This website uses cookies. Learn more.

Gaming | Tactics | Warhammer 40k | Meta Analysis | Competitive Play | Goonhammer | Core Games | 40K Competitive Innovations

[40k] Competitive Innovations in 10th: Holding Space (Marines) pt.2

by Lowest of Men | Jan 24 2025
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.

Part 2, now with some Xenos and Chaos forces getting a chance to shine.

Today we've got:
  • HAMBURG MAJOR 2025 40k
  • First Assault!
  • DA GITHAMMER WAAAGH WEEKEND!!!! GT
  • Cross-Swords Vigil of Peace
  • Abyss Bonne année, Grand Nez 40k GT
Part 1 on Wednesday covered:
  • LVO 2025 Warhammer 40k Champs
  • Dutch Masters finale GT
  • Loch 'n Load GT 1
  • 1 GT MOGUER IBERIAN OPE
  • Burn & Learn Vol.10

HAMBURG MAJOR 2025 40k

103-player, 5-round Grand Tournament in Hamburg, HH, Deutschland on January 18 2025. All the lists for this event can be found in Best Coast Pairings.

Jens 'Bothi' Bothur - Necrons (Starshatter Arsenal) - 1st Place

The Silent King The Silent King. Credit: Pendulin

The List

Army List - Click to Expand
German Major Hamburg 25.2 (1990 points)

Necrons Strike Force (2000 points) Starshatter Arsenal

CHARACTERS

Hexmark Destroyer (100 points) • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Enmitic disintegrator pistols • Enhancement: Chrono-impedance Fields

Hexmark Destroyer (75 points) • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Enmitic disintegrator pistols

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

Lokhust Lord (90 points) • 1x Lord's blade 1x Resurrection Orb • Enhancement: Demanding Leader

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

Canoptek Reanimator (75 points) • 2x Atomiser beam 1x Reanimator's claws

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

Doomsday Ark (190 points) • 1x Armoured bulk 1x Doomsday cannon 2x Gauss flayer array

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

Lokhust Destroyers (180 points) • 6x Lokhust Destroyer • 6x Close combat weapon 6x Gauss cannon

Lokhust Heavy Destroyers (110 points) • 2x Lokhust Heavy Destroyer • 2x Close combat weapon 2x Enmitic exterminator

Lokhust Heavy Destroyers (55 points) • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Enmitic exterminator

Skorpekh Destroyers (90 points) • 3x Skorpekh Destroyer • 1x Plasmacyte 3x Skorpekh hyperphase weapons

Tomb Blades (75 points) • 3x Tomb Blade • 3x Close combat weapon 3x Particle beamer 3x Shadowloom

Tomb Blades (75 points) • 3x Tomb Blade • 3x Close combat weapon 3x Particle beamer 3x Shadowloom

Triarch Stalker (110 points) • 1x Heavy gauss cannon array 1x Stalker's forelimbs

Triarch Stalker (110 points) • 1x Heavy gauss cannon array 1x Stalker's forelimbs

Exported with App Version: v1.26.0 (67), Data Version: v541

Archetype

Go-wide Starshatter

Thoughts

How do you adapt when everyone and their mums is packing Doomsday Ark solutions? Cut those down and go wider with other units instead. Plenty of heft in this list regardless with two Triarch Stalkers to draw the opponent out for cheaper, a Spyder to soak mortals, and Destroyer emphasis to pick off marine bodies and MSU. I like this as a more flexible solution to the pressure infantry builds we are seeing in the game right now! Really well done on the event win.

Sebastian Müller - Dark Angels (Gladius Task Force) - 2nd Place (Undefeated)

Rainbow Warriors Azrael by Craig "MasterSlowPoke" Sniffen

The List

Army List - Click to Expand
DA: Der König der Möwen (2000 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

Bladeguard Ancient (45 Points) • 1x Close combat weapon • 1x Heavy bolt pistol

Lieutenant in Phobos Armour (55 Points) • 1x Bolt Pistol • 1x Master-crafted bolt carbine • 1x Paired combat blades

Lion El'Jonson (315 Points) • Warlord • 1x Arma Luminis • 1x Fealty

OTHER DATASHEETS

Assault Intercessors with Jump Packs (90 Points) • 1x Assault Intercessor Sergeant with Jump Pack ◦ 1x Astartes chainsword ◦ 1x Heavy bolt pistol • 4x Assault Intercessors with Jump Packs ◦ 4x Astartes chainsword ◦ 4x Heavy bolt pistol

Deathwing Knights (250 Points) • 1x Watcher in the Dark • 1x Knight Master ◦ 1x Great weapon of the Unforgiven • 4x Deathwing Knight ◦ 4x Mace of absolution

Deathwing Knights (250 Points) • 1x Watcher in the Dark • 1x Knight Master ◦ 1x Great weapon of the Unforgiven • 4x Deathwing Knight ◦ 4x Mace of absolution

Deathwing Knights (250 Points) • 1x Watcher in the Dark • 1x Knight Master ◦ 1x Great weapon of the Unforgiven • 4x Deathwing Knight ◦ 4x Mace of absolution

Gladiator Lancer (160 Points) • 1x Armoured hull • 2x Fragstorm grenade launcher • 1x Icarus rocket pod • 1x Ironhail heavy stubber • 1x Lancer laser destroyer

Gladiator Lancer (160 Points) • 1x Armoured hull • 2x Fragstorm grenade launcher • 1x Icarus rocket pod • 1x Ironhail heavy stubber • 1x Lancer laser destroyer

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

Invader ATV (60 Points) • 1x Bolt pistol • 1x Close combat weapon • 1x Onslaught gatling cannon • 1x Twin bolt rifle

Scout Squad (70 Points) • 1x Scout Sergeant ◦ 1x Astartes chainsword ◦ 1x Bolt pistol ◦ 1x Close combat weapon • 4x Scout ◦ 1x Astartes shotgun ◦ 4x Bolt pistol ◦ 1x Boltgun ◦ 4x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Missile launcher ◦ 1x Scout sniper rifle

Exported with App Version: v1.26.0 (2), Data Version: v541

Archetype

Dark Angels DWK

Thoughts

Loads of Deathwing Knights and the Lion - still a really potent force! Gladius gives it a bunch of crucial tricks, and Lancers provide hard target removal. It isn't rich on assets but it packs a crucial stat check / fights first problem that will help into some of the nasty damage two melee brawlers we are seeing. Amazing work!

Ben Hackländer - Death Guard (Plague Company) - 3rd Place

Credit: PierreTheMime

The List

Army List - Click to Expand
Disgusting Highway (2000 points)

Death Guard Strike Force (2000 points) Plague Company

CHARACTERS

Mortarion (300 points) • Warlord • 1x Rotwind 1x Silence 1x The Lantern

OTHER DATASHEETS

Death Guard Cultists (50 points) • 1x Death Guard Cultist Champion • 1x Brutal assault weapon 1x Cultist firearm • 9x Death Guard Cultist • 9x Brutal assault weapon 6x Cultist firearm 1x Flamer 1x Grenade launcher 1x Heavy stubber

Death Guard Cultists (50 points) • 1x Death Guard Cultist Champion • 1x Brutal assault weapon 1x Cultist firearm • 9x Death Guard Cultist • 9x Brutal assault weapon 6x Cultist firearm 1x Flamer 1x Grenade launcher 1x Heavy stubber

Death Guard Cultists (50 points) • 1x Death Guard Cultist Champion • 1x Brutal assault weapon 1x Cultist firearm • 9x Death Guard Cultist • 9x Brutal assault weapon 6x Cultist firearm 1x Flamer 1x Grenade launcher 1x Heavy stubber

Death Guard Predator Annihilator (130 points) • 1x Armoured tracks 1x Combi-weapon 1x Havoc launcher 2x Lascannon 1x Predator twin lascannon

Death Guard Predator Annihilator (130 points) • 1x Armoured tracks 1x Combi-weapon 1x Havoc launcher 2x Lascannon 1x Predator twin lascannon

Death Guard Predator Annihilator (130 points) • 1x Armoured tracks 1x Combi-weapon 1x Havoc launcher 2x Lascannon 1x Predator twin lascannon

Death Guard Predator Destructor (130 points) • 1x Armoured tracks 1x Combi-weapon 1x Havoc launcher 2x Plague heavy bolter 1x Predator autocannon

Death Guard Predator Destructor (130 points) • 1x Armoured tracks 1x Combi-weapon 1x Havoc launcher 2x Plague heavy bolter 1x Predator autocannon

Death Guard Predator Destructor (130 points) • 1x Armoured tracks 1x Combi-weapon 1x Havoc launcher 2x Plague heavy bolter 1x Predator autocannon

Foetid Bloat-Drone (90 points) • 1x Fleshmower 1x Plague probe

Foetid Bloat-Drone (90 points) • 1x Fleshmower 1x Plague probe

Foetid Bloat-Drone (90 points) • 1x Plague probe 2x Plaguespitter

Myphitic Blight-Haulers (180 points) • 2x Myphitic Blight-hauler • 2x Bile spurt 2x Gnashing maw 2x Missile launcher 2x Multi-melta

Myphitic Blight-Haulers (90 points) • 1x Bile spurt 1x Gnashing maw 1x Missile launcher 1x Multi-melta

Myphitic Blight-Haulers (90 points) • 1x Bile spurt 1x Gnashing maw 1x Missile launcher 1x Multi-melta

ALLIED UNITS

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

Exported with App Version: v1.26.0 (67), Data Version: v541

Archetype

Death Guard Hull Spam

Thoughts

Hull spam Death Guard had a great run at Nottingham under Nathan Roberts, and we see another take on this here - freeing up some points by cutting out the Plagueburst Crawlers in favour of the nippier, cheaper Blighthaulers. A lot of tank to chew through with Mortarion mashing things up and providing crucial buffs. Well done on the top placing!

Paul Hilsdorf - Necrons (Starshatter Arsenal) - 4th Place

Illuminor Szeras Illuminor Szeras. Credit: Rockfish

The List

Army List - Click to Expand
Hamburg (1990 points)

Necrons Strike Force (2000 points) Starshatter Arsenal

CHARACTERS

Catacomb Command Barge (150 points) • Warlord • 1x Gauss cannon 1x Overlord's blade 1x Resurrection Orb • Enhancement: Dread Majesty (Aura)

Illuminor Szeras (175 points) • 1x Eldritch Lance 1x Impaling legs

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

Plasmancer (75 points) • 1x Plasmic lance • Enhancement: Miniaturised Nebuloscope

Plasmancer (85 points) • 1x Plasmic lance • Enhancement: Chrono-impedance Fields

BATTLELINE

Immortals (150 points) • 10x Immortal • 10x Close combat weapon 10x Tesla carbine

Immortals (70 points) • 5x Immortal • 5x Close combat weapon 5x Tesla carbine

OTHER DATASHEETS

Canoptek Reanimator (75 points) • 2x Atomiser beam 1x Reanimator's claws

Doomsday Ark (190 points) • 1x Armoured bulk 1x Doomsday cannon 2x Gauss flayer array

Doomsday Ark (190 points) • 1x Armoured bulk 1x Doomsday cannon 2x Gauss flayer array

Doomsday Ark (190 points) • 1x Armoured bulk 1x Doomsday cannon 2x Gauss flayer array

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

Lokhust Heavy Destroyers (55 points) • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Gauss destructor

Lokhust Heavy Destroyers (55 points) • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Gauss destructor

Ophydian Destroyers (80 points) • 3x Ophydian Destroyer • 3x Ophydian hyperphase weapons 1x Plasmacyte

Skorpekh Destroyers (90 points) • 3x Skorpekh Destroyer • 1x Plasmacyte 3x Skorpekh hyperphase weapons

Skorpekh Destroyers (90 points) • 3x Skorpekh Destroyer • 1x Plasmacyte 3x Skorpekh hyperphase weapons

Triarch Stalker (110 points) • 1x Heat ray 1x Stalker's forelimbs

Exported with App Version: v1.26.0 (67), Data Version: v541

Archetype

Starshatter Goodstuff

Thoughts

A more conventional triple DDA Starshatter list, this one compliments that with screening melee destroyers out ahead of the guns. Starshatter will continue to be one to watch in the meta going forwards, and you need a plan for this build to go far at events right now. Amazing work on the top placing.

The Best of the Rest

There were 12 more players on 4-1 records. They were:
  • 5th - Ingo Berthelsen - Adeptus Custodes (Talons of the Emperor): Massed infantry Custodes in Talons.
  • 6th - Niklas Frerichs - Adeptus Custodes (Solar Spearhead) : Dreadnought spam with a couple of bike squads.
  • 7th - Kayu Orellana - Tyranids (Assimilation Swarm): Assimilation Swarm with a big brick of Hormagaunts, some Zoanthropes, and lots of stodgy scoring trash.
  • 8th - Nils Gottschalk - Leagues of Votann (Oathband): 15 Bikes and 20 Berzerks, delicious Dwarf nonsense!
  • 9th - Leif Westermann - Aeldari (Battle Host): Triple Wave Serpent, triple Fire Prism, lots of Aspects. Epic.
  • 10th - Sebastian Maack - Ultramarines (Vanguard Spearhead): New wave Vanguard with Gulliman.
  • 11th - Dennis Gottschalk - Grey Knights (Warpbane Task Force): Triple Purgation Warpbane with a Razorback and some Dreadknights.
  • 12th - Nikolai Anthony - Chaos Space Marines (Creations of Bile): Terminator brick / Possessed brick Bile.
  • 13th - Sebastian Kollberg - Chaos Space Marines (Renegade Raiders): Accursed brick and MSU in Raiders.
  • 14th - Niels Scheer - Ultramarines (Gladius Task Force): Ultramarines Gladius with multiple Vindicators and some infantry MSU.
  • 15th - Robin Schreiber - Ynnari (Battle Host): Yvraine brick / Wraithblade brick Ynnari with Scourge in support.
  • 16th - Jonas Dobberow - Chaos Space Marines (Creations of Bile): 15 Warp Talons and 20 Possessed in Bile.

First Assault!

42-player, 5-round Grand Tournament in Hyrylä, Uusimaa, Suomi on January 18 2025. All the lists for this event can be found in Best Coast Pairings.

Juuso Sipiläinen - Chaos Daemons (Legion of Excess) - 1st Place

Syll'Esske. Credit: Brin

The List

Army List - Click to Expand
Kulumahiomakoneet (2000 points)

Chaos Daemons Strike Force (2000 points) Legion of Excess

CHARACTERS

Be'lakor (325 points) • Warlord • 1x Betraying Shades 1x The Blade of Shadows

Keeper of Secrets (300 points) • 1x Phantasmagoria 1x Shining Aegis 1x Snapping claws 1x Witstealer sword • Enhancement: Soul Glutton

Syll'Esske (120 points) • 1x Axe of Dominion 1x Cacophonic choir 1x Scourging whip

BATTLELINE

Plaguebearers (110 points) • 1x Plagueridden • 1x Plaguesword • 9x Plaguebearer • 1x Daemonic Icon 1x Instrument of Chaos 9x Plaguesword

OTHER DATASHEETS

Fiends (105 points) • 1x Blissbringer • 1x Barbed tail and dissecting claws • 2x Fiend • 2x Barbed tail and dissecting claws

Fiends (105 points) • 1x Blissbringer • 1x Barbed tail and dissecting claws • 2x Fiend • 2x Barbed tail and dissecting claws

Fiends (105 points) • 1x Blissbringer • 1x Barbed tail and dissecting claws • 2x Fiend • 2x Barbed tail and dissecting claws

Seeker Chariot (65 points) • 1x Lashes of torment 1x Seeker tongues 1x Slashing claws

Seeker Chariot (65 points) • 1x Lashes of torment 1x Seeker tongues 1x Slashing claws

Seekers (80 points) • 1x Heartseeker • 1x Lashing tongue 1x Slashing claws • 4x Seeker • 1x Daemonic Icon 1x Instrument of Chaos 4x Lashing tongue 4x Slashing claws

Seekers (80 points) • 1x Heartseeker • 1x Lashing tongue 1x Slashing claws • 4x Seeker • 1x Daemonic Icon 1x Instrument of Chaos 4x Lashing tongue 4x Slashing claws

Soul Grinder (180 points) • Daemonic Allegiance: Slaanesh • 1x Harvester cannon 1x Iron claw 1x Scream of despair 1x Warpsword

Soul Grinder (180 points) • Daemonic Allegiance: Slaanesh • 1x Harvester cannon 1x Iron claw 1x Scream of despair 1x Warpsword

Soul Grinder (180 points) • Daemonic Allegiance: Slaanesh • 1x Harvester cannon 1x Iron claw 1x Scream of despair 1x Warpsword

Exported with App Version: v1.25.0 (65), Data Version: v538

Archetype

Hefty Slaanesh

Thoughts

A more rounded, gun-toting take on the Slaanesh hotness here, with Soul Grinders for backfield presence and shooting and Belakor to provide that sweet no-sell aura to stop enemy guns. As a break out meta star Slaanesh has a way to run on finding the ideal build, and it's very cool to see this different take on it winning a GT! Amazing work.

The Best of the Rest

There were 6 more players on 4-1 records. They were:
  • 2nd - Jouni Haavisto - Orks (Taktikal Brigade): Flash Gitz, Tankbustas, and some tasteful Deffkoptas in Taktikal.
  • 3rd - Eero Saukkonen - Astra Militarum (Bridgehead Strike): The emerging Bridgehead chassis - lots of Scions, some indirect, and a cheeky Tank Commander.
  • 4th - Tatu Sipola - Chaos Space Marines (Creations of Bile): Hefty Bile with lots of Possessed and Chosen.
  • 5th - Juha Ottelin - Astra Militarum (Bridgehead Strike): Same list as above but with an extra Tank Commander!
  • 6th - Arto Lampila - Leagues of Votann (Oathband): Massed Sagitaur and Land Forts.
  • 7th - Migs Silvanto - Blood Angels (Liberator Assault Group): LAG MSU with some small squads of Centurions! I love this.

DA GITHAMMER WAAAGH WEEKEND!!!! GT

34-player, 6-round Grand Tournament in Cypress, CA, United States on January 18 2025. All the lists for this event can be found in Best Coast Pairings.

The Showdown

Crucible of Battle - Purge the Foe - Smoke and Mirrors

Kyle Parry - Ynnari (Battle Host)
Army List - Click to Expand
Mediocre (2000 Points)

Aeldari Battle Host Strike Force (2000 Points)

CHARACTERS

Death Jester (105 Points) • 1x Jester's blade • 1x Shrieker cannon • Enhancements: Fate's Messenger

Farseer Skyrunner (90 Points) • 1x Eldritch Storm • 1x Shuriken pistol • 1x Singing spear • 1x Twin shuriken catapult

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

DEDICATED TRANSPORTS

Starweaver (80 Points) • 1x Close combat weapon • 2x Shuriken cannon

OTHER DATASHEETS

Striking Scorpions (65 Points) • 1x Striking Scorpion Exarch ◦ 1x Mandiblasters ◦ 1x Scorpion chainsword ◦ 1x Scorpion's claw • 4x Striking Scorpion ◦ 4x Mandiblasters ◦ 4x Scorpion chainsword ◦ 4x Shuriken pistol

Striking Scorpions (65 Points) • 1x Striking Scorpion Exarch ◦ 1x Mandiblasters ◦ 1x Scorpion chainsword ◦ 1x Scorpion's claw • 4x Striking Scorpion ◦ 4x Mandiblasters ◦ 4x Scorpion chainsword ◦ 4x Shuriken pistol

Swooping Hawks (85 Points) • 1x Swooping Hawk Exarch ◦ 1x Aeldari power sword ◦ 1x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Hawk's talon • 4x Swooping Hawk ◦ 4x Close combat weapon ◦ 4x Lasblaster

Troupe (180 Points) • 1x Lead Player ◦ 1x Aeldari power sword ◦ 1x Fusion pistol • 11x Player ◦ 3x Fusion pistol ◦ 11x Harlequin's special weapon ◦ 4x Neuro disruptor ◦ 4x Shuriken pistol

Vypers (75 Points) • 1x Bright lance • 1x Twin shuriken catapult • 1x Wraithbone hull

Vypers (75 Points) • 1x Bright lance • 1x Twin shuriken catapult • 1x Wraithbone hull

War Walkers (110 Points) • 2x Bright lance • 1x War Walker feet

War Walkers (110 Points) • 2x Bright lance • 1x War Walker feet

War Walkers (110 Points) • 2x Bright lance • 1x War Walker feet

Warlock Skyrunner Conclave (135 Points) • 3x Warlock Skyrunner ◦ 3x Destructor ◦ 3x Shuriken pistol ◦ 3x Singing Spear ◦ 3x Twin shuriken catapult

ALLIED UNITS

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

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

Venom (70 Points) • 1x Bladevanes • 1x Splinter cannon • 1x Splinter cannon

Venom (70 Points) • 1x Bladevanes • 1x Splinter cannon • 1x Splinter cannon

Venom (70 Points) • 1x Bladevanes • 1x Splinter cannon • 1x Splinter cannon

Venom (70 Points) • 1x Bladevanes • 1x Splinter cannon • 1x Splinter cannon

Exported with App Version: v1.25.0 (2), Data Version: v538


vs.

Alan Dehesa - World Eaters (Berzerker Warband)
Army List - Click to Expand
Not LVO (1995 Points)

World Eaters Berzerker Warband Strike Force (2000 Points)

CHARACTERS

Angron (435 Points) • Warlord • 1x Samni'arius and Spinegrinder

Lord Invocatus (140 Points) • 1x Bolt Pistol • 1x Coward's Bane • 1x Juggernaut's bladed horn

BATTLELINE

Jakhals (65 Points) • 1x Jakhal Pack Leader ◦ 1x Autopistol ◦ 1x Jakhal chainblades • 1x Dishonoured ◦ 1x Skullsmasher • 8x Jakhal ◦ 8x Autopistol ◦ 1x Icon of Khorne ◦ 7x Jakhal chainblades ◦ 1x Mauler chainblade

Jakhals (65 Points) • 1x Jakhal Pack Leader ◦ 1x Autopistol ◦ 1x Jakhal chainblades • 1x Dishonoured ◦ 1x Skullsmasher • 8x Jakhal ◦ 8x Autopistol ◦ 1x Icon of Khorne ◦ 7x Jakhal chainblades ◦ 1x Mauler chainblade

Jakhals (65 Points) • 1x Jakhal Pack Leader ◦ 1x Autopistol ◦ 1x Jakhal chainblades • 1x Dishonoured ◦ 1x Skullsmasher • 8x Jakhal ◦ 8x Autopistol ◦ 1x Icon of Khorne ◦ 7x Jakhal chainblades ◦ 1x Mauler chainblade

OTHER DATASHEETS

Eightbound (140 Points) • 1x Eightbound Champion ◦ 1x Lacerators • 2x Eightbound ◦ 2x Eightbound eviscerators

Eightbound (140 Points) • 1x Eightbound Champion ◦ 1x Lacerators • 2x Eightbound ◦ 2x Eightbound eviscerators

Exalted Eightbound (155 Points) • 1x Exalted Eightbound Champion ◦ 1x Paired Eightbound chainfists • 2x Exalted Eightbound ◦ 2x Eightbound chainfist ◦ 2x Eightbound eviscerator

World Eaters Chaos Spawn (70 Points) • 2x Chaos Spawn ◦ 2x Hideous mutations

World Eaters Chaos Spawn (70 Points) • 2x Chaos Spawn ◦ 2x Hideous mutations

World Eaters Helbrute (130 Points) • 1x Close combat weapon • 2x Heavy flamer • 1x Helbrute fist • 1x Helbrute fist

World Eaters Helbrute (130 Points) • 1x Close combat weapon • 1x Helbrute hammer • 1x Twin lascannon

World Eaters Helbrute (130 Points) • 1x Close combat weapon • 2x Heavy flamer • 1x Helbrute fist • 1x Helbrute fist

World Eaters Predator Destructor (130 Points) • 1x Armoured tracks • 1x Combi-weapon • 1x Havoc launcher • 2x Lascannon • 1x Predator autocannon

World Eaters Predator Destructor (130 Points) • 1x Armoured tracks • 1x Combi-weapon • 1x Havoc launcher • 2x Lascannon • 1x Predator autocannon

Exported with App Version: v1.25.0 (2), Data Version: v538

Thoughts

A spicy match up here pitting those who would quite like to be dead against those who would really like you to be dead. The WE list is interesting, dialling down the Eightbound to slot in some Predators and Helbutes and create different challenges and profiles for the foe to deal with. Otherwise, business as usual with the going fast and punching things!

The Ynnari probably quite appreciate the WE bringing tanks for them to pick off with Lances and such, and the list here is beautifully asset rich with a million cheap and cheerful units to give the Eaters the run around. That gives them a better chance of avoiding the loss condition of a mass connect from the melee push. On paper I'd be optimistic of the elves ability here to absorb and out-activate the WE, which makes the perfectly executed one point win by Angron's sons even more impressive, really well done!

Result

World Eaters (Berzerker Warband) Victory - 83 - 82

Alan Dehesa - World Eaters (Berzerker Warband) - 1st Place

Credit: Robert "TheChirurgeon" Jones

The List

Army List - Click to Expand
Not LVO (1995 Points)

World Eaters Berzerker Warband Strike Force (2000 Points)

CHARACTERS

Angron (435 Points) • Warlord • 1x Samni'arius and Spinegrinder

Lord Invocatus (140 Points) • 1x Bolt Pistol • 1x Coward's Bane • 1x Juggernaut's bladed horn

BATTLELINE

Jakhals (65 Points) • 1x Jakhal Pack Leader ◦ 1x Autopistol ◦ 1x Jakhal chainblades • 1x Dishonoured ◦ 1x Skullsmasher • 8x Jakhal ◦ 8x Autopistol ◦ 1x Icon of Khorne ◦ 7x Jakhal chainblades ◦ 1x Mauler chainblade

Jakhals (65 Points) • 1x Jakhal Pack Leader ◦ 1x Autopistol ◦ 1x Jakhal chainblades • 1x Dishonoured ◦ 1x Skullsmasher • 8x Jakhal ◦ 8x Autopistol ◦ 1x Icon of Khorne ◦ 7x Jakhal chainblades ◦ 1x Mauler chainblade

Jakhals (65 Points) • 1x Jakhal Pack Leader ◦ 1x Autopistol ◦ 1x Jakhal chainblades • 1x Dishonoured ◦ 1x Skullsmasher • 8x Jakhal ◦ 8x Autopistol ◦ 1x Icon of Khorne ◦ 7x Jakhal chainblades ◦ 1x Mauler chainblade

OTHER DATASHEETS

Eightbound (140 Points) • 1x Eightbound Champion ◦ 1x Lacerators • 2x Eightbound ◦ 2x Eightbound eviscerators

Eightbound (140 Points) • 1x Eightbound Champion ◦ 1x Lacerators • 2x Eightbound ◦ 2x Eightbound eviscerators

Exalted Eightbound (155 Points) • 1x Exalted Eightbound Champion ◦ 1x Paired Eightbound chainfists • 2x Exalted Eightbound ◦ 2x Eightbound chainfist ◦ 2x Eightbound eviscerator

World Eaters Chaos Spawn (70 Points) • 2x Chaos Spawn ◦ 2x Hideous mutations

World Eaters Chaos Spawn (70 Points) • 2x Chaos Spawn ◦ 2x Hideous mutations

World Eaters Helbrute (130 Points) • 1x Close combat weapon • 2x Heavy flamer • 1x Helbrute fist • 1x Helbrute fist

World Eaters Helbrute (130 Points) • 1x Close combat weapon • 1x Helbrute hammer • 1x Twin lascannon

World Eaters Helbrute (130 Points) • 1x Close combat weapon • 2x Heavy flamer • 1x Helbrute fist • 1x Helbrute fist

World Eaters Predator Destructor (130 Points) • 1x Armoured tracks • 1x Combi-weapon • 1x Havoc launcher • 2x Lascannon • 1x Predator autocannon

World Eaters Predator Destructor (130 Points) • 1x Armoured tracks • 1x Combi-weapon • 1x Havoc launcher • 2x Lascannon • 1x Predator autocannon

Exported with App Version: v1.25.0 (2), Data Version: v538

Archetype

World Eaters Mixed Arms

Thoughts

Perpetual bridesmaids, the World Eaters claim an event win and I am very psyched about it! This list is genuinely very innovative, packing in some supporting fire. The triple Helbrute is really funny into some melee match ups getting you some additional activations and making the mini-games that WE pose even more complicated. Fantastic work on the event win!

The Best of the Rest

There were 3 more players on 5-1 records. They were:
  • 2nd - Kyle Parry - Aeldari (Battle Host):
  • 3rd - Ed Safarian - Astra Militarum (Combined Regiment):
  • 4th - Jason McKenzie - Adeptus Mechanicus (Haloscreed Battle Clade):

Cross-Swords Vigil of Peace

34-player, 5-round Grand Tournament in Lee Mill Bridge, England, United Kingdom on January 18 2025. All the lists for this event can be found in Best Coast Pairings.

Jonathan Summerfield - Grey Knights (Warpbane Task Force) - 1st Place

Grey Knights Nemesis Dreadknight. Credit: Colin Ward

The List

Army List - Click to Expand
For Gareth (2000 points)

Grey Knights Strike Force (2000 points) Warpbane Task Force

CHARACTERS

Brotherhood Librarian (120 points) • 1x Combi-weapon 1x Nemesis force weapon 1x Purge Soul

Brotherhood Librarian (120 points) • 1x Combi-weapon 1x Nemesis force weapon 1x Purge Soul

Grand Master in Nemesis Dreadknight (210 points) • Warlord • 1x Gatling psilencer 1x Heavy psycannon 1x Nemesis daemon greathammer

Grand Master in Nemesis Dreadknight (210 points) • 1x Gatling psilencer 1x Heavy psycannon 1x Nemesis daemon greathammer

BATTLELINE

Strike Squad (120 points) • 1x Justicar • 1x Nemesis force weapon 1x Storm bolter • 4x Grey Knight • 1x Close combat weapon 3x Nemesis force weapon 1x Psycannon 3x Storm bolter

OTHER DATASHEETS

Nemesis Dreadknight (210 points) • 1x Gatling psilencer 1x Heavy psycannon 1x Nemesis daemon greathammer

Nemesis Dreadknight (210 points) • 1x Gatling psilencer 1x Heavy psycannon 1x Nemesis daemon greathammer

Nemesis Dreadknight (210 points) • 1x Gatling psilencer 1x Heavy psycannon 1x Nemesis daemon greathammer

Purgation Squad (120 points) • 1x Purgator Justicar • 1x Nemesis force weapon 1x Storm bolter • 4x Purgator • 4x Close combat weapon 4x Psycannon

Purgation Squad (120 points) • 1x Purgator Justicar • 1x Nemesis force weapon 1x Storm bolter • 4x Purgator • 4x Close combat weapon 4x Psycannon

Purifier Squad (125 points) • 1x Knight of the Flame • 1x Nemesis force weapon 1x Purifying Flame 1x Storm bolter • 4x Purifier • 2x Close combat weapon 2x Nemesis force weapon 2x Psycannon 4x Purifying Flame 2x Storm bolter

Purifier Squad (125 points) • 1x Knight of the Flame • 1x Nemesis force weapon 1x Purifying Flame 1x Storm bolter • 4x Purifier • 2x Close combat weapon 2x Nemesis force weapon 2x Psycannon 4x Purifying Flame 2x Storm bolter

ALLIED UNITS

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

Exported with App Version: v1.25.0 (65), Data Version: v538

Archetype

Warpbane Librarians

Thoughts

A very tidy Warpbane list, which mixes in some of the standouts (Purifiers and Purgation Squads), and then adds some mortal wound output from Librarians to help it muscle through tanks and monsters. Warpbane seems to be flexible and effective but takes some careful piloting to get the best out of, so an event win in a game full of nasty threats is very commendable, really well done!

The Best of the Rest

There were 5 more players on 4-1 records. They were:
  • 2nd - Cameron Giles - Adeptus Custodes (Solar Spearhead): Dreadnought / Caladius spam with two Assassins!
  • 3rd - James Mclean - Tyranids (Invasion Fleet): Truckloads of Invasion Fleet Termagants in front of the usual heavy hitting monsters.
  • 4th - Liam Steptoe - World Eaters (Vessels of Wrath): Three huge bricks of Eightbound to maximise the new buffs in Vessels, epic.
  • 5th - Steve Pearce - Deathwatch (Black Spear Task Force): Techy Deathwatch with a Talonspear team, some Judiciar squads and a Navigator from the IA book.
  • 6th - Steven Connell - Chaos Space Marines (Creations of Bile): Four Rhinos chock full of Legionaires in Bile - amazing.

Abyss Bonne année, Grand Nez 40k GT

28-player, 5-round Grand Tournament in Montréal, Québec, CA on January 18 2025. All the lists for this event can be found in Best Coast Pairings.

John Winter Russell - Astra Militarum (Bridgehead Strike) - 1st Place

Kasrkin Kill Team. Credit: Jack Hunter

The List

Army List - Click to Expand
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Player Name: John Winter Russell Factions Used: Astra Militarum Army Points: 2000 Army Enhancements: Bombast-Class Vox-array Detachment Rule: Bridgehead Strike

Number of units: 23 Bring it down: 4 Assassination: (7) 28 ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Les hommes avec des pelles (2000 Points)

Astra Militarum Bridgehead Strike Strike Force (2000 Points)

CHARACTERS

Death Korps Marshal (60 Points) • 1x Plasma pistol • 1x Power weapon

Gaunt's Ghosts (110 Points) • 1x Ibram Gaunt ◦ 1x Bolt Pistol ◦ 1x Gaunt's chainsword • 1x Colm Corbec ◦ 1x Corbec's hot-shot lascarbine ◦ 1x Straight silver knife • 1x Elim Rawne ◦ 1x Rawne's lascarbine ◦ 1x Straight silver knife • 1x Hlaine Larkin ◦ 1x Larkin's long-las ◦ 1x Straight silver knife • 1x 'Try Again' Bragg ◦ 1x Bragg's autocannon ◦ 1x Straight silver knife • 1x Oan Mkoll ◦ 1x Lascarbine ◦ 1x Mkoll's straight silver knife

Militarum Tempestus Command Squad (95 Points) • 1x Tempestor Prime • Warlord ◦ 1x Plasma pistol ◦ 1x Tempestus dagger • 4x Tempestus Scion ◦ 4x Close combat weapon ◦ 2x Hot-shot lasgun ◦ 2x Hot-shot laspistol ◦ 1x Master Vox ◦ 1x Medi-pack ◦ 1x Plasma gun ◦ 1x Regimental Standard Bombast-Class Vox-array (+25 pts)

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

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

Platoon Command Squad (60 Points) • 1x Platoon Commander ◦ 1x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Plasma pistol ◦ 1x Power fist • 4x Veteran Guardsman ◦ 4x Close combat weapon ◦ 2x Lasgun ◦ 4x Laspistol ◦ 1x Master Vox ◦ 1x Meltagun ◦ 1x Plasma gun ◦ 1x Regimental Standard

Ursula Creed (55 Points) • 1x Duty and Vengeance • 1x Power weapon

BATTLELINE

Death Korps of Krieg (130 Points) • 2x Death Korps Watchmaster ◦ 2x Plasma pistol ◦ 2x Power weapon • 18x Death Korps Trooper ◦ 18x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Death Korps Medi-pack ◦ 2x Grenade launcher ◦ 12x Lasgun ◦ 2x Meltagun ◦ 2x Plasma gun

Tempestus Scions (60 Points) • 1x Tempestor ◦ 1x Plasma pistol ◦ 1x Power fist • 4x Tempestus Scion ◦ 4x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Hot-shot lasgun ◦ 1x Hot-shot laspistol ◦ 1x Meltagun ◦ 1x Plasma gun ◦ 1x Vox-caster

Tempestus Scions (120 Points) • 1x Tempestor ◦ 1x Plasma pistol ◦ 1x Power fist • 9x Tempestus Scion ◦ 9x Close combat weapon ◦ 4x Hot-shot lasgun ◦ 1x Hot-shot laspistol ◦ 2x Meltagun ◦ 2x Plasma gun ◦ 1x Vox-caster

Tempestus Scions (120 Points) • 1x Tempestor ◦ 1x Plasma pistol ◦ 1x Power fist • 9x Tempestus Scion ◦ 9x Close combat weapon ◦ 4x Hot-shot lasgun ◦ 1x Hot-shot laspistol ◦ 2x Meltagun ◦ 2x Plasma gun ◦ 1x Vox-caster

Tempestus Scions (120 Points) • 1x Tempestor ◦ 1x Plasma pistol ◦ 1x Power fist • 9x Tempestus Scion ◦ 9x Close combat weapon ◦ 4x Hot-shot lasgun ◦ 1x Hot-shot laspistol ◦ 2x Hot-shot volley gun ◦ 2x Plasma gun ◦ 1x Vox-caster

DEDICATED TRANSPORTS

Taurox Prime (90 Points) • 1x Armoured tracks • 1x Storm bolter • 1x Taurox gatling cannon • 1x Twin Taurox hot-shot volley gun

Taurox Prime (90 Points) • 1x Armoured tracks • 1x Storm bolter • 1x Taurox gatling cannon • 1x Twin Taurox hot-shot volley gun

OTHER DATASHEETS

Attilan Rough Riders (120 Points) • 1x Rough Rider Sergeant ◦ 1x Hunting lance ◦ 1x Lasgun ◦ 1x Laspistol ◦ 1x Steed's hooves • 9x Rough Rider ◦ 9x Hunting lance ◦ 9x Lasgun ◦ 9x Laspistol ◦ 9x Steed's hooves

Heavy Weapons Squad (50 Points) • 3x Heavy Weapon Team ◦ 3x Las small arms ◦ 3x Mortar ◦ 3x Weapons team close combat weapons

Heavy Weapons Squad (50 Points) • 3x Heavy Weapon Team ◦ 3x Las small arms ◦ 3x Mortar ◦ 3x Weapons team close combat weapons

Heavy Weapons Squad (50 Points) • 3x Heavy Weapon Team ◦ 3x Las small arms ◦ 3x Mortar ◦ 3x Weapons team close combat weapons

Kasrkin (110 Points) • 1x Kasrkin Sergeant ◦ 1x Plasma pistol ◦ 1x Power weapon • 9x Kasrkin ◦ 9x Close combat weapon ◦ 3x Hot-shot lasgun ◦ 1x Hot-shot laspistol ◦ 1x Hot-shot marksman rifle ◦ 1x Melta Mine ◦ 2x Meltagun ◦ 2x Plasma gun ◦ 1x Vox-caster

Kasrkin (110 Points) • 1x Kasrkin Sergeant ◦ 1x Plasma pistol ◦ 1x Power weapon • 9x Kasrkin ◦ 9x Close combat weapon ◦ 3x Hot-shot lasgun ◦ 1x Hot-shot laspistol ◦ 1x Hot-shot marksman rifle ◦ 1x Melta Mine ◦ 2x Meltagun ◦ 2x Plasma gun ◦ 1x Vox-caster

Ogryn Bodyguard (40 Points) • 1x Brute Shield • 1x Bullgryn maul • 1x Close combat weapon

Tempestus Aquilons (110 Points) • 1x Tempestor Aquilon ◦ 1x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Hot-shot lascarbine ◦ 1x Sentry hot‐shot volley gun • 8x Tempestus Aquilon ◦ 8x Close combat weapon ◦ 6x Hot-shot lascarbine ◦ 1x Hot‐shot long‐las ◦ 1x Plasma carbine • 1x Gunfighter ◦ 1x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Hot-shot lascarbine

Tempestus Aquilons (110 Points) • 1x Tempestor Aquilon ◦ 1x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Hot-shot lascarbine ◦ 1x Sentry hot‐shot volley gun • 8x Tempestus Aquilon ◦ 8x Close combat weapon ◦ 6x Hot-shot lascarbine ◦ 1x Hot‐shot long‐las ◦ 1x Plasma carbine • 1x Gunfighter ◦ 1x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Hot-shot lascarbine

Archetype

Bridgehead Infantry Spam

Thoughts

Guard stalwart John gets on the new hotness and packs in the Scions and Kasrkin. I like the tasteful counter charge unit of Rough Riders for those nasty melee pushers, and Mortars help to put the opponent on a timer. Getting the drops in the right places is key here, but when it goes off Bridgehead is really very hard to play against. Fantastic work on the event win!

The Best of the Rest

There were 3 more players on 4-1 records. They were:
  • 2nd - Sebastien Geoffrion - Tyranids (Vanguard Onslaught): Pressure Vanguard with loads of Genestealers and supporting Warrior bricks.
  • 3rd - Valentin Puchkarov - Chaos Space Marines (Creations of Bile): Thirty Possessed Bile, let's go!
  • 4th - Sebastian Hebert - Blood Angels (Liberator Assault Group): MSU Sang Guard, double Vindicator and plenty of other flying murderers in LAG.

Wrap Up

There we are folks! Our meta continues to throw up combat pressure and go-wide shooty threats. It's a world of extremes out there but so many builds seem to be able to win events right now, and we love to see that. Keep on enjoying those hams!

Lowest of Men, out.

Have any questions or feedback? Drop us a note in the comments below or email us at contact@goonhammer.com. Want articles like this linked in your inbox every Monday morning? Sign up for our newsletter. And don’t forget that you can support us on Patreon for backer rewards like early video content, Administratum access, an ad-free experience on our website and more.

Tags: Space Marines | world eaters | Necrons | Death Guard | Warhammer 40k | Aeldari | Dark Angels | grey knights | competitive play | Ynnari | Astra Militarum | Meta Analysis | Competitive Innovations

Thank you for being a friend.

AGE OF SIGMAR 4th EDITION

AoS 4th Edition

WARHAMMER 40,000 10th EDITION

40k 10th Edition

Support us on Patreon to get access to our Discord and exclusive App features.

Thank you for being a friend.

ABOUT US

Tabletop Battles is a very real website full of Posts and Friends.

OUR SOCIALS
Facebook | Instagram | Bsky | YouTube

Sick of the ads? Login with Patreon.

Manage your cookie settings