combat Weapon, Hybrid Firearm 1 with Autopistol, Close Combat Weapon, Webber 1 with Autopistol, Close Combat Weapon, Flamer • 1x Neophyte Leader: Autopistol, Close Combat Weapon, Hybrid Firearm 10x Neophyte Hybrids (70 pts) • 9x Neophyte Hybrid 1 with Autopistol, Close Combat Weapon, Mining Laser 1 with Autopistol, Close Combat Weapon, Seismic Cannon 4 with Autopistol, Close Combat Weapon, Hybrid Firearm 1 with Cult Icon, Autopistol, Close Combat Weapon, Hybrid Firearm 1 with Autopistol, Close Combat Weapon, Flamer 1 with Autopistol, Close Combat Weapon, Webber • 1x Neophyte Leader: Autopistol, Close Combat Weapon, Hybrid Firearm 20x Neophyte Hybrids (140 pts) • 19x Neophyte Hybrid 2 with Autopistol, Close Combat Weapon, Heavy stubber 2 with Autopistol, Close Combat Weapon, Seismic Cannon 10 with Autopistol, Close Combat Weapon, Hybrid Firearm 1 with Cult Icon, Autopistol, Close Combat Weapon, Hybrid Firearm 2 with Autopistol, Close Combat Weapon, Grenade Launcher 2 with Autopistol, Close Combat Weapon, Webber • 1x Neophyte Leader: Autopistol, Close Combat Weapon, Hybrid Firearm

5x Purestrain Genestealers (75 pts): 5 with Cult Claws and Talons 5x Atalan Jackals (90 pts) • 4x Atalan Jackal 2 with Atalan Small Arms, Close Combat Weapon 1 with Atalan Small Arms, Power Weapon 1 with Atalan Power Weapon, Grenade Launcher • 1x Atalan Wolfquad: Atalan Small Arms, Close Combat Weapon, Atalan Incinerator 5x Atalan Jackals (90 pts) • 4x Atalan Jackal 2 with Atalan Small Arms, Close Combat Weapon 1 with Atalan Small Arms, Power Weapon 1 with Atalan Power Weapon, Grenade Launcher • 1x Atalan Wolfquad: Atalan Small Arms, Close Combat Weapon, Atalan Incinerator 2x Achilles Ridgerunners (150 pts): 2 with Spotter, Armoured Hull, Twin Heavy Stubber, Heavy Mining Laser 2x Achilles Ridgerunners (150 pts): 2 with Spotter, Armoured Hull, Twin Heavy Stubber, Heavy Mining Laser 1x Achilles Ridgerunners (75 pts): Survey Augur, Armoured Hull, Twin Heavy Stubber, Heavy Mortar 1x Goliath Rockgrinder (120 pts): Demolition Charge Cache, Drilldozer Blade, Heavy Stubber, Clearance Incinerator 1x Goliath Rockgrinder (120 pts): Demolition Charge Cache, Drilldozer Blade, Heavy Stubber, Clearance Incinerator 1x Goliath Rockgrinder (120 pts): Demolition Charge Cache, Drilldozer Blade, Heavy Stubber, Clearance Incinerator 1x Goliath Truck (85 pts): Demolition Charge Cache, Goliath Wheels, Heavy Stubber, Twin Autocannon 1x Goliath Truck (85 pts): Demolition Charge Cache, Goliath Wheels, Heavy Stubber, Twin Autocannon

Archetype

Mechanised Ascension

Thoughts

An interesting GSC build in third place, presumably extremely excited about the bonus point infusion it's about to receive. The plan here seems to be to use the heavy suite of Transports to ensure that it takes foes longer than usual to clear out the first wave of objective play pieces, hammer them with the shooting from the Ridgerunners and big Neophyte brick, then lean on the new version of Return to the Shadows plus respawns to get over the line. Going for only one big Neophyte brick is unusual for Host of Ascension but it significantly powers up Return to the Shadows, because it means that the opponent is capped at only getting full value out of one big anti-horde unit in a given turn. Means you have to be careful about placement, but because you can fully focus on that one squad for Stratagems etc., you have plenty of ways of doing that. Going low on Characters also removes a vulnerability to Assassinate that Cults can sometimes have, reducing the threat of cautious counter-strategies. Pleasingly devious, expect to see more of it, well done Olof.

Jonatan Holm - Imperial Knights (Noble Lance) - 4th Place

Imperial Knight Lancer. Credit: Jack Hunter

The List

Army List - Click to Expand

Test (1995 Points)

Imperial Knights Noble Lance Strike Force (2000 Points)

CHARACTERS

Canis Rex (435 Points) • Warlord • 1x Chainbreaker las-impulsor • 1x Chainbreaker multi-laser • 1x Freedom's Hand

Cerastus Knight Lancer (430 Points) • 1x Cerastus shock lance

BATTLELINE

Armiger Helverin (140 Points) • 2x Armiger autocannon • 1x Armoured feet • 1x Questoris heavy stubber

Armiger Helverin (140 Points) • 2x Armiger autocannon • 1x Armoured feet • 1x Questoris heavy stubber

Armiger Warglaive (150 Points) • 1x Questoris heavy stubber • 1x Reaper chain-cleaver • 1x Thermal spear

Armiger Warglaive (150 Points) • 1x Meltagun • 1x Reaper chain-cleaver • 1x Thermal spear

Armiger Warglaive (150 Points) • 1x Questoris heavy stubber • 1x Reaper chain-cleaver • 1x Thermal spear

Armiger Warglaive (150 Points) • 1x Questoris heavy stubber • 1x Reaper chain-cleaver • 1x Thermal spear

Armiger Warglaive (150 Points) • 1x Questoris heavy stubber • 1x Reaper chain-cleaver • 1x Thermal spear

ALLIED UNITS

Callidus Assassin (100 Points) • 1x Neural shredder • 1x Phase sword and poison blades

Archetype

Aggro Double Bigs

Thoughts

Sally forth, smash the foe, things of this nature. This isn't a complex army, but Knights in general have been doing surprisingly OK right at the tail end of the previous metagame, so with a (presumed) reduction in the number of games where Thousand Sons instantly reduce their big robots to a soup-like homogenate, they're probably decently placed for the future. Thanks to having five points floating, this build can even cover the small increase on Canis just by dropping one Warglaive to a Helverin. Congratulations to Jonatan for upholding the noble arts of chivalry and suchlike.

The Best of the Rest

There were 12 more players on 4-1+ records. They were:

5th (4.5-0.5) - Johan Norrman - Astra Militarum: Triple Bullgryn, lots of Russes.
6th - Joel Larsson - Dark Angels (Gladius Task Force): Deathwing GTF Classic.
7th - Pontus Koch - Ultramarines (Gladius Task Force): Terrifying mid-board presence from three units of Company Heroes with Calgar, Sicarius and Ventris, then various flexible shooting/scoring options behind them.
8th - Rickard Stormhammar - Adeptus Mechanicus (Skitarii Hunter Cohort): Loads of Ironstriders and Sterylizors, with extra hammers from a Breacher unit and a Ruststalker brick.
9th - Emil Söderholm - World Eaters: Jackhals and Eightbound galore alongside Invocatus and Angron.
10th - Emanuel Meramveliotakis - Adeptus Custodes (Talons of the Emperor): Wardens, Venatari and Caladius Tanks with some Sisters to provide protection.
11th - Jort Kassies - Grey Knights: Dreadknights and a big Paladin brick.
12th - Benny Petersson - Tyranids (Assimilation Swarm): A Nornand a melee Warrior brick being endlessly fed by Psychophages.
=13th - Wilhelm Törnered - Necrons (Hypercrypt Legion): Monolith toolbox Hypercrypt with a big squad each of Heavy Lokhusts and Skorpekh, then lots of small units.
=13th - Daniel Fragtrup - Chaos Space Marines (Renegade Raiders): A bunch of units to watch here, as they all went down in points; Obliterators, Possessed, Havocs and a big unit of Terminators all teaming up.
15th - Jacob Edvinsson - World Eaters: Maximum Eightbound MSUs alongside lots of Spawn.
16th - Cees Jan Stam - Drukhari (Skysplinter Assault): A final (?) outing for Beastmasters in multiples, but more promise for the future from Ravagers.

Battlefield Birmingham 23

71-player, 5-round Grand Tournament in England, GB on October 19 2024. All the lists for this event can be found in Best Coast Pairings.

Nassim Fouchane - Astra Militarum (Combined Regiment) - 1st Place

Hellhound. Credit: Rockfish

The List

Army List - Click to Expand

Slaughter of Birmingham (1995 Points)

Aquilons & Bullgryns did nothing wrong, don't nerf them

Astra Militarum Combined Regiment Strike Force (2000 Points)

CHARACTERS

Cadian Command Squad (65 Points) • 1x Cadian Commander ◦ 1x Plasma pistol ◦ 1x Power fist • 1x Cadian Veteran Guardsman ◦ 1x Plasma pistol ◦ 1x Power fist • 1x Cadian Veteran Guardsman with Master Vox ◦ 1x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Lasgun ◦ 1x Master Vox • 1x Cadian Veteran Guardsman with Medi-pack ◦ 1x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Lasgun ◦ 1x Medi-pack • 1x Cadian Veteran Guardsman with Regimental Standard ◦ 1x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Lasgun ◦ 1x Regimental Standard

Lord Solar Leontus (125 Points) • Warlord • 1x Conquest • 1x Konstantin's hooves • 1x Sol's Righteous Gaze

Militarum Tempestus Command Squad (70 Points) • 1x Tempestor Prime ◦ 1x Command Rod ◦ 1x Tempestus dagger • 4x Tempestus Scion ◦ 4x Close combat weapon ◦ 2x Hot-shot lasgun ◦ 1x Hot-shot laspistol ◦ 1x Hot-shot volley gun ◦ 1x Medi-pack ◦ 1x Plasma gun ◦ 1x Regimental Standard

Tank Commander (220 Points) • 1x Armoured tracks • 1x Demolisher battle cannon • 1x Heavy stubber • 1x Hunter-killer missile • 1x Lascannon • 2x Militarum plasma cannon • Enhancements: Grand Strategist

BATTLELINE

Cadian Shock Troops (60 Points) • 1x Shock Trooper Sergeant ◦ 1x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Drum-fed autogun • 9x Shock Trooper ◦ 9x Close combat weapon ◦ 7x Lasgun ◦ 1x Meltagun ◦ 1x Plasma gun ◦ 1x Vox-caster

Catachan Jungle Fighters (55 Points) • 1x Jungle Fighter Sergeant ◦ 1x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Laspistol • 9x Jungle Fighter ◦ 9x Close combat weapon ◦ 2x Flamer ◦ 7x Lasgun ◦ 1x Vox-caster

Catachan Jungle Fighters (55 Points) • 1x Jungle Fighter Sergeant ◦ 1x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Laspistol • 9x Jungle Fighter ◦ 9x Close combat weapon ◦ 2x Flamer ◦ 7x Lasgun ◦ 1x Vox-caster

DEDICATED TRANSPORTS

Chimera (70 Points) • 1x Armoured tracks • 1x Chimera heavy flamer • 1x Heavy flamer • 1x Heavy stubber • 1x Hunter-killer missile • 1x Lasgun array

OTHER DATASHEETS

Bullgryn Squad (180 Points) • 1x Bullgryn Bone 'ead ◦ 1x Brute Shield ◦ 1x Bullgryn maul ◦ 1x Close combat weapon • 5x Bullgryn ◦ 5x Brute Shield ◦ 5x Bullgryn maul ◦ 5x Close combat weapon

Bullgryn Squad (180 Points) • 1x Bullgryn Bone 'ead ◦ 1x Brute Shield ◦ 1x Bullgryn maul ◦ 1x Close combat weapon • 5x Bullgryn ◦ 5x Brute Shield ◦ 5x Bullgryn maul ◦ 5x Close combat weapon

Bullgryn Squad (180 Points) • 1x Bullgryn Bone 'ead ◦ 1x Brute Shield ◦ 1x Bullgryn maul ◦ 1x Close combat weapon • 5x Bullgryn ◦ 5x Brute Shield ◦ 5x Bullgryn maul ◦ 5x Close combat weapon

Hellhound (115 Points) • 1x Armoured tracks • 1x Hunter-killer missile • 1x Inferno cannon • 1x Multi-melta

Leman Russ Battle Tank (170 Points) • 1x Armoured tracks • 1x Heavy stubber • 1x Hunter-killer missile • 1x Lascannon • 1x Leman Russ battle cannon • 2x Multi-melta

Leman Russ Battle Tank (170 Points) • 1x Armoured tracks • 1x Heavy stubber • 1x Hunter-killer missile • 1x Lascannon • 1x Leman Russ battle cannon • 2x Multi-melta

Tempestus Scions (100 Points) • 1x Tempestor ◦ 1x Plasma pistol ◦ 1x Power fist • 9x Tempestus Scion ◦ 9x Close combat weapon ◦ 5x Hot-shot lasgun ◦ 2x Hot-shot volley gun ◦ 2x Plasma gun

Tempestus Aquilons (90 points)

- 1x Tempestor with Flamer Sentry - 8x Aquilons with hot shot lascarbine - 1x Aquilons with Plasma Carbine - 1x Aquilons with hot shot long las

Tempestus Aquilons (90 points)

- 1x Tempestor with Flamer Sentry - 8x Aquilons with hot shot lascarbine - 1x Aquilons with Plasma Carbine - 1x Aquilons with hot shot long las

Archetype

Liminal Brutality

Thoughts

Thanks to the alignment of which updates were in play here, Nassim's opponents get the dubious pleasure of experiencing both cheap Bullgryn and enhanced Tank Commanders at the same time, which I'm sure was simply thrilling. That said, I'm not wildly convinced that having to cut one Bullgryn squad in half and maybe dip a Russ down to a Vanquisher or something is going to massively halt Nas' upcoming reign of terror, so if you're planning on winning any majors in the UK in the near future, start taking notes.

Christopher Radford - Space Wolves (Champions of Russ) - 2nd Place (Undefeated)

Photo cred: Riley Trembley

The List

Army List - Click to Expand

SW - 20 Wulfen/20 Claws (1995 points)

Space Marines Space Wolves Strike Force (2000 points) Champions of Russ

CHARACTERS

Bjorn the Fell-Handed (180 points) • Warlord • 1x Assault cannon 1x Heavy flamer 1x Trueclaw

Captain with Jump Pack (85 points) • 1x Plasma pistol 1x Power fist

Logan Grimnar (100 points) • 1x Storm bolter 1x The Axe Morkai

Ragnar Blackmane (90 points) • 1x Bolt Pistol 1x Frostfang

Ulrik the Slayer (70 points) • 1x Artificer crozius 1x Plasma pistol

BATTLELINE

Blood Claws (140 points) • 1x Blood Claw Pack Leader • 1x Plasma pistol 1x Power fist • 9x Blood Claw • 9x Astartes chainsword 9x Bolt pistol

Blood Claws (140 points) • 1x Blood Claw Pack Leader • 1x Plasma pistol 1x Power fist • 9x Blood Claw • 9x Astartes chainsword 9x Bolt pistol

DEDICATED TRANSPORTS

Rhino (75 points) • 1x Armoured tracks 1x Hunter-killer missile 1x Storm bolter

Rhino (75 points) • 1x Armoured tracks 1x Hunter-killer missile 1x Storm bolter

OTHER DATASHEETS

Assault Intercessors with Jump Packs (80 points) • 1x Assault Intercessor Sergeant with Jump Pack • 1x Plasma pistol 1x Power fist • 4x Assault Intercessors with Jump Packs • 4x Astartes chainsword 3x Heavy bolt pistol 1x Plasma pistol

Assault Intercessors with Jump Packs (80 points) • 1x Assault Intercessor Sergeant with Jump Pack • 1x Plasma pistol 1x Power fist • 4x Assault Intercessors with Jump Packs • 4x Astartes chainsword 3x Heavy bolt pistol 1x Plasma pistol

Assault Intercessors with Jump Packs (80 points) • 1x Assault Intercessor Sergeant with Jump Pack • 1x Plasma pistol 1x Power fist • 4x Assault Intercessors with Jump Packs • 4x Astartes chainsword 3x Heavy bolt pistol 1x Plasma pistol

Infiltrator Squad (100 points) • 1x Infiltrator Sergeant • 1x Bolt pistol 1x Close combat weapon 1x Marksman bolt carbine • 4x Infiltrator • 4x Bolt pistol 4x Close combat weapon 1x Helix Gauntlet 1x Infiltrator Comms Array 4x Marksman bolt carbine

Scout Squad (65 points) • 1x Scout Sergeant • 1x Astartes chainsword 1x Bolt pistol 1x Close combat weapon • 4x Scout • 4x Bolt pistol 4x Close combat weapon 2x Combat knife 1x Missile launcher 1x Scout sniper rifle

Scout Squad (65 points) • 1x Scout Sergeant • 1x Astartes chainsword 1x Bolt pistol 1x Close combat weapon • 4x Scout • 4x Bolt pistol 4x Close combat weapon 2x Combat knife 1x Missile launcher 1x Scout sniper rifle

Vanguard Veteran Squad with Jump Packs (210 points) • 1x Vanguard Veteran Sergeant with Jump Pack • 1x Storm Shield 1x Vanguard Veteran weapon • 9x Vanguard Veteran with Jump Pack • 9x Storm Shield 9x Vanguard Veteran weapon

Wulfen (180 points) • 1x Wulfen Pack Leader • 1x Storm Shield 1x Stormfrag auto-launcher 1x Wulfen hammer • 9x Wulfen • 9x Storm Shield 9x Stormfrag auto-launcher 9x Wulfen hammer

Wulfen (180 points) • 1x Wulfen Pack Leader • 1x Storm Shield 1x Stormfrag auto-launcher 1x Wulfen hammer • 9x Wulfen • 9x Storm Shield 9x Stormfrag auto-launcher 9x Wulfen hammer

Exported with App Version: v1.21.0 (49), Data Version: v469

Archetype

Wolf Brawl

Thoughts

An intriuging brawler build in undefeated second here, also picking up a (more minor) boost from the new rules now that you can get the "bonus" effects on Saga-keyed Stratagems when using Warrior Pride. Here that mostly feels like it helps the big Blood Claw or VanVet bricks get access to a Go for the Throat full hammer blow prior to Saga of the Beastslayer going up for the army, without needing to compromise on access to Advance/Charge from activating Warrior Born at game start. That helps ensure that the hefty infantry complement here can take on all comers and maraud around the board at pace, creating an intimidating pressure force that doesn't get hit as hard by some of the points changes as most Space Wolves armies. Great stuff from Chris.

Matt Bell - Necrons (Hypercrypt Legion) - 3rd Place

Monolith with Death Rays. Credit: Rockfish

The List

Army List - Click to Expand

Big Bonks (1995 points)

Necrons Strike Force (2000 points) Hypercrypt Legion

CHARACTERS

Hexmark Destroyer (70 points) • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Enmitic disintegrator pistols

The Silent King (420 points) • 1x Szarekh • Warlord • 1x Sceptre of Eternal Glory 1x Staff of Stars 1x Weapons of the Final Triarch • 2x Triarchal Menhir • 2x Annihilator beam 2x Armoured bulk

BATTLELINE

Immortals (75 points) • 5x Immortal • 5x Close combat weapon 5x Tesla carbine

OTHER DATASHEETS

Canoptek Spyders (75 points) • 1x Automaton claws 1x Fabricator Claw Array (Aura) 1x Gloom Prism (Aura) 2x Particle beamer

Deathmarks (60 points) • 5x Deathmark • 5x Close combat weapon 5x Synaptic disintegrator

Doomsday Ark (200 points) • 1x Armoured bulk 1x Doomsday cannon 2x Gauss flayer array

Doomsday Ark (200 points) • 1x Armoured bulk 1x Doomsday cannon 2x Gauss flayer array

Flayed Ones (60 points) • 5x Flayed One • 5x Flayer claws

Lokhust Destroyers (30 points) • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Gauss cannon

Lokhust Destroyers (30 points) • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Gauss cannon

Monolith (375 points) • 4x Death ray 1x Particle whip 1x Portal of exile

Tesseract Vault (400 points) • 1x Antimatter Meteor 1x Cosmic Fire 1x Time's Arrow • 1x Armoured bulk 4x Tesla spheres

Exported with App Version: v1.21.0 (49), Data Version: v469

Archetype

Heavy Hypercrypt

Thoughts

Big teleporting boxes. You love them. Unlike some Hypercrypt lists, this one will have to make some small actual concessions to the changes thanks to having two big boxes as is, but it can just change the Tesseract to a second Monolith or something and it's most of the way there. Teleporting will continue till morale improves. Good stuff from Matt.

Gareth Jones - Chaos Knights (Traitoris Lance) - 4th Place

War Dog - Karnivore. Credit: Rockfish

The List

Army List - Click to Expand

Doggo (2000 Points)

Chaos Knights Traitoris Lance Strike Force (2000 Points)

CHARACTERS

War Dog Stalker (175 Points)* • Warlord • 1x Daemonbreath spear • 1x Havoc multi-launcher • 1x Slaughterclaw • Enhancements: Aura of Terror

* This Datasheet also has the Battleline keyword

BATTLELINE

War Dog Brigand (170 Points) • 1x Armoured feet • 1x Avenger chaincannon • 1x Daemonbreath spear • 1x Havoc multi-launcher

War Dog Brigand (170 Points) • 1x Armoured feet • 1x Avenger chaincannon • 1x Daemonbreath spear • 1x Havoc multi-launcher

War Dog Brigand (170 Points) • 1x Armoured feet • 1x Avenger chaincannon • 1x Daemonbreath spear • 1x Havoc multi-launcher

War Dog Brigand (170 Points) • 1x Armoured feet • 1x Avenger chaincannon • 1x Daemonbreath spear • 1x Havoc multi-launcher

War Dog Brigand (170 Points) • 1x Armoured feet • 1x Avenger chaincannon • 1x Daemonbreath spear • 1x Havoc multi-launcher

War Dog Karnivore (140 Points) • 1x Havoc multi-launcher • 1x Reaper chaintalon • 1x Slaughterclaw

War Dog Karnivore (140 Points) • 1x Havoc multi-launcher • 1x Reaper chaintalon • 1x Slaughterclaw

War Dog Karnivore (140 Points) • 1x Havoc multi-launcher • 1x Reaper chaintalon • 1x Slaughterclaw

War Dog Karnivore (140 Points) • 1x Havoc multi-launcher • 1x Reaper chaintalon • 1x Slaughterclaw

War Dog Karnivore (140 Points) • 1x Havoc multi-launcher • 1x Reaper chaintalon • 1x Slaughterclaw

War Dog Karnivore (140 Points) • 1x Havoc multi-launcher • 1x Reaper chaintalon • 1x Slaughterclaw

ALLIED UNITS

Nurglings (40 Points) • 3x Nurgling Swarm ◦ 3x Diseased claws and teeth

Nurglings (40 Points) • 3x Nurgling Swarm ◦ 3x Diseased claws and teeth

Sloppity Bilepiper (55 Points) • 1x Marotter

Exported with App Version: v1.21.1 (45), Data Version: v469

Archetype

Whoops all Dogs

Thoughts

This list is literally never going to be bad as long as the Brigand and Karnivore datasheets exist. Take that one to the bank. Great stuff Gareth.

The Best of the Rest

There were 9 more players on 4-1 records. They were:

5th - Dan Bates - Ynnari: Lots of melee MSUs (Aeldari and Incubi both), with a big Troupe and big Windrider block as centrepieces.
6th - Gustav Conradie - T'au Empire (Kauyon): Riptide and Skyray spam.
7th - Peter Clappison - Astra Militarum: Big Krieg bricks providing space for Russes and drop Scions.
8th - Simon Fitzpatrick - Drukhari (Skysplinter Assault): Heavy-hitting Skysplinter with multiple big Incubi units plus a Talos squad.
9th - Tom Harris - Salamanders (Firestorm Assault Force): Salamander heroes with the expected Infernus brick, plus a large squad of Assault Intercessors as a hammer out of a Redeemer.
10th - Robert Pate - Imperial Knights: Canis and a Lancer with Armigers and two Assassins.
11th - LUKE RICHARDS - Blood Angels (Sons of Sanguinius): A full 30 VanVet salute to the Jump Sanguinary Priest.
12th - Martin Jones - Aeldari: Comedy herohammer spectacular, surrounding the Avatar with Epic Heroes galore, three Wayleapers and some Farseers.
13th - Alex Meehan - Thousand Sons: Heavy Rubricae squads backed by a Daemon Prince and some Forgefiends.

Mektoberfest warhammer 40k gt

44-player, 5-round Grand Tournament in Augusta, GA, United States on October 19 2024. All the lists for this event can be found in Best Coast Pairings.

Seth Piper - Adeptus Mechanicus (Rad-Zone Corps) - 1st Place

Belisarius Cawl. Credit: Pendulin

The List

Army List - Click to Expand

500 REM (2000 Points)

Adeptus Mechanicus Rad-Zone Corps Strike Force (2000 Points)

CHARACTERS

Belisarius Cawl (150 Points) • Warlord • 1x Arc scourge • 1x Cawl's Omnissian axe • 1x Mechadendrite hive • 1x Solar atomiser

Skitarii Marshal (35 Points) • 1x Control stave • 1x Mechanicus pistol

Tech-Priest Dominus (95 Points) • 1x Omnissian axe • 1x Phosphor serpenta • 1x Volkite blaster • Enhancements: Malphonic Susurrus

Tech-Priest Manipulus (85 Points) • 1x Magnarail lance • 1x Omnissian staff • Enhancements: Peerless Eradicator

Technoarcheologist (70 Points) • 1x Mechanicus pistol • 1x Servo-arc claw • Enhancements: Radial Suffusion

BATTLELINE

Skitarii Rangers (85 Points) • 1x Skitarii Ranger Alpha ◦ 1x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Galvanic rifle • 9x Skitarii Ranger ◦ 1x Arc rifle ◦ 9x Close combat weapon ◦ 6x Galvanic rifle ◦ 1x Omnispex ◦ 1x Plasma caliver ◦ 1x Transuranic arquebus

Skitarii Vanguard (90 Points) • 1x Skitarii Vanguard Alpha ◦ 1x Alpha combat weapon ◦ 1x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Mechanicus pistol • 9x Skitarii Vanguard ◦ 1x Arc rifle ◦ 9x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Omnispex ◦ 1x Plasma caliver ◦ 6x Radium carbine ◦ 1x Transuranic arquebus

Skitarii Vanguard (90 Points) • 1x Skitarii Vanguard Alpha ◦ 1x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Radium carbine • 9x Skitarii Vanguard ◦ 1x Arc rifle ◦ 9x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Omnispex ◦ 1x Plasma caliver ◦ 6x Radium carbine ◦ 1x Transuranic arquebus

OTHER DATASHEETS

Kataphron Breachers (320 Points) • 6x Kataphron Breacher ◦ 6x Heavy arc rifle ◦ 6x Hydraulic claw

Kataphron Breachers (320 Points) • 6x Kataphron Breacher ◦ 6x Heavy arc rifle ◦ 6x Hydraulic claw

Onager Dunecrawler (160 Points) • 1x Broad spectrum data-tether • 1x Cognis heavy stubber • 1x Cognis heavy stubber • 1x Dunecrawler legs • 1x Neutron laser

Sicarian Infiltrators (70 Points) • 1x Sicarian Infiltrator Princeps ◦ 1x Flechette blaster ◦ 1x Taser goad • 4x Sicarian Infiltrator ◦ 4x Flechette blaster ◦ 4x Taser goad

Sicarian Infiltrators (70 Points) • 1x Sicarian Infiltrator Princeps ◦ 1x Flechette blaster ◦ 1x Taser goad • 4x Sicarian Infiltrator ◦ 4x Flechette blaster ◦ 4x Taser goad

Sicarian Ruststalkers (75 Points) • 1x Sicarian Ruststalker Princeps ◦ 1x Transonic blades and chordclaw • 4x Sicarian Ruststalker ◦ 4x Transonic razor and chordclaw

Sicarian Ruststalkers (75 Points) • 1x Sicarian Ruststalker Princeps ◦ 1x Transonic blades and chordclaw • 4x Sicarian Ruststalker ◦ 4x Transonic razor and chordclaw

Sydonian Dragoons with Taser Lances (70 Points) • 1x Phosphor serpenta • 1x Taser lance

Sydonian Dragoons with Taser Lances (70 Points) • 1x Phosphor serpenta • 1x Taser lance

Sydonian Dragoons with Taser Lances (70 Points) • 1x Phosphor serpenta • 1x Taser lance

Exported with App Version: v1.21.1 (45), Data Version: v469

Archetype

Son of a Breacher Man

Thoughts

An unusual AdMech build next, using the ever-reliable Kataphron Breachers to obliterate big targets, and loads of small units to keep the foe at bay as they bleed out to Radial Suffusion. Even the much maligned Cawl gets an outing here, helping ensure there's always a Battleline unit to soup up the Breachers at the core. Great to see AdMech tinkered with, hopefully lots more of that to come, well done Seth.

Brandon Lovato - Necrons (Obeisance Phalanx) - 2nd Place (Undefeated)

Credit: Wings

The List

Army List - Click to Expand

30 lychguard (2000 Points)

Necrons Obeisance Phalanx Strike Force (2000 Points)

CHARACTERS

C'tan Shard of the Nightbringer (295 Points) • 1x Gaze of death • 1x Scythe of the Nightbringer

Imotekh the Stormlord (100 Points) • 1x Gauntlet of Fire • 1x Staff of the Destroyer

Lokhust Lord (80 Points) • 1x Lord's blade • 1x Nanoscarab Amulet

Overlord (100 Points) • 1x Resurrection Orb • 1x Voidscythe • Enhancements: Warrior Noble

Overlord (95 Points) • 1x Resurrection Orb • 1x Voidscythe • Enhancements: Honourable Combatant

The Silent King (420 Points) • 1x Szarekh • Warlord ◦ 1x Sceptre of Eternal Glory ◦ 1x Staff of Stars ◦ 1x Weapons of the Final Triarch • 2x Triarchal Menhir ◦ 2x Annihilator beam ◦ 2x Armoured bulk

OTHER DATASHEETS

Doomsday Ark (200 Points) • 1x Armoured bulk • 1x Doomsday cannon • 2x Gauss flayer array

Doomsday Ark (200 Points) • 1x Armoured bulk • 1x Doomsday cannon • 2x Gauss flayer array

Lychguard (170 Points) • 10x Lychguard ◦ 10x Dispersion Shield ◦ 10x Hyperphase sword

Lychguard (170 Points) • 10x Lychguard ◦ 10x Warscythe

Lychguard (170 Points) • 10x Lychguard ◦ 10x Dispersion Shield ◦ 10x Hyperphase sword

Exported with App Version: v1.21.1 (45), Data Version: v469

Archetype

Obeisance Doomsday

Thoughts

A truly awesome list up next, going for a fully on-brand phalanx of Lychguard to shield the Silent King and Doomsdays as they do their wicked work, with the Nightbringer as a counter-charge threat. I don't think Hypercrypt has gotten anywhere near enough worse that Phalanx displaces it or anything, but this build does get some decent improvements and is super cool, plus has a genuinely fairly new attractive option in the form of cheaper Triarch stuff, so expect to see some people following Brandon's lead in the near future.

The Best of the Rest

There were 5 more players on 4-1 records. They were:

3rd - Colin Wingo - Tyranids (Crusher Stampede): Swarmy and a full Tyrant Guard unit as a nightmare centrepiece, backed by Maleceptors, Tyrannofexen and a Norn.
4th - Mark Perry - Chaos Space Marines (Veterans of the Long War): Abaddon, Obliterators and Plague Marines in Rhinos, definitely a build to watch.
5th - Michael De Legge - Imperial Knights: Canis and Armigers.
6th - Joseph Ettinger - Adepta Sororitas (Bringers of Flame): Classic speedy Flame Sisters.
7th - Daniel Hesters - Adeptus Custodes (Shield Host): Hull-heavy Custodes with an Achillus and Telemon in addition to the standard double Caladius.

Rapid Fire 2024

31-player, 5-round Grand Tournament in Scotland, GB on October 19 2024. All the lists for this event can be found in Best Coast Pairings.

Allan Davidson - Ynnari (Battle Host) - 1st Place

Eldar Support Weapon - D-Cannon. Credit: Rockfish

The List

Army List - Click to Expand

Oh here we go again, never leave indirect at home! Last time with Eldar I promise!

BTW did you here about that one time when Imperial Agents beat Space Wolves!?

Aeldari Strike Force (2000 points) Battle Host

CHARACTERS

The Visarch (90 points) • 1x Asu-var, the Sword of Silent Screams

Yvraine (125 points) • Warlord • 1x Kha-vir, the Sword of Sorrows 1x Storm of Whispers

OTHER DATASHEETS

Rangers (55 points) • 5x Ranger • 5x Close combat weapon 5x Ranger long rifle 5x Shuriken pistol

Striking Scorpions (65 points) • 1x Striking Scorpion Exarch • 1x Mandiblasters 1x Biting Blade • 4x Striking Scorpion • 4x Mandiblasters 4x Scorpion chainsword 4x Shuriken pistol

Support Weapons (135 points) • 1x Close combat weapon 1x D-cannon 1x Shuriken catapult

Support Weapons (135 points) • 1x Close combat weapon 1x D-cannon 1x Shuriken catapult

Support Weapons (135 points) • 1x Close combat weapon 1x D-cannon 1x Shuriken catapult

Troupe (165 points) • 1x Lead Player • 1x Aeldari power sword 1x Fusion pistol • 10x Player • 3x Fusion pistol 10x Harlequin's special weapon 4x Neuro disruptor 3x Shuriken pistol

Warp Spiders (125 points) • 1x Warp Spider Exarch • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Death spinner • 4x Warp Spider • 4x Close combat weapon 4x Death spinner

Warp Spiders (125 points) • 1x Warp Spider Exarch • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Death spinner • 4x Warp Spider • 4x Close combat weapon 4x Death spinner

ALLIED UNITS

Kabalite Warriors (110 points) • 1x Sybarite • 1x Blast pistol 1x Phantasm grenade launcher 1x Sybarite weapon • 9x Kabalite Warrior • 1x Blaster 9x Close combat weapon 1x Dark lance 1x Shredder 1x Splinter cannon 5x Splinter rifle

Lelith Hesperax (85 points) • 1x Lelith's blades

Mandrakes (65 points) • 1x Nightfiend • 1x Baleblast 1x Glimmersteel blade • 4x Mandrake • 4x Baleblast 4x Glimmersteel blade

Mandrakes (65 points) • 1x Nightfiend • 1x Baleblast 1x Glimmersteel blade • 4x Mandrake • 4x Baleblast 4x Glimmersteel blade

Scourges (120 points) • 1x Solarite • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Shardcarbine 1x Solarite weapon • 4x Scourge • 4x Close combat weapon 4x Drukhari haywire blaster

Scourges (120 points) • 1x Solarite • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Shardcarbine • 4x Scourge • 4x Close combat weapon 4x Dark lance

Scourges (120 points) • 1x Solarite • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Shardcarbine • 4x Scourge • 4x Close combat weapon 4x Dark lance

Venom (70 points) • 1x Bladevanes 2x Splinter cannon

Wyches (90 points) • 1x Hekatrix • 1x Blast pistol 1x Hekatarii blade 1x Phantasm grenade launcher • 9x Wych • 9x Hekatarii blade 9x Splinter pistol

Exported with App Version: v1.21.0 (49), Data Version: v469

Archetype

Evasive Aeldari

Thoughts

Keep-away Shooting and a few big melee hammers to punish anyone who tries to go too aggro. It's a recipe that consistently works for the Aeldari, and which is pretty much guaranteed to continue to put in occasional wins as we go forward when the right person picks it up. Good stuff from Allan.

The Best of the Rest

There were 5 more players on 4-1 records. They were:

2nd - Bruce Duffy - Emperor's Children (Veterans of the Long War): Another outing for the Liam Vsl Veterans plan. Brawler (anti)hero-packed units, including Lucius with some Noise Marines, supported by Obliterators.
3rd - Graeme Meiklejohn - Tyranids (Crusher Stampede): Maleceptors and Tyrannofexes galore.
4th - Samuel Norton-Alexander - Adepta Sororitas (Bringers of Flame): Hull-heavy Flame Sisters, going light on Characters to add Exorcists to the mix.
5th - Conar Leach - Chaos Space Marines (Renegade Raiders): Abaddon gunline plus a big roving Warp Talon squad.
6th - Ryan Cook - Astra Militarum: 18 Bullgrun and tanks.

Wrap Up

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