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

Competitive Innovations in 10th: In Their Element pt.3

by James "One_Wing" Grover | Oct 11 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 3 on Saturday:
  • Hanseatic Alliance Open
  • Edmonton Wargaming Open 40k 2025
  • Sydney Supermajor - NSWTC
  • Bourbon City Brawl 40K GT
  • Grand Tournament against Cancer
Part 1 on Wednesday:
  • LVO XII Warhammer 40k Champs
  • Denver 40K Fight Club October Open 2025
  • Albany Borealis GT
  • RoGB NW 40k Event
  • Palladium Games Presents "the dumpster fire gt" Fall Edition
  • Sonoma Con GT
Part 2 on Friday:
  • Michigan GT 40k Champs
  • Dragon Fall 40k Worlds Qualifier
  • Santiago Open
  • Battle at The Guild 4th GT
  • I. Würfelgötter Royal Rumble XXL Gelsenkirchen
  • OCB 40k Turnier am HeroFest

Hanseatic Alliance Open

186-player, 8-round Supermajor in Bremen, Germany on October 03 2025. All the lists for this event can be found on Tabletop Herald.

Malte Höfs - Raven Guard (Shadowmark Talon) - 1st Place

Aethon Shaan. Credit: Dan Boyd

The List

Army List - Click to Expand


Alpha Legion Primaris (2000 points)

Space Marines Raven Guard Strike Force (2000 points) Shadowmark Talon

CHARACTERS

Aethon Shaan (85 points) • Warlord • 1x Claws of Severax 1x Heavy bolt pistol

Captain with Jump Pack (100 points) • 1x Relic Shield 1x Thunder hammer • Enhancement: Hunter’s Instincts

Kayvaan Shrike (100 points) • 1x Blackout 1x The Raven’s Talons

Lieutenant with Combi-weapon (100 points) • 1x Combi-weapon 1x Paired combat blades • Enhancement: Coronal Susurrant

BATTLELINE

Intercessor Squad (80 points) • 1x Intercessor Sergeant • 1x Astartes grenade launcher 1x Bolt pistol 1x Bolt rifle 1x Power weapon • 4x Intercessor • 4x Bolt pistol 4x Bolt rifle 4x Close combat weapon

OTHER DATASHEETS

Centurion Devastator Squad (330 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

Centurion Devastator Squad (165 points) • 1x Devastator Centurion Sergeant • 1x Centurion fists 1x Centurion missile launcher 1x Twin lascannon • 2x Devastator Centurion • 2x Centurion fists 2x Centurion missile launcher 2x Twin lascannon

Inceptor Squad (120 points) • 1x Inceptor Sergeant • 1x Plasma exterminators 1x Close combat weapon • 2x Inceptor • 2x Plasma exterminators 2x Close combat weapon

Inceptor Squad (240 points) • 1x Inceptor Sergeant • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Plasma exterminators • 5x Inceptor • 5x Close combat weapon 5x Plasma exterminators

Inceptor Squad (120 points) • 1x Inceptor Sergeant • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Plasma exterminators • 2x Inceptor • 2x Close combat weapon 2x Plasma exterminators

Incursor Squad (80 points) • 1x Incursor Sergeant • 1x Bolt pistol 1x Occulus bolt carbine 1x Paired combat blades 1x Haywire mine • 4x Incursor • 4x Bolt pistol 4x Occulus bolt carbine 4x Paired combat blades

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

Vanguard Veteran Squad with Jump Packs (190 points) • 1x Vanguard Veteran Sergeant with Jump Pack • 1x Inferno pistol 1x Vanguard Veteran weapon • 9x Vanguard Veteran with Jump Pack • 9x Inferno pistol 9x Vanguard Veteran weapon

Vanguard Veteran Squad with Jump Packs (190 points) • 1x Vanguard Veteran Sergeant with Jump Pack • 1x Inferno pistol 1x Vanguard Veteran weapon • 9x Vanguard Veteran with Jump Pack • 9x Inferno pistol 9x Vanguard Veteran weapon

Exported with App Version: v1.41.0 (98), Data Version: v687

Archetype

Infantry Shadowmark

Thoughts

The Raven Guard menace strikes, proving once again that the Raven Guard cannot ever be trusted with Centurions. Not once. Bouncing those around the board edges blows up the opponent's big stuff, and the pressure threat from early Rapid Ingress on one VanVet unit plus Advance/Charge on the other keeps the enemy from pushing too hard to try and take them down. If, for some reason, Centurions are the wrong firepower, then Inceptors pick up the slack. Brutally high damage and very hard to play around, no surprise to see this one doing so well. Congratulations to Malte.

Christian Breuer - World Eaters (Berzerker Warband) - 2nd Place

Credit: Robert "TheChirurgeon" Jones

The List

Army List - Click to Expand


K (2000 Points)

World Eaters Berzerker Warband Strike Force (2.000 Points)

CHARACTERS

Lord on Juggernaut (115 Points) • 1x Bladed horn • 1x Exalted chainblade • 1x Plasma pistol • Enhancements: Berzerker Glaive

Lord on Juggernaut (90 Points) • 1x Bladed horn • 1x Exalted chainblade • 1x Plasma pistol

Lord on Juggernaut (90 Points) • 1x Bladed horn • 1x Exalted chainblade • 1x Plasma pistol

Slaughterbound (85 Points) • Warlord • 1x Lacerator and daemonic claw

BATTLELINE

Khorne Berzerkers (360 Points) • 1x Khorne Berzerker Champion ◦ 1x Bolt pistol ◦ 1x Chainblade • 19x Khorne Berzerker ◦ 15x Bolt pistol ◦ 15x Chainblade ◦ 1x Icon of Khorne ◦ 4x Khornate eviscerator ◦ 4x Plasma pistol

Khorne Berzerkers (360 Points) • 1x Khorne Berzerker Champion ◦ 1x Bolt pistol ◦ 1x Chainblade • 19x Khorne Berzerker ◦ 15x Bolt pistol ◦ 15x Chainblade ◦ 1x Icon of Khorne ◦ 4x Khornate eviscerator ◦ 4x Plasma pistol

Khorne Berzerkers (360 Points) • 1x Khorne Berzerker Champion ◦ 1x Bolt pistol ◦ 1x Chainblade • 19x Khorne Berzerker ◦ 15x Bolt pistol ◦ 15x Chainblade ◦ 1x Icon of Khorne ◦ 4x Khornate eviscerator ◦ 4x Plasma pistol

OTHER DATASHEETS

Eightbound (135 Points) • 1x Eightbound Champion ◦ 1x Chainblades • 2x Eightbound ◦ 2x Chainblades

Eightbound (135 Points) • 1x Eightbound Champion ◦ 1x Chainblades • 2x Eightbound ◦ 2x Chainblades

Exalted Eightbound (140 Points) • 1x Exalted Eightbound Champion ◦ 1x Chainblades • 2x Exalted Eightbound ◦ 2x Chainblades

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

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

Exported with App Version: v1.41.0 (3), Data Version: v685

Archetype

Hordezerkers

Thoughts

Full send Berzerker horde in second, burying foes under a wall of red power armour at lightning speed. Probably the most binary "can you handle it?" build right now, the answer is that many foes can't, and this bruising build should continue to be a major part of the metagame. Great stuff from Christian.

Patrick Schmitt - Tyranids (Invasion Fleet) - 3rd Place

Credit: Sky Serpent

The List

Army List - Click to Expand


+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ + FACTION KEYWORD: Xenos - Tyranids + DETACHMENT: Invasion Fleet + TOTAL ARMY POINTS: 1995pts + + WARLORD: Char1: The Swarmlord + ENHANCEMENT: Adaptive Biology (on Char2: Hive Tyrant) & Perfectly Adapted (on Char3: Hyperadapted Raveners - Ravener Prime) + NUMBER OF UNITS: 15 + SECONDARY: - Bring It Down: (6x2) + (1x4) - Assassination: 3 Characters - Cull The Horde: 1x5 (before leaders attached) +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Char1: 1x The Swarmlord (220 pts): Warlord, Bone Sabres, Synaptic Pulse Char2: 1x Hive Tyrant (220 pts): Monstrous bonesword and lash whip, Monstrous scything talons Enhancement: Adaptive Biology (+25 pts) Char3: 5x Hyperadapted Raveners (180 pts) • 4x Ravener 3 with Ravener, Ravener heavy claws and talons 1 with Ravener, Ravener heavy claws and talons, Venom bolt • 1x Ravener Prime: Prime claws and talons Enhancement: Perfectly Adapted (+15 pts)

20x Hormagaunts (130 pts): 20 with Hormagaunt talons 10x Hormagaunts (65 pts): 10 with Hormagaunt talons 10x Hormagaunts (65 pts): 10 with Hormagaunt talons

1x Biovores (50 pts): Chitin-barbed limbs, Spore mine launcher 1x Lictor (60 pts): Lictor claws and talons 1x Lictor (60 pts): Lictor claws and talons 5x Raveners (125 pts): 5 with Ravener claws and talons 1x Exocrine (140 pts): Bio-plasmic cannon, Powerful limbs 1x Exocrine (140 pts): Bio-plasmic cannon, Powerful limbs 1x Maleceptor (170 pts): Massive scything talons, Psychic overload 1x Maleceptor (170 pts): Massive scything talons, Psychic overload 1x Tyrannofex (200 pts): Powerful limbs, Stinger salvoes, Rupture cannon

Archetype

All-rounder Invasion Fleet

Thoughts

Big monsters and two speedy bricks in third place, supplementing normal favourites like the Maleceptor and Exocrine with a couple of big role players. Hormagaunts have massive reach, can flip objectives against almost anything, and can devastate lighter hordes, while the full Ravener unit with Critical 5+ can blow up almost any juicy target, and are very versatile thanks to being able to jump into Reserves. Nothing too fancy beyond that, but Patrick pulled off a big suite of wins, only dropping one to the winning Raven Guard, which is no mean feat with a faction that's definitely a little behind the curve in the emerging metagame.

Pierre Debey - Chaos Knights (Infernal Lance) - 4th Place

Cerastus Knight Lancer. Credit: Rockfish Cerastus Knight Lancer. Credit: Rockfish

The List

Army List - Click to Expand


Yalalalala... (1995 points)

Chaos Knights Strike Force (2000 points) Infernal Lance

CHARACTERS

Chaos Cerastus Knight Lancer (385 points) • 1x Cerastus shock lance

Knight Despoiler (375 points) • Warlord • 2x Despoiler gatling cannon 1x Diabolus heavy stubber 2x Heavy darkflamer 1x Ruinspear rocket pod 1x Titanic feet

Knight Despoiler (375 points) • 2x Despoiler gatling cannon 1x Diabolus heavy stubber 2x Heavy darkflamer 1x Ruinspear rocket pod 1x Titanic feet

OTHER DATASHEETS

War Dog Brigand (140 points) • 1x Armoured feet 1x Avenger chaincannon 1x Daemonbreath spear 1x Havoc multi-launcher

War Dog Karnivore (150 points) • 1x Diabolus heavy stubber 1x Reaper chaintalon 1x Slaughterclaw

War Dog Karnivore (150 points) • 1x Diabolus heavy stubber 1x Reaper chaintalon 1x Slaughterclaw

War Dog Stalker (140 points) • 1x Avenger chaincannon 1x Havoc multi-launcher 1x Reaper chaintalon

ALLIED UNITS

Beasts of Nurgle (65 points) • 1x Putrid appendages

Beasts of Nurgle (65 points) • 1x Putrid appendages

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

Plaguebearers (110 points) • 1x Plagueridden • 1x Plaguesword • 9x Plaguebearer • 9x Plaguesword

Archetype

Lancer Infernals

Thoughts

Infernal Knights close out the top four, combinging two of the expected gatling Despoilers with a Lancer for some heavier melee pressure, and defence against the same. Still plenty of dakka from two Despoilers, of course, and if you're excited to roll foes over, adding a melee threat (and a durable one at that) obviously helps. You can't really go wrong by just hitting all gatlings, but at least there's the option of adding some variety, so that's nice. Well done to Pierre.

The Best of the Rest

There were 22 more players on 6-2+ records. They were:
  • 5th (7-1) - Pascal Haberstroh - Adeptus Mechanicus (Skitarii Hunter Cohort): Lots of Ironstriders and a toolbox of elite Skitarii.
  • 6th - Niklas Frerichs -Emperor's Children (Coterie of the Conceited): Fulgrim Coterie, cutting down to a single Daemon prince to afford it.
  • 7th - Till Jänke - Aeldari (Aspect Host): Five Phoenix fiesta with two Falcons to set up Asurmen and Maugan.
  • 8th - Jannek Lindemann - T’au Empire (Mont'Ka): Mont'ka suits and hulls.
  • 9th - Jan Reisenauer - Dark Angels (Company of Hunters): Centurion and Ravenwing Command Squad Hunters, also featuring the Lion.
  • 10th - Sebastian Köhler - Dark Angels (Company of Hunters): An even bigger lean in on Ravenwing, bringing big units of Black Knights.
  • 11th - Manuel Wayand - World Eaters (Berzerker Warband): All-rounder Warband with 3x10 Berzerkers.
  • 12th - Andre Fischer - Chaos Knights (Infernal Lance): Triple gatling Despoilers.
  • 13th - Felix Adam - Emperor's Children (Coterie of the Conceited): Fulgrim Coterie again, did I miss a memo at some point?
  • 14th - Simon Rosen - World Eaters (Berzerker Warband): One big Berzerker unit with all-rounder support.
  • 15th - Sami Amr - Chaos Space Marines (Pactbound Zealots): An Abaddon gunline blast from the past.
  • 16th - Wesselin Georgiev - Space Wolves (Gladius Task Force): Herohammer-ish Gladius Wolves, featuring lots of the named Characters and appropriate bodyguards, including a full Blood Claw unit for Ragnar.
  • 17th - Jamil Seif - Chaos Daemons (Daemonic Incursion): Khorne-skewed monster mash.
  • 18th - Max Schierbecker - Aeldari (Guardian Battlehost):  Big Guardian and Warlock Conclave doomstacks with a scattering of utility Aspects.
  • 19th - Marc Wörz - Necrons (Awakened Dynasty): Silent King, Doomsdays and lots of Skorpekh/Lord MSUs.
  • 20th - Matthias Ehrhardt - Adeptus Mechanicus (Skitarii Hunter Cohort): Cawl, six Isonstriders and various Skitarii.
  • 21st - Matthias Bellmann - Aeldari (Aspect Host): Dragon bus, Maugan in a Falcon, lots of Aspect MSUs.
  • 22nd - Moritz Mantel - Necrons (Awakened Dynasty): One big Warrior unit with double C'tan in support.
  • 23rd - Christian Matschke - Adepta Sororitas (Hallowed Martyrs): Tanks and Dominions, Vahl, and a murder Zephyrim unit.
  • 24th - Alexander Janzen - Chaos Knights (Infernal Lance): Triple gatling Despoilers.
  • 25th - Ben Hackländer - Black Templars (Gladius Task Force): Sword Brethren and RepExes.
  • 26th - Philipp Janßen - T’au Empire (Mont'Ka): Triptide and Fireknife Mont'ka.

Edmonton Wargaming Open 40k 2025

100-player, 5-round Grand Tournament in St. Albert, AB, Canada on October 04 2025. All the lists for this event can be found in Best Coast Pairings.

Jake Chalmers - Chaos Daemons (Daemonic Incursion) - 1st Place

Credit: Robert "TheChirurgeon" Jones

The List

Army List - Click to Expand
Everything we see is a perspective, not the truth. So what misplaced certainties do you hold onto? (1995 Points)

Chaos Daemons Daemonic Incursion Strike Force (2,000 Points)

CHARACTERS

Exalted Flamer (65 Points) • 1x Fire of Tzeentch • 1x Flamer mouths

Great Unclean One (295 Points) • Warlord • 1x Bilesword • 1x Plague flail • 1x Putrid vomit • Enhancements: The Endless Gift

Great Unclean One (250 Points) • 1x Bilesword • 1x Plague flail • 1x Putrid vomit

Rendmaster on Blood Throne (165 Points) • 1x Attendants' hellblades • 1x Blade of blood

Rotigus (250 Points) • 1x Gnarlrod • 1x Streams of brackish filth

BATTLELINE

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

OTHER DATASHEETS

Beasts of Nurgle (65 Points) • 1x Putrid appendages

Beasts of Nurgle (65 Points) • 1x Putrid appendages

Bloodcrushers (220 Points) • 1x Bloodhunter ◦ 1x Hellblade ◦ 1x Juggernaut's bladed horn • 5x Bloodcrusher ◦ 1x Daemonic Icon ◦ 5x Hellblade ◦ 1x Instrument of Chaos ◦ 5x Juggernaut's bladed horn

Bloodcrushers (220 Points) • 1x Bloodhunter ◦ 1x Hellblade ◦ 1x Juggernaut's bladed horn • 5x Bloodcrusher ◦ 1x Daemonic Icon ◦ 5x Hellblade ◦ 1x Instrument of Chaos ◦ 5x Juggernaut's bladed horn

Flamers (130 Points) • 1x Pyrocaster ◦ 1x Flamer mouths ◦ 1x Flickering flames • 5x Flamer ◦ 5x Flamer mouths ◦ 5x Flickering flames

Screamers (160 Points) • 6x Screamer ◦ 6x Lamprey bite

Archetype

Hammer and Anvil Daemons

Thoughts

A showing for Incursion here, mixing a trio of big round boys with some Bloodcrushers to slam out of the warp into the foe. A little surprised to not see either Be'lakor or one of the Khorne Greater Daemons to help tee them up, but I guess that if you're only bringing in one a turn you can just use the 6" Stratagem, or make sure you have the Shadow up in No Man's Land (not too hard with that many hefty position holders). Charge Mortals are a really good thing to have right now, as the rise of Krootox over in T'au also shows, and unleashing Rendmaster-powered Bloodcrushers will flatten a lot of stuff at a relatively good price. They also contribute this list to having a surprisingly deep well of wounds for foes to chew through even after the big guys go down, especially with Screamers and Flamers as well. Quite a focused plan from Daemons here that paid off, great stuff from Jake.

Kass Kielly-Burke - Adepta Sororitas (Hallowed Martyrs) - 2nd Place (Undefeated)

Credit: Keewa

The List

Army List - Click to Expand
K-pop Daemons for the Oscar (1995 points)

Adepta Sororitas Strike Force (2000 points) Hallowed Martyrs

CHARACTERS

Canoness (60 points) • 1x Condemnor boltgun 1x Hallowed chainsword 1x Null Rod • Enhancement: Saintly Example

Canoness with Jump Pack (100 points) • 1x Blessed halberd • Enhancement: Through Suffering, Strength

Hospitaller (50 points) • 1x Bolt pistol 1x Chirurgeon's tools

Junith Eruita (80 points) • 1x Mace of Castigation 1x Twin Ministorum heavy flamer

Morvenn Vahl (170 points) • Warlord • 1x Fidelis 1x Lance of Illumination 1x Paragon missile launcher

Palatine (50 points) • 1x Palatine blade 1x Plasma pistol

BATTLELINE

Battle Sisters Squad (105 points) • 1x Sister Superior • 1x Bolt pistol 1x Close combat weapon 1x Plasma pistol 1x Power weapon • 9x Battle Sister • 9x Bolt pistol 7x Boltgun 9x Close combat weapon 1x Meltagun 1x Multi-melta 1x Simulacrum Imperialis

DEDICATED TRANSPORTS

Immolator (115 points) • 1x Armoured tracks 1x Heavy bolter 1x Hunter-killer missile 1x Twin multi-melta

Immolator (115 points) • 1x Armoured tracks 1x Heavy bolter 1x Hunter-killer missile 1x Twin multi-melta

OTHER DATASHEETS

Arco-flagellants (45 points) • 3x Arco-flagellant • 3x Arco-flails

Castigator (160 points) • 1x Armoured tracks 1x Castigator autocannons 3x Heavy bolter 1x Hunter-killer missile 1x Storm bolter

Castigator (160 points) • 1x Armoured tracks 1x Castigator autocannons 3x Heavy bolter 1x Hunter-killer missile 1x Storm bolter

Celestian Sacresants (130 points) • 1x Sacresant Superior • 1x Hallowed mace 1x Inferno pistol • 9x Celestian Sacresant • 9x Bolt pistol 9x Hallowed mace

Paragon Warsuits (210 points) • 1x Paragon Superior • 1x Bolt pistol 1x Multi-melta 1x Paragon grenade launchers 1x Paragon war blade • 2x Paragon • 2x Bolt pistol 2x Multi-melta 2x Paragon grenade launchers 2x Paragon war blade

Retributor Squad (105 points) • 1x Retributor Superior • 1x Bolt pistol 1x Close combat weapon 1x Inferno pistol 1x Power weapon • 4x Retributor • 4x Bolt pistol 4x Close combat weapon 4x Multi-melta

Seraphim Squad (80 points) • 1x Seraphim Superior • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Plasma pistol 1x Power weapon • 4x Seraphim • 4x Bolt pistol 4x Close combat weapon 4x Ministorum hand flamer

Seraphim Squad (80 points) • 1x Seraphim Superior • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Plasma pistol 1x Power weapon • 4x Seraphim • 4x Bolt pistol 4x Close combat weapon 4x Ministorum hand flamer

Sisters Novitiate Squad (100 points) • 1x Novitiate Superior • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Plasma pistol 1x Power weapon • 9x Sister Novitiate • 5x Autogun 9x Autopistol 9x Close combat weapon 2x Ministorum flamer 1x Sacred Banner 1x Simulacrum Imperialis

Zephyrim Squad (80 points) • 1x Zephyrim Superior • 1x Plasma pistol 1x Power weapon 1x Sacred Banner • 4x Zephyrim • 4x Bolt pistol 4x Power weapon

Exported with App Version: v1.41.0 (98), Data Version: v687

Archetype

All-rounder Martyrs

Thoughts

A classic Martyrs build takes the second undefeated slot here, taking a bit of everything and leaning on the Saintly Example Canoness to die profitably to get early scoring and Miracle Dice rolling. Miracle Dice, Vahl, murder Zephyrim Canoness, and a squad of new Retributors give this list some fantastic damage spike potential, while Castigators and a Sacresant brick can play a grindier game if the opponent tries to be more cautious. Very adaptable, very reliable when it lunges, and a strong showcase for what Sisters can do, well done Kass.

Josh Stapleton - Adepta Sororitas (Hallowed Martyrs) - 3rd Place (Undefeated)

Credit: Keewa

The List

Army List - Click to Expand


Pickles (1995 points)

Adepta Sororitas Strike Force (2000 points) Hallowed Martyrs

CHARACTERS

Canoness (60 points) • 1x Condemnor boltgun 1x Hallowed chainsword 1x Null Rod • Enhancement: Saintly Example

Canoness with Jump Pack (100 points) • 1x Blessed halberd • Enhancement: Through Suffering, Strength

Hospitaller (50 points) • 1x Bolt pistol 1x Chirurgeon's tools

Junith Eruita (80 points) • 1x Mace of Castigation 1x Twin Ministorum heavy flamer

Morvenn Vahl (170 points) • Warlord • 1x Fidelis 1x Lance of Illumination 1x Paragon missile launcher

Palatine (50 points) • 1x Palatine blade 1x Plasma pistol

BATTLELINE

Battle Sisters Squad (105 points) • 1x Sister Superior • 1x Bolt pistol 1x Close combat weapon 1x Inferno pistol 1x Power weapon • 9x Battle Sister • 9x Bolt pistol 7x Boltgun 9x Close combat weapon 1x Meltagun 1x Multi-melta 1x Simulacrum Imperialis

DEDICATED TRANSPORTS

Immolator (115 points) • 1x Armoured tracks 1x Heavy bolter 1x Hunter-killer missile 1x Twin multi-melta

Immolator (115 points) • 1x Armoured tracks 1x Heavy bolter 1x Hunter-killer missile 1x Twin multi-melta

OTHER DATASHEETS

Arco-flagellants (45 points) • 3x Arco-flagellant • 3x Arco-flails

Castigator (160 points) • 1x Armoured tracks 1x Castigator autocannons 3x Heavy bolter 1x Hunter-killer missile 1x Storm bolter

Castigator (160 points) • 1x Armoured tracks 1x Castigator autocannons 3x Heavy bolter 1x Hunter-killer missile 1x Storm bolter

Celestian Sacresants (130 points) • 1x Sacresant Superior • 1x Hallowed mace 1x Inferno pistol • 9x Celestian Sacresant • 9x Bolt pistol 9x Hallowed mace

Paragon Warsuits (210 points) • 1x Paragon Superior • 1x Bolt pistol 1x Multi-melta 1x Paragon grenade launchers 1x Paragon war blade • 2x Paragon • 2x Bolt pistol 2x Multi-melta 2x Paragon grenade launchers 2x Paragon war blade

Retributor Squad (105 points) • 1x Retributor Superior • 1x Bolt pistol 1x Close combat weapon 1x Inferno pistol 1x Power weapon • 4x Retributor • 4x Bolt pistol 4x Close combat weapon 4x Multi-melta

Seraphim Squad (80 points) • 1x Seraphim Superior • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Plasma pistol 1x Power weapon • 4x Seraphim • 4x Bolt pistol 4x Close combat weapon 4x Ministorum hand flamer

Seraphim Squad (80 points) • 1x Seraphim Superior • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Plasma pistol 1x Power weapon • 4x Seraphim • 4x Bolt pistol 4x Close combat weapon 4x Ministorum hand flamer

Sisters Novitiate Squad (100 points) • 1x Novitiate Superior • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Plasma pistol 1x Power weapon • 9x Sister Novitiate • 9x Autopistol 4x Close combat weapon 2x Ministorum flamer 5x Novitiate melee weapons 1x Sacred Banner 1x Simulacrum Imperialis

Zephyrim Squad (80 points) • 1x Zephyrim Superior • 1x Plasma pistol 1x Power weapon 1x Sacred Banner • 4x Zephyrim • 4x Bolt pistol 4x Power weapon

Exported with App Version: v1.41.0 (98), Data Version: v687

Archetype

All-rounder Martyrs

Thoughts

Yeah and if you had any doubts about how effective a showcase for Sisters this list is, it took the third undefeated slot as well. It's point-for-point the same, and it's clearly super potent, congratulations to Josh as well.

Frasier Parry - World Eaters (Berzerker Warband) - 4th Place

World Eaters Forgefiend. Credit: Corrode

The List

Army List - Click to Expand
Hold my beer and watch this

World Eaters Berzerker Warband Strike Force (2,000 Points)

CHARACTERS

Daemon Prince of Khorne (220 Points) • Warlord • 1x Hellforged weapons • 1x Infernal cannon • Enhancements: Helm of Brazen Ire

Khârn the Betrayer (100 Points) • 1x Gorechild • 1x Plasma pistol

Master of Executions (85 Points) • 1x Axe of dismemberment • 1x Bolt pistol • Enhancements: Berzerker Glaive

Slaughterbound (100 Points) • 1x Lacerator and daemonic claw • Enhancements: Favoured of Khorne

Slaughterbound (85 Points) • 1x Lacerator and daemonic claw

BATTLELINE

Khorne Berzerkers (180 Points) • 1x Khorne Berzerker Champion ◦ 1x Chainblade ◦ 1x Plasma pistol • 9x Khorne Berzerker ◦ 7x Bolt pistol ◦ 7x Chainblade ◦ 1x Icon of Khorne ◦ 2x Khornate eviscerator ◦ 2x Plasma pistol

Khorne Berzerkers (180 Points) • 1x Khorne Berzerker Champion ◦ 1x Chainblade ◦ 1x Plasma pistol • 9x Khorne Berzerker ◦ 7x Bolt pistol ◦ 7x Chainblade ◦ 1x Icon of Khorne ◦ 2x Khornate eviscerator ◦ 2x Plasma pistol

DEDICATED TRANSPORTS

Chaos Rhino (85 Points) • 1x Armoured tracks • 1x Combi-bolter • 1x Combi-bolter • 1x Havoc launcher

OTHER DATASHEETS

Chaos Spawn (90 Points) • 2x Chaos Spawn ◦ 2x Hideous mutations

Chaos Spawn (90 Points) • 2x Chaos Spawn ◦ 2x Hideous mutations

Chaos Spawn (90 Points) • 2x Chaos Spawn ◦ 2x Hideous mutations

Exalted Eightbound (140 Points) • 1x Exalted Eightbound Champion ◦ 1x Chainblades • 2x Exalted Eightbound ◦ 2x Chainblades

Exalted Eightbound (140 Points) • 1x Exalted Eightbound Champion ◦ 1x Chainblades • 2x Exalted Eightbound ◦ 2x Chainblades

Forgefiend (170 Points) • 2x Ectoplasma cannon • 1x Ectoplasma cannon • 1x Forgefiend claws

Forgefiend (170 Points) • 2x Ectoplasma cannon • 1x Ectoplasma cannon • 1x Forgefiend claws

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

Exported with App Version: v1.41.0 (3), Data Version: v685

Archetype

All-rounder Warband

Thoughts

The all-rounder version of Berzerker Warband rounds out this top four, capable of engaging very flexibly thanks to the combination of Berzerkers, Forgefiends and Eightbound, and with good depth from Spawn and some support tools. Does a bit of everything, and can still snowball foes off the table at speed if they're not careful. Good job Frasier.

The Best of the Rest

There were 14 more players on 4-1 records. They were:
  • 5th - Michael Tobin - World Eaters (Berzerker Warband): One ten Berzerker unit then lots of Eightbound and some Forgefiends.
  • 6th - Brynn Holdstock - Leagues of Votann (Needgaârd Oathband): Needgaard goodstuff with double Fort, one big Hearthguard unit, and one large melee Steeljack squad.
  • 7th - Conor Clarkson - Adeptus Custodes (Solar Spearhead): Dreadnoughts galore, a couple of Caladius, and one Bike unit with a murder captain.
  • 8th - Anthony Neithercut - Aeldari (Warhost): Dragon and Reaper buses.
  • 9th - Simon Baines - Aeldari (Seer Council): A squad of each Guardian flavour and three Dragon MSUs to teleport around causing problems.
  • 10th - Kyle Grant - Adeptus Mechanicus (Haloscreed Battle Clade): Crunchier Haloscreed with the full triple Skorpius, a Destroyer block, and lots of Ruststalkers.
  • 11th - Tyler Gatehouse - World Eaters (Berzerker Warband): One ten Berzerker unit with Eightbound and Forgefiend support.
  • 12th - Thomas Berry - Necrons (Awakened Dynasty): The Silent King, Doomsdays, and lots of Lychguard for them to hide behind.
  • 13th - Diego Mella - Chaos Space Marines (Chaos Cult): Board flood Cult nonsense with triple Accursed Commune and 36 Nurgling bases.
  • 14th - Ryan Mcleod - Leagues of Votann (Needgaârd Oathband): Triple Fortress Needgaard with extra board presence from Yaegirs and Kapricii.
  • 15th - Scott Fox - Tyranids (Vanguard Onslaught): Aggro melee Infantry, two full Ravener stacks, two Genestealer/Broodlord units, and one big Warrior squad for a heavier volume hammer.
  • 16th - Joshawa Richter - T'au Empire (Retaliation Cadre): All-in Crisis toolbox with six Commanders and squads of various flavours.
  • 17th - Rhett Tremblay - Imperial Knights (Questoris Companions): Aggro bigs with two Lancers, an Atrapos and a vicious anti-fly Crusader.
  • 18th - Adam Schneider - Death Guard (Virulent Vectorium): Mortarion Vectorium goodstuff.

Sydney Supermajor - NSWTC

48-player, 8-round Major in Sutherland, NSW, Australia on October 03 2025. All the lists for this event can be found in Best Coast Pairings.

Nathan Princi - Chaos Knights (Infernal Lance) - 1st Place

War Dog - Karnivore. Credit: Rockfish War Dog - Karnivore. Credit: Rockfish

The List

Army List - Click to Expand
Pls don't laschicken or repex me. This ain't it for this meta (1990 points)

Chaos Knights Strike Force (2000 points) Infernal Lance

CHARACTERS

Knight Despoiler (375 points) • Warlord • 1x Daemonbreath meltagun 2x Despoiler gatling cannon 2x Heavy darkflamer 1x Ruinspear rocket pod 1x Titanic feet

Knight Despoiler (395 points) • 1x Daemonbreath meltagun 2x Despoiler gatling cannon 2x Heavy darkflamer 1x Ruinspear rocket pod 1x Titanic feet • Enhancement: Bestial Aspect

Knight Despoiler (375 points) • 1x Daemonbreath meltagun 2x Despoiler gatling cannon 2x Heavy darkflamer 1x Ruinspear rocket pod 1x Titanic feet

OTHER DATASHEETS

War Dog Karnivore (150 points) • 1x Havoc multi-launcher 1x Reaper chaintalon 1x Slaughterclaw

War Dog Karnivore (150 points) • 1x Havoc multi-launcher 1x Reaper chaintalon 1x Slaughterclaw

War Dog Karnivore (150 points) • 1x Havoc multi-launcher 1x Reaper chaintalon 1x Slaughterclaw

ALLIED UNITS

Beasts of Nurgle (65 points) • 1x Putrid appendages

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

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

Rotigus (250 points) • 1x Gnarlrod 1x Streams of brackish filth

Exported with App Version: v1.41.0 (98), Data Version: v687

Archetype

Gatling Infernals with Rotigus

Thoughts

We saw it in the LVO top four, and here it is taking down another event across the pacific. Triple Gatling Infernals is one of the most overwhelming damage dealing configurations in the game (and the best answer to horder World Eaters, so specifically able to prey on another big player), and adding Rotigus just cheerfully shuts out some builds angles on handling it. Well done to Nathan on the win.

The Best of the Rest

There was 1 more player on 6-2+ records. They were:
  • 2nd (7-1) - Alex Rigby - Chaos Knights (Infernal Lance):  Triple gatling Despoilers with more Dogs and Plaguebearers instead of Rotigus.
  • 3rd - Ashley Thompson - Adepta Sororitas (Champions of Faith): Sacresant spam backed by Retributors and Vahl's unit.
  • 4th - Matt Hearne - Astra Militarum (Combined Arms): Triple Dorn Commander and two big Bullgryn blocks to protect them.

Bourbon City Brawl 40K GT

36-player, 5-round Grand Tournament in Shepherdsville, KY, United States on October 04 2025. All the lists for this event can be found in Best Coast Pairings.

Luke Rolph - T'au Empire (Kroot Hunting Pack) - 1st Place

Krootox Rampager Krootox Rampager. Credit: Jack Hunter

The List

Army List - Click to Expand
Ram'Myr Kinband (2000 points)

T'au Empire Strike Force (2000 points) Kroot Hunting Pack

CHARACTERS

Kroot Flesh Shaper (55 points) • 1x Kroot scattergun 1x Twin ritualistic blades • Enhancement: Kroothawk Flock

Kroot Lone-spear (80 points) • Warlord • 1x Blast javelin 1x Close combat weapon 1x Hunting javelin 1x Kalamandra's bite

Kroot Lone-spear (80 points) • 1x Blast javelin 1x Close combat weapon 1x Hunting javelin 1x Kalamandra's bite

Kroot Trail Shaper (75 points) • 1x Kroot rifle 1x Shaper's blade • Enhancement: Nomadic Hunter

Kroot War Shaper (60 points) • 1x Dart-bow and tri-blade 1x Kroot pistol 1x Shaper's blade • Enhancement: Root-carved Weapons

BATTLELINE

Kroot Carnivores (65 points) • 1x Long-quill • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Kroot pistol 1x Kroot rifle • 9x Kroot Carnivore • 9x Close combat weapon 9x Kroot rifle

Kroot Carnivores (65 points) • 1x Long-quill • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Kroot pistol 1x Kroot rifle • 9x Kroot Carnivore • 9x Close combat weapon 9x Kroot rifle

Kroot Carnivores (65 points) • 1x Long-quill • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Kroot pistol 1x Kroot rifle • 9x Kroot Carnivore • 9x Close combat weapon 9x Kroot rifle

Kroot Carnivores (140 points) • 1x Long-quill • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Kroot pistol 1x Kroot rifle • 19x Kroot Carnivore • 19x Close combat weapon 19x Kroot rifle

Kroot Carnivores (65 points) • 1x Long-quill • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Kroot pistol 1x Kroot rifle • 9x Kroot Carnivore • 9x Close combat weapon 9x Kroot rifle

OTHER DATASHEETS

Hammerhead Gunship (145 points) • 2x Accelerator burst cannon 1x Armoured hull 1x Railgun 2x Seeker missile

Hammerhead Gunship (145 points) • 2x Accelerator burst cannon 1x Armoured hull 1x Railgun 2x Seeker missile

Kroot Farstalkers (85 points) • 1x Kroot Kill-broker • 1x Farstalker firearm 1x Kroot pistol 1x Ritual blade • 9x Kroot Farstalker • 9x Close combat weapon 1x Dvorgite skinner 8x Farstalker firearm 9x Kroot pistol 1x Pech'ra • 2x Kroot Hound • 2x Ripping fangs

Kroot Hounds (40 points) • 5x Kroot Hound • 5x Ripping fangs

Krootox Rampagers (170 points) • 6x Krootox Rampagers • 6x Hunting blades 6x Kroot pistol and hunting javelins 6x Rampager fists

Krootox Rampagers (170 points) • 6x Krootox Rampagers • 6x Hunting blades 6x Kroot pistol and hunting javelins 6x Rampager fists

Krootox Rampagers (170 points) • 6x Krootox Rampagers • 6x Hunting blades 6x Kroot pistol and hunting javelins 6x Rampager fists

Krootox Riders (60 points) • 2x Krootox Rider • 2x Close combat weapon 2x Krootox fists 2x Repeater cannon

Krootox Riders (60 points) • 2x Krootox Rider • 2x Close combat weapon 2x Krootox fists 2x Repeater cannon

Krootox Riders (60 points) • 2x Krootox Rider • 2x Close combat weapon 2x Krootox fists 2x Repeater cannon

Stealth Battlesuits (80 points) • 1x Stealth Shas'vre • 1x Battlesuit Support System 1x Battlesuit fists 1x Fusion blaster 1x Homing Beacon 1x Marker Drone 1x Shield Drone • 2x Stealth Shas'ui • 2x Battlesuit fists 2x Burst cannon

Vespid Stingwings (65 points) • 1x Vespid Strain Leader • 1x Neutron blaster 1x Stingwing claws • 4x Vespid Stingwing • 4x Neutron blaster 4x Stingwing claws

Exported with App Version: v1.41.0 (98), Data Version: v687

Archetype

Hunting Pack with Hammerheads

Thoughts

Hunting Pack board control with Rampagers continues to be great for board control, but here we see some Hammerheads sneaking back in after a period where most builds didn't use them. I'm assuming the Gatling Infernals we've just covered are why - when there are really high threat vehicle builds out there, a list like this needs something to stop them just getting blasted off the board. I wonder if two Hammerheads is actually quite enough to do that, as you really want to be able to reliably pop a Knight if you go for it, but it's something, and they're also cheap enough that it doesn't detract from the rest of what the list does. Great work from Luke.

The Best of the Rest

There were 5 more players on 4-1 records. They were:
  • 2nd - Aron Huckaba - T'au Empire (Auxiliary Cadre): Starscythes, Triptides and Rampagers, a powerful trifecta.
  • 3rd - Bradley Wagoner - Death Guard (Virulent Vectorium): Vectorium goodstuff, cutting the Daemon Prince to keep triple Deathshroud and triple blight launcher Bloat-drone.
  • 4th - Jamie Grigsby - Tyranids (Invasion Fleet): Maleceptors and Exocrines with double full Genestealer squad and a big Ravener stack.
  • 5th - Taylor Hudson - Emperor's Children (Coterie of the Conceited): Double Prince Coterie with one Maulerfiend snuck in.
  • 6th - Cameron Eaton - Aeldari (Warhost): Dragon bus, Maugan Falcon, and maximum speedy Aspects.

Grand Tournament against Cancer

29-player, 5-round Grand Tournament in Buffalo, NY, United States on October 04 2025. All the lists for this event can be found in Best Coast Pairings.

The Showdown

Supply Drop - Sweeping Engagement

Brian Fenster - Crimson Fists (Gladius Task Force)
Army List - Click to Expand
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ + Someones gotta play CF + FACTION KEYWORD: Imperium - Adeptus Astartes - Imperial Fists + DETACHMENT: Gladius Task Force + TOTAL ARMY POINTS: 2000pts + + WARLORD: Char1: Pedro Kantor + ENHANCEMENT: Artificer Armour (on Char1: Captain) & The Honour Vehement (on Char2: Chaplain) + NUMBER OF UNITS: 18 + SECONDARY: Tactical +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

CHARACTER

Char1: 1x Pedro Kantor (90 pts) 1 with Dorn's Arrow, Fist of Retribution • Warlord

Char2: 1x Captain (90 pts) 1 with Bolt Pistol, Master-crafted Bolter, Power Fist Enhancement: Artificer Armour (+10 pts)

Char3: 1x Chaplain (75 pts) 1 with Absolver Bolt Pistol, Crozius Arcanum Enhancement: The Honour Vehement (+15 pts)

Char4: 1x Lieutenant (65 pts) 1 with Master-crafted Power Weapon, Neo-volkite Pistol, Storm Shield

Char5: 1x Lieutenant with Combi-weapon (70 pts) 1 with Combi-weapon, Paired Combat Blades

BATTLELINE

10x Assault Intercessor Squad (150 pts) • 1x Assault Intercessor Sergeant 1 with Plasma Pistol, Power Fist • Assault Intercessor Sergeant • 9x Assault Intercessors 9 with Astartes Chainsword, Heavy Bolt Pistol • Assault Intercessor

5x Assault Intercessor Squad (75 pts) • 1x Assault Intercessor Sergeant 1 with Plasma Pistol, Power Fist • Assault Intercessor Sergeant • 4x Assault Intercessors 4 with Astartes Chainsword, Heavy Bolt Pistol • Assault Intercessor

5x Heavy Intercessor Squad (100 pts) • 1x Heavy Intercessor Sergeant 1 with Bolt Pistol, Close combat weapon, Heavy Bolt Rifle • Heavy Intercessor Sergeant • 1x Heavy Intercessor 1 with Bolt Pistol, Close combat weapon, Heavy Bolter • Heavy intercessor Squad • 3x Heavy Intercessors 3 with Bolt Pistol, Close combat weapon, Heavy Bolt Rifle • Heavy intercessor Squad

5x Intercessor Squad (80 pts) • 1x Intercessor Sergeant 1 with Bolt Pistol, Bolt Rifle, Close combat weapon • Intercessor Sergeant • 4x Intercessor 3 with Bolt Pistol, Bolt Rifle, Close combat weapon • Intercessor Squad 1 with Astartes Grenade Launcher, Bolt Pistol, Bolt Rifle, Close combat weapon • Intercessor Squad

OTHER DATASHEETS

5x Assault Intercessors with Jump Packs (90 pts) • 1x Assault Intercessor Sergeant with Jump Pack 1 with Plasma Pistol, Power Fist • Assault Intercessor Sergeant with Jump Pack • 4x Assault Intercessors with Jump Pack 3 with Astartes Chainsword, Heavy Bolt Pistol • Assault Intercessors with Jump Packs 1 with Astartes Chainsword, Plasma Pistol • Assault Intercessors with Jump Packs

4x Company Heroes (105 pts) • 1x Ancient 1 with Bolt Pistol, Bolt Rifle, Close combat weapon • Company Heroes • 1x Company Champion 1 with Bolt Pistol, Master-crafted Power Weapon • Company Heroes • 2x Company Veteran 1 with Bolt Pistol, Close combat weapon, Master-crafted Bolt Rifle • Company Heroes 1 with Bolt Pistol, Close combat weapon, Master-crafted Heavy Bolter • Company Heroes

3x Eradicator Squad (100 pts) • 1x Eradicator 1 with Bolt Pistol, Close combat weapon, Melta Rifle • Eradicator Squad • 1x Eradicator Sergeant 1 with Bolt Pistol, Close combat weapon, Melta Rifle • Eradicator Sergeant • 1x Eradicator with Multi-melta 1 with Bolt Pistol, Close combat weapon, Multi-melta • Eradicator Squad

5x Infiltrator Squad (100 pts) • 4x Infiltrator 3 with Bolt Pistol, Close combat weapon, Marksman Bolt Carbine • Infiltrator Squad 1 with Bolt Pistol, Close combat weapon, Marksman Bolt Carbine • Helix Gauntlet, Infiltrator Squad • 1x Infiltrator Sergeant 1 with Bolt Pistol, Close combat weapon, Marksman Bolt Carbine • Infiltrator Sergeant

5x Scout Squad (70 pts) • 1x Scout Sergeant 1 with Bolt Pistol, Close combat weapon, Astartes Chainsword • Scout Sergeant • 2x Scout 1 with Bolt Pistol, Close combat weapon, Missile Launcher • Scout Squad 1 with Bolt Pistol, Close combat weapon, Scout Sniper Rifle • Scout Squad • 2x Scouts 2 with Astartes Shotgun, Bolt Pistol, Close combat weapon • Scout Squad

10x Sternguard Veteran Squad (200 pts) • 1x Sternguard Veteran Sergeant 1 with Close combat weapon, Sternguard Bolt Pistol, Power Fist, Sternguard Bolt Rifle • Sternguard Veteran Sergeant • 9x Sternguard Veteran 8 with Close combat weapon, Sternguard Bolt Pistol, Sternguard Bolt Rifle • Sternguard Veteran Squad 1 with Close combat weapon, Sternguard Bolt Pistol, Sternguard Heavy Bolter • Sternguard Veteran Squad

1x Ballistus Dreadnought (150 pts) 1 with Armoured Feet, Ballistus Lascannon, Ballistus Missile Launcher, Twin Storm Bolter

1x Redemptor Dreadnought (195 pts) 1 with Icarus Rocket Pod, Redemptor Fist, Macro Plasma Incinerator, Onslaught Gatling Cannon, Twin Storm Bolter

1x Redemptor Dreadnought (195 pts) 1 with Icarus Rocket Pod, Redemptor Fist, Macro Plasma Incinerator, Heavy Flamer, Twin Fragstorm Grenade Launcher



vs.

Aaron Frick - Leagues of Votann (Needgaârd Oathband)
Army List - Click to Expand
.2000 Votann (Need) (1985 points)

Leagues of Votann Strike Force (2000 points) Needgaârd Oathband

CHARACTERS

Kâhl (100 points) • 1x Mass gauntlet 1x Rampart Crest 1x Volkanite disintegrator • Enhancement: Oathbound Speculator

Memnyr Strategist (55 points) • 1x Autoch-pattern bolt pistol 1x Close combat weapon • Enhancement: Dead Reckoning

Ûthar the Destined (95 points) • Warlord • 1x Blade of the Ancestors 1x Rampart Crest 1x Volkanite disintegrator

DEDICATED TRANSPORTS

Kapricus Carrier (75 points) • 1x Armoured hull 1x Magna-coil autocannon 1x Smoke Launcher 1x Twin magna‑coil autocannon

OTHER DATASHEETS

Brôkhyr Thunderkyn (80 points) • 3x Brôkhyr Thunderkyn • 3x Close combat weapon 3x SP conversion beamer

Brôkhyr Thunderkyn (80 points) • 3x Brôkhyr Thunderkyn • 3x Close combat weapon 3x Graviton blast cannon

Brôkhyr Thunderkyn (80 points) • 3x Brôkhyr Thunderkyn • 3x Close combat weapon 3x Graviton blast cannon

Einhyr Hearthguard (270 points) • 1x Hesyr • 1x EtaCarn plasma gun 1x Exoarmour grenade launcher 1x Graviton hammer 1x Teleport Crest • 9x Einhyr Hearthguard • 9x Concussion gauntlet 9x EtaCarn plasma gun 9x Exoarmour grenade launcher

Hekaton Land Fortress (240 points) • 1x Armoured wheels 1x MATR autocannon 1x Panspectral Scanner 1x SP heavy conversion beamer 2x Twin bolt cannon

Hekaton Land Fortress (240 points) • 1x Armoured wheels 1x Heavy magna-rail cannon 1x MATR autocannon 1x Panspectral Scanner 2x Twin bolt cannon

Hekaton Land Fortress (240 points) • 1x Armoured wheels 1x Heavy magna-rail cannon 1x MATR autocannon 1x Panspectral Scanner 2x Twin bolt cannon

Hernkyn Pioneers (80 points) • 3x Hernkyn Pioneer • 3x Bolt revolver 3x Bolt shotgun 1x HYLas rotary cannon 3x Magna-coil autocannon 1x Panspectral Scanner 3x Plasma knife 1x Rollbar Searchlight

Hernkyn Pioneers (80 points) • 3x Hernkyn Pioneer • 3x Bolt revolver 3x Bolt shotgun 1x HYLas rotary cannon 3x Magna-coil autocannon 1x Panspectral Scanner 3x Plasma knife 1x Rollbar Searchlight

Hernkyn Yaegirs (90 points) • 1x Yaegir Theyn • 1x Bolt revolver 1x Close combat weapon 1x Plasma knife • 9x Hernkyn Yaegir • 1x APM launcher 7x Bolt revolver 9x Close combat weapon 1x Magna-coil rifle 7x Plasma knife

Ironkin Steeljacks with Melee Weapons (180 points) • 1x Steeljack Theyn • 1x Autoch-pattern bolter 1x Plasma sword 1x Preymark Crest • 5x Ironkin Steeljack • 5x Autoch-pattern bolter 5x Plasma sword

Exported with App Version: v1.41.0 (98), Data Version: v687

Thoughts

An ultra rare Marine showing here, with Pedro Kantor rocking into battle at the helm of an all-rounder Astartes build, facing off against the new Votann. Pedro with Sternguard in their current incarnation is very much an alpha threat here, able to obliterate almost anything when he pops his once-per-game, but there are a lot of big targets amongst the Votann forces here, so their work is going to be cut out for them. Votann-wise, it's the all-rounder Needgaard special - three Forts and an Ironkin unit as anchors, a big Hearthguard unit out of Reserves and some Thunderkyn to push damage.

On Supply Drop, this ends up super rough for the Marines, because while they can pop a few big targets, the Forts stop them having control of the tempo of killing. On some missions, pressing the board while forcing caution from the Forts might still pull them ahead, but Supply Drop stops that working; there's such a premium on being the last one standing come turns four and five that the Votann can just play a very methodical murder game, and be confident of pulling ahead at the end. Essentially, to make anything happen here the Marines will need to commit quite a bit of stuff, and the Votann can quite reliably roll that up in response, so they're going to end up winning the damage race handily. You can't even really go ham with the Dreadnoughts as the Marines to try and snowball things, because two of the Land Fortresses have railguns and will mess them up badly. Honestly, not massively sure what the Marines can do to tip the scales here, and despite Kantor's leadership, they didn't find the answer either.

Result

Leagues of Votann (Needgaârd Oathband) Victory - 84 - 58

Aaron Frick - Leagues of Votann (Needgaârd Oathband) - 1st Place

Brôkhyr Thunderkyn. Credit: Rockfish Brôkhyr Thunderkyn. Credit: Rockfish

The List

Army List - Click to Expand
.2000 Votann (Need) (1985 points)

Leagues of Votann Strike Force (2000 points) Needgaârd Oathband

CHARACTERS

Kâhl (100 points) • 1x Mass gauntlet 1x Rampart Crest 1x Volkanite disintegrator • Enhancement: Oathbound Speculator

Memnyr Strategist (55 points) • 1x Autoch-pattern bolt pistol 1x Close combat weapon • Enhancement: Dead Reckoning

Ûthar the Destined (95 points) • Warlord • 1x Blade of the Ancestors 1x Rampart Crest 1x Volkanite disintegrator

DEDICATED TRANSPORTS

Kapricus Carrier (75 points) • 1x Armoured hull 1x Magna-coil autocannon 1x Smoke Launcher 1x Twin magna‑coil autocannon

OTHER DATASHEETS

Brôkhyr Thunderkyn (80 points) • 3x Brôkhyr Thunderkyn • 3x Close combat weapon 3x SP conversion beamer

Brôkhyr Thunderkyn (80 points) • 3x Brôkhyr Thunderkyn • 3x Close combat weapon 3x Graviton blast cannon

Brôkhyr Thunderkyn (80 points) • 3x Brôkhyr Thunderkyn • 3x Close combat weapon 3x Graviton blast cannon

Einhyr Hearthguard (270 points) • 1x Hesyr • 1x EtaCarn plasma gun 1x Exoarmour grenade launcher 1x Graviton hammer 1x Teleport Crest • 9x Einhyr Hearthguard • 9x Concussion gauntlet 9x EtaCarn plasma gun 9x Exoarmour grenade launcher

Hekaton Land Fortress (240 points) • 1x Armoured wheels 1x MATR autocannon 1x Panspectral Scanner 1x SP heavy conversion beamer 2x Twin bolt cannon

Hekaton Land Fortress (240 points) • 1x Armoured wheels 1x Heavy magna-rail cannon 1x MATR autocannon 1x Panspectral Scanner 2x Twin bolt cannon

Hekaton Land Fortress (240 points) • 1x Armoured wheels 1x Heavy magna-rail cannon 1x MATR autocannon 1x Panspectral Scanner 2x Twin bolt cannon

Hernkyn Pioneers (80 points) • 3x Hernkyn Pioneer • 3x Bolt revolver 3x Bolt shotgun 1x HYLas rotary cannon 3x Magna-coil autocannon 1x Panspectral Scanner 3x Plasma knife 1x Rollbar Searchlight

Hernkyn Pioneers (80 points) • 3x Hernkyn Pioneer • 3x Bolt revolver 3x Bolt shotgun 1x HYLas rotary cannon 3x Magna-coil autocannon 1x Panspectral Scanner 3x Plasma knife 1x Rollbar Searchlight

Hernkyn Yaegirs (90 points) • 1x Yaegir Theyn • 1x Bolt revolver 1x Close combat weapon 1x Plasma knife • 9x Hernkyn Yaegir • 1x APM launcher 7x Bolt revolver 9x Close combat weapon 1x Magna-coil rifle 7x Plasma knife

Ironkin Steeljacks with Melee Weapons (180 points) • 1x Steeljack Theyn • 1x Autoch-pattern bolter 1x Plasma sword 1x Preymark Crest • 5x Ironkin Steeljack • 5x Autoch-pattern bolter 5x Plasma sword

Exported with App Version: v1.41.0 (98), Data Version: v687

Archetype

All-rounder Needgaard

Thoughts

One of the two current top Votann setups, sporting a bit of everything. Slightly surprised not to see one larger Thunderkyn unit to maximise the value of Ancestral Sentence, but hell maybe three of them just gets whatever you need done anyway, which is quite frightening. Well done to Aaron on the win.

The Best of the Rest

There were 4 more players on 4-1 records. They were:
  • 2nd - Jacob Riedel - Necrons (Canoptek Court): A rare showing for my favourite Canoptek Court, two big Immortal units with buffs, lots of Scarabs to screen, triple Doomstalker and lots of Spiders to double down on crunchy robots.
  • 3rd - Shawn Meacham - Chaos Knights (Infernal Lance): Triple gatling Despoilers.
  • 4th - Michael Moore - Astra Militarum (Combined Arms): Dorn Commanders, Russes, Karkin and a big Cadian unit.
  • 5th - Brian Fenster - Crimson Fists (Gladius Task Force): See Showdown.

Wrap Up

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Tags: Space Marines | tyranids | world eaters | Warhammer 40k | Chaos Knights | Raven Guard | chaos daemons | Crimson Fists | tau | adepta sororitas | Meta Analysis | Competitive Innovations | Leagues of Votann

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