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

Competitive Innovations in 10th: Operation Sufficient Jackals pt.2

by Lowest of Men | Aug 01 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.

More Competitive Innovations, more non-Knight builds, which is lovely to see. Too many Death Guard, but what are you going to do.

Today:
  • The North East Open 2025
  • China Warhammer City Tournament 2025
  • Weekend Wars VII - Major - WCW Qualifier Event
  • North and South GT 2025
  • IRONFORGED I
  • I GT de Santa Brígida
  • Red Dragon 40k GT - July '25 WTC terrain
Wednesday:
  • Palm Springs Open 40k GT IV By Dicehammer
  • BOISE CUP 40k 2025
  • Dark Sphere July GT
  • Liberty Open Road to NOVA 40K Event Hosted by Away Games
  • Welcome Mr. New Iberian Goblin! (Perretes edition)
  • Iron-Claws Wargaming South Mills GT
  • Village Brawl GT
Saturday will cover:
  • [40k] Brave New Hive World - Ropecon Grand Tournament 2025
  • Heart of War Road to NOVA 40K Event with 21st Legion & Away Games
  • Waterdeep GT 4ta Edición
  • Cross-Swords War At The Westward VIII
  • Fleur-De-Lis GT
  • W4 - Western Wisconsin Wargaming Weekend
  • (bonus) Incarnatus
You may have noticed that a bonus event has snuck onto the list for Saturday. While we normally cut off at 26 players, we're always keen to highlight events from smaller scenes around the world, and we've had a write in from a group in Uruguay keen to celebrate a successful GT, which we're very happy to include!

The North East Open 2025

100-player, 5-round Grand Tournament in England, GB on July 26 2025. All the lists for this event can be found in Best Coast Pairings.

The Showdown

Matchup & Mission - Orks (Taktikal Brigade) versus Aeldari (Aspect Host)

Paul Martin - Orks (Taktikal Brigade)
Army List - Click to Expand
Tactical Brigade beast snagga (2000 Points)

Orks Taktikal Brigade Strike Force (2,000 Points)

CHARACTERS

Beastboss (80 Points) • 1x Beast Snagga klaw • 1x Beastchoppa • 1x Shoota

Beastboss (80 Points) • 1x Beast Snagga klaw • 1x Beastchoppa • 1x Shoota

Big Mek in Mega Armour (135 Points) • 1x Grot Oiler • 1x Kustom Force Field • 1x Kustom mega-blasta • 1x Power klaw • Enhancements: Mek Kaptin

Big Mek with Shokk Attack Gun (85 Points) • Warlord • 1x Close combat weapon • 1x Grot Assistant • 1x Shokk attack gun

Big Mek with Shokk Attack Gun (85 Points) • 1x Close combat weapon • 1x Grot Assistant • 1x Shokk attack gun

Mek (55 Points) • 1x Killsaw • 1x Kustom mega-slugga • Enhancements: Gob Boomer

BATTLELINE

Beast Snagga Boyz (95 Points) • 9x Beast Snagga Boy ◦ 9x Choppa ◦ 9x Slugga • 1x Beast Snagga Nob ◦ 1x Power snappa ◦ 1x Slugga

Beast Snagga Boyz (95 Points) • 9x Beast Snagga Boy ◦ 9x Choppa ◦ 9x Slugga • 1x Beast Snagga Nob ◦ 1x Power snappa ◦ 1x Slugga

Boyz (80 Points) • 9x Boy ◦ 9x Choppa ◦ 9x Slugga • 1x Boss Nob ◦ 1x Power klaw ◦ 1x Slugga

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

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

DEDICATED TRANSPORTS

Trukk (70 Points) • 1x Big shoota • 1x Spiked wheels • 1x Wreckin' ball

Trukk (70 Points) • 1x Big shoota • 1x Spiked wheels • 1x Wreckin' ball

OTHER DATASHEETS

Flash Gitz (170 Points) • 1x Kaptin ◦ 1x Choppa ◦ 1x Snazzgun • 9x Flash Git ◦ 9x Choppa ◦ 9x Snazzgun

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

Kill Rig (155 Points) • 1x Butcha boyz • 1x Savage horns and hooves • 1x Saw blades • 1x Stikka kannon • 1x Wurrtower • 1x 'Eavy lobba

Kill Rig (155 Points) • 1x Butcha boyz • 1x Savage horns and hooves • 1x Saw blades • 1x Stikka kannon • 1x Wurrtower • 1x 'Eavy lobba

Lootas (50 Points) • 1x Spanner ◦ 1x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Kustom mega-blasta • 4x Loota ◦ 4x Close combat weapon ◦ 4x Deffgun

Lootas (50 Points) • 1x Spanner ◦ 1x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Kustom mega-blasta • 4x Loota ◦ 4x Close combat weapon ◦ 4x Deffgun

Tankbustas (140 Points) • 1x Boss Nob ◦ 1x Choppa ◦ 1x Rokkit pistol ◦ 1x Smash hammer • 5x Tankbusta ◦ 5x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Pulsa Rokkit ◦ 5x Rokkit launcha

Tankbustas (140 Points) • 1x Boss Nob ◦ 1x Choppa ◦ 1x Rokkit pistol ◦ 1x Smash hammer • 5x Tankbusta ◦ 5x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Pulsa Rokkit ◦ 5x Rokkit launcha

Exported with App Version: v1.35.0 (1), Data Version: v629



vs.

Vik Vijay - Aeldari (Aspect Host)
Army List - Click to Expand
Vik Vijay | 40K Fireside | Team Ignite

Aeldari Aspect Host 2000

CHARACTERS

Autarch Wayleaper (95 Points) • 1x Dragon fusion gun • 1x Star glaive • Enhancements: Strategic Savant

Fuegan (120 Points) • Warlord • 1x Fire Axe • 1x Searsong

Jain Zar (105 Points) • 1x Blade of Destruction • 1x Silent Death

Lhykhis (120 Points) • 1x Brood Twain • 1x Spider's Fangs • 1x Weaverender

Maugan Ra (100 Points) • 1x Maugetar

BATTLELINE

Corsair Voidreavers (60 Points) • 1x Voidreaver Felarch ◦ 1x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Mistshield ◦ 1x Power sword ◦ 1x Shuriken rifle • 4x Corsair Voidreaver ◦ 1x Blaster ◦ 4x Close combat weapon ◦ 3x Power sword ◦ 4x Shuriken pistol

Corsair Voidreavers (60 Points) • 1x Voidreaver Felarch ◦ 1x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Mistshield ◦ 1x Neuro disruptor ◦ 1x Power sword • 4x Corsair Voidreaver ◦ 1x Blaster ◦ 4x Close combat weapon ◦ 3x Power sword ◦ 4x Shuriken pistol

DEDICATED TRANSPORTS

Wave Serpent (125 Points) • 1x Shuriken cannon • 1x Twin bright lance • 1x Wraithbone hull

OTHER DATASHEETS

Dark Reapers (90 Points) • 1x Aspect Shrine Token • 1x Dark Reaper Exarch ◦ 1x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Missile launcher • 4x Dark Reaper ◦ 4x Close combat weapon ◦ 4x Reaper launcher

Falcon (130 Points) • 1x Bright lance • 1x Pulse laser • 1x Shuriken cannon • 1x Wraithbone hull

Fire Dragons (220 Points) • 2x Aspect Shrine Token • 1x Fire Dragon Exarch ◦ 1x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Firepike • 9x Fire Dragon ◦ 9x Close combat weapon ◦ 9x Dragon fusion gun

Howling Banshees (95 Points) • 1x Aspect Shrine Token • 1x Howling Banshee Exarch ◦ 1x Executioner ◦ 1x Shuriken pistol • 4x Howling Banshee ◦ 4x Banshee blade ◦ 4x Shuriken pistol

Rangers (55 Points) • 5x Ranger ◦ 5x Close combat weapon ◦ 5x Long rifle ◦ 5x Shuriken pistol

Swooping Hawks (170 Points) • 2x Aspect Shrine Token • 1x Swooping Hawk Exarch ◦ 1x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Hawk's talon • 9x Swooping Hawk ◦ 9x Close combat weapon ◦ 9x Lasblaster

Swooping Hawks (85 Points) • 1x Aspect Shrine Token • 1x Swooping Hawk Exarch ◦ 1x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Exarch's lasblaster • 4x Swooping Hawk ◦ 4x Close combat weapon ◦ 4x Lasblaster

Swooping Hawks (85 Points) • 1x Aspect Shrine Token • 1x Swooping Hawk Exarch ◦ 1x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Exarch's lasblaster • 4x Swooping Hawk ◦ 4x Close combat weapon ◦ 4x Lasblaster

Warp Spiders (95 Points) • 1x Aspect Shrine Token • 1x Warp Spider Exarch ◦ 1x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Powerblade array • 4x Warp Spider ◦ 4x Close combat weapon ◦ 4x Death spinner

Warp Spiders (95 Points) • 1x Aspect Shrine Token • 1x Warp Spider Exarch ◦ 1x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Death weavers ◦ 1x Spinneret rifle • 4x Warp Spider ◦ 4x Close combat weapon ◦ 4x Death spinner

Warp Spiders (95 Points) • 1x Aspect Shrine Token • 1x Warp Spider Exarch ◦ 1x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Death weavers ◦ 1x Spinneret rifle • 4x Warp Spider ◦ 4x Close combat weapon ◦ 4x Death spinner

Thoughts

Ok, a very intriguing match up here as one of the meta darlings of yore goes up against a rising star. Taktikal Brigade has more or less disappeared from the meta since the last slate, so it's very cool to see it making a final here. Kill Rigs add some heft from which the many shooting units can spill forth - maybe they have enough Rokkits to get through Knights at the moment? It feels peaky, but not impossible. There is a tonne of MSU, and the list can boast a very nasty connect turn if it can get into strong positions.

In the Aeldari camp, Vik takes the Aspect Host killing machine out for a spin. It can pick off and body mechanised armies at will - Kill Rigs feel a bit lost and doomed here as a result. I think the game here is a classic Orks versus elves scenario - the Orks probably need first turn, and they DEFINITELY need to shove the entire army quickly to create failure cases and connect into the key Aeldari damage dealers. If you are tentative, and if the elves get going and start putting out blocks and applying damage, this can run away from you very quickly indeed. As it is, the Aspect Host delivered and absolute evisceration on the day.

Result

Aeldari (Aspect Host) Victory - 98 - 35

Vik Vijay - Aeldari (Aspect Host) - 1st Place

Maugan Ra. Credit: Rockfish Maugan Ra. Credit: Rockfish

The List

Army List - Click to Expand
Vik Vijay | 40K Fireside | Team Ignite

Aeldari Aspect Host 2000

CHARACTERS

Autarch Wayleaper (95 Points) • 1x Dragon fusion gun • 1x Star glaive • Enhancements: Strategic Savant

Fuegan (120 Points) • Warlord • 1x Fire Axe • 1x Searsong

Jain Zar (105 Points) • 1x Blade of Destruction • 1x Silent Death

Lhykhis (120 Points) • 1x Brood Twain • 1x Spider's Fangs • 1x Weaverender

Maugan Ra (100 Points) • 1x Maugetar

BATTLELINE

Corsair Voidreavers (60 Points) • 1x Voidreaver Felarch ◦ 1x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Mistshield ◦ 1x Power sword ◦ 1x Shuriken rifle • 4x Corsair Voidreaver ◦ 1x Blaster ◦ 4x Close combat weapon ◦ 3x Power sword ◦ 4x Shuriken pistol

Corsair Voidreavers (60 Points) • 1x Voidreaver Felarch ◦ 1x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Mistshield ◦ 1x Neuro disruptor ◦ 1x Power sword • 4x Corsair Voidreaver ◦ 1x Blaster ◦ 4x Close combat weapon ◦ 3x Power sword ◦ 4x Shuriken pistol

DEDICATED TRANSPORTS

Wave Serpent (125 Points) • 1x Shuriken cannon • 1x Twin bright lance • 1x Wraithbone hull

OTHER DATASHEETS

Dark Reapers (90 Points) • 1x Aspect Shrine Token • 1x Dark Reaper Exarch ◦ 1x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Missile launcher • 4x Dark Reaper ◦ 4x Close combat weapon ◦ 4x Reaper launcher

Falcon (130 Points) • 1x Bright lance • 1x Pulse laser • 1x Shuriken cannon • 1x Wraithbone hull

Fire Dragons (220 Points) • 2x Aspect Shrine Token • 1x Fire Dragon Exarch ◦ 1x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Firepike • 9x Fire Dragon ◦ 9x Close combat weapon ◦ 9x Dragon fusion gun

Howling Banshees (95 Points) • 1x Aspect Shrine Token • 1x Howling Banshee Exarch ◦ 1x Executioner ◦ 1x Shuriken pistol • 4x Howling Banshee ◦ 4x Banshee blade ◦ 4x Shuriken pistol

Rangers (55 Points) • 5x Ranger ◦ 5x Close combat weapon ◦ 5x Long rifle ◦ 5x Shuriken pistol

Swooping Hawks (170 Points) • 2x Aspect Shrine Token • 1x Swooping Hawk Exarch ◦ 1x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Hawk's talon • 9x Swooping Hawk ◦ 9x Close combat weapon ◦ 9x Lasblaster

Swooping Hawks (85 Points) • 1x Aspect Shrine Token • 1x Swooping Hawk Exarch ◦ 1x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Exarch's lasblaster • 4x Swooping Hawk ◦ 4x Close combat weapon ◦ 4x Lasblaster

Swooping Hawks (85 Points) • 1x Aspect Shrine Token • 1x Swooping Hawk Exarch ◦ 1x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Exarch's lasblaster • 4x Swooping Hawk ◦ 4x Close combat weapon ◦ 4x Lasblaster

Warp Spiders (95 Points) • 1x Aspect Shrine Token • 1x Warp Spider Exarch ◦ 1x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Powerblade array • 4x Warp Spider ◦ 4x Close combat weapon ◦ 4x Death spinner

Warp Spiders (95 Points) • 1x Aspect Shrine Token • 1x Warp Spider Exarch ◦ 1x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Death weavers ◦ 1x Spinneret rifle • 4x Warp Spider ◦ 4x Close combat weapon ◦ 4x Death spinner

Warp Spiders (95 Points) • 1x Aspect Shrine Token • 1x Warp Spider Exarch ◦ 1x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Death weavers ◦ 1x Spinneret rifle • 4x Warp Spider ◦ 4x Close combat weapon ◦ 4x Death spinner

Archetype

Aspect Host Murder Party

Thoughts

A few nice interesting touches in this Aspect Host, which leans into the Fire Dragon / Non-interactivity strat / Lykhis and Hawks combinations we are seeing lining up for WTC en masse. Vik has gone for a Wayleaper with Strategic Savant, which gets you another cheeky high OC unit flying around as well as some free strat access. He plugs into Warp Spiders really nicely but can also run with the Hawks if you want him to. On the go-turns this list simply deletes whatever it looks at, and the play style is incredibly boom and bust. If the opponent can't get teeth into the elves early, they die, and they die hard. Fantastic work on the event win!

Christopher Langton - Chaos Daemons (Daemonic Incursion) - 2nd Place (Undefeated)

Credit: Robert "TheChirurgeon" Jones

The List

Army List - Click to Expand
daemons (1985 points)

Chaos Daemons Strike Force (2000 points) Daemonic Incursion

CHARACTERS

Be'lakor (375 points) • Warlord • 1x Betraying Shades 1x The Blade of Shadows

Great Unclean One (295 points) • 1x Bileblade 1x Bilesword 1x Putrid vomit • Enhancement: The Endless Gift

Kairos Fateweaver (270 points) • 1x Infernal Gateway 1x Staff of Tomorrow

Lord of Change (285 points) • 1x Bolt of Change 1x Staff of Tzeentch • Enhancement: The Everstave

Skarbrand (305 points) • 1x Bellow of endless fury 1x Slaughter and Carnage

BATTLELINE

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

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

OTHER DATASHEETS

Flesh Hounds (75 points) • 1x Gore Hound • 1x Burning roar 1x Collar of Khorne 1x Gore-drenched fangs • 4x Flesh Hound • 4x Collar of Khorne 4x Gore-drenched fangs

Flesh Hounds (75 points) • 1x Gore Hound • 1x Burning roar 1x Collar of Khorne 1x Gore-drenched fangs • 4x Flesh Hound • 4x Collar of Khorne 4x Gore-drenched fangs

Flesh Hounds (75 points) • 1x Gore Hound • 1x Burning roar 1x Collar of Khorne 1x Gore-drenched fangs • 4x Flesh Hound • 4x Collar of Khorne 4x Gore-drenched fangs

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

Exported with App Version: v1.38.0 (90), Data Version: v651

Archetype

Daemonic Big Boi Time

Thoughts

Chris is a coward, and has only brought five Greater Daemons because he likes things like screening and scoring his cards. I have no time for it. The Everstave Lord of Change is a deceptively brutal shooting unit (all the better now Knights are T11), and Kairos helps fuel the many tricks available in Incursion. Big boy Daemons is a very powerful skew that can go toe-to-toe with some of the other skews in the meta too, but a top placing with it is still no easy feat right now- excellent work.

Ratnu Vaidya - Chaos Knights (Infernal Lance) - 3rd Place (Undefeated)

Credit: Norman Greenberg

The List

Army List - Click to Expand
big knight, small brain (1990 points)

Chaos Knights Strike Force (2000 points) Infernal Lance

CHARACTERS

Chaos Cerastus Knight Atrapos (355 points) • 1x Atrapos lascutter 1x Graviton singularity cannon

Knight Despoiler (335 points) • Warlord • 1x Daemonbreath meltagun 2x Despoiler gatling cannon 2x Heavy darkflamer 1x Ruinspear rocket pod 1x Titanic feet

Knight Despoiler (335 points) • 1x Daemonbreath meltagun 2x Despoiler gatling cannon 2x Heavy darkflamer 1x Ruinspear rocket pod 1x Titanic feet

Knight Rampager (335 points) • 1x Diabolus heavy stubber 1x Reaper chainsword 1x Warpstrike claw

OTHER DATASHEETS

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

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

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

Exported with App Version: v1.38.0 (90), Data Version: v651

Archetype

Knights and Daemons

Thoughts

I am very excited for the Black Library series about Chaos Knights and Nurgle Daemons that must SURELY be forthcoming, as the latest incarnation of this malific duo claims another top placing. Beasts of Nurgle are brilliant companions to the big-skew currently on offer, requiring activations opponents often do not have to clear as they try and deal with the onset of the bigger targets. Karnivors give you some trading before the juiced up bigs go to work. An excellent list, well done on the top placing!

Allan Davidson - Death Guard (Mortarion's Hammer) - 4th Place

Plagueburst Crawler Plagueburst Crawler. Credit: Raf Cordero

The List

Army List - Click to Expand
HAMMERTIME (2000 points)

Death Guard Strike Force (2000 points) Mortarion's Hammer

CHARACTERS

Lord of Contagion (110 points) • 1x Manreaper

Lord of Contagion (125 points) • 1x Manreaper • Enhancement: Shriekworm Familiar

Lord of Virulence (110 points) • 1x Power fist 1x Twin plague spewer • Enhancement: Tendrilous Emissions

Tallyman (40 points) • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Plasma pistol

OTHER DATASHEETS

Deathshroud Terminators (140 points) • 1x Deathshroud Champion • 1x Icon of Despair (Aura) 1x Manreaper 2x Plaguespurt gauntlet • 2x Deathshroud Terminator • 2x Manreaper 2x Plaguespurt gauntlet

Deathshroud Terminators (140 points) • 1x Deathshroud Champion • 1x Icon of Despair (Aura) 1x Manreaper 2x Plaguespurt gauntlet • 2x Deathshroud Terminator • 2x Manreaper 2x Plaguespurt gauntlet

Foetid Bloat-Drone with Heavy Blight Launcher (100 points) • 1x Heavy blight launcher 1x Plague probe

Foetid Bloat-Drone with Heavy Blight Launcher (100 points) • 1x Heavy blight launcher 1x Plague probe

Foetid Bloat-Drone with Heavy Blight Launcher (100 points) • 1x Heavy blight launcher 1x Plague probe

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

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

Plagueburst Crawler (195 points) • 1x Armoured tracks 2x Entropy cannon 1x Plagueburst mortar 1x Rothail volley gun

Plagueburst Crawler (195 points) • 1x Armoured tracks 2x Entropy cannon 1x Heavy slugger 1x Plagueburst mortar

Plagueburst Crawler (195 points) • 1x Armoured tracks 2x Entropy cannon 1x Heavy slugger 1x Plagueburst mortar

Poxwalkers (60 points) • 10x Poxwalker • 10x Improvised weapon

Poxwalkers (60 points) • 10x Poxwalker • 10x Improvised weapon

Poxwalkers (60 points) • 10x Poxwalker • 10x Improvised weapon

Exported with App Version: v1.38.0 (90), Data Version: v651

Archetype

Mortarion's Hammer Goodstuff.

Thoughts

Hammer is real good. Shell stuff, drop Deathshroud, make em dead. A well established template that is one of the armies to beat in the current meta game. Fantastic work on the top placing!

The Best of the Rest

There were 15 more players on 4-1 records. They were:
  • 5th - Craig Bedford - Death Guard (Champions of Contagion): Champions DG with lots of Deathshroud and a Plaguemarine brick.
  • 6th - Mark Owen - Space Wolves (Beastslayer): Big bricks of Blood Claws in Beastslayer.
  • 7th - Lewis Archer - Imperial Knights (Noble Lance): IK Triple Atropos.
  • 8th - Matthew Langton - Tyranids (Subterranean Assault): Tunnel bug Nids with Tyrannofex and Raveners and a brick of Hive Guard.
  • 9th - James Smith - Chaos Knights (Infernal Lance): Double Despoiler Infernal Lance with lots of Karnivores in support.
  • 10th - Tom Wright - Astra Militarum (Hammer of the Emperor): Canis acompanies some Rogal Dorns to battle.
  • 11th - Pearce Condren - Dark Angels (Wrath of the Rock): Massed Deathwing Knights in Wrath.
  • 12th - Paul Martin - Orks (Taktikal Brigade): Taktikal with lots of Tankbustas and a Kill Rig.
  • 13th - Scott Morris - Chaos Knights (Infernal Lance): IF with loads of bigs and a pair of Karnivores.
  • 14th - Oliver Campbell - Imperial Knights (Noble Lance): Canis, three mates, some Armigers and Assassins.
  • 15th - Peter Maxwell - Imperial Knights (Noble Lance): Canis, three mates, some Armigers and Assassins.
  • 16th - Niklas Ek - Space Wolves (Stormlance Task Force): Logan Arjac and Ragnar leading a Terminator brick to war.
  • 17th - Ryan McMullan - World Eaters (Berzerker Warband): Double Berzerker brick, MSU Spawn, Forgefiends and a single Maulerfiend.
  • 18th - Adam Elliott - Chaos Space Marines (Pactbound Zealots): OG style Pactbound with Abaddon, loads of tanks, but now VASHTORR IS ALSO THERE!!
  • 19th - Dale Watts - Death Guard (Mortarion's Hammer): Hammer tank spam but with Predators in place of PBCs.

China Warhammer City Tournament 2025

74-player, 5-round Grand Tournament in 深圳市, 中国 on July 26 2025. All the lists for this event can be found in Best Coast Pairings.

Qifan Zhu - Aeldari (Seer Council) - 1st Place

Guardian Defenders. Credit: Rockfish Guardian Defenders. Credit: Rockfish

The List

Army List - Click to Expand
血腥双子 誓为巴哈罗斯复仇 (2000 Points)

Aeldari Seer Council Strike Force (2,000 Points)

CHARACTERS

Asurmen (135 Points) • 1x Bloody Twins • 1x Sword of Asur

Eldrad Ulthran (110 Points) • 1x Mind War • 1x Shuriken pistol • 1x The Staff of Ulthamar and witchblade

Farseer (70 Points) • 1x Eldritch Storm • 1x Shuriken pistol • 1x Singing spear

Fuegan (120 Points) • 1x Fire Axe • 1x Searsong

Jain Zar (105 Points) • 1x Blade of Destruction • 1x Silent Death

Maugan Ra (100 Points) • Warlord • 1x Maugetar

BATTLELINE

Guardian Defenders (100 Points) • 10x Guardian Defender ◦ 10x Close combat weapon ◦ 10x Shuriken catapult • 1x Heavy Weapon Platform ◦ 1x Bright lance ◦ 1x Close combat weapon

Storm Guardians (100 Points) • 10x Storm Guardian ◦ 8x Close combat weapon ◦ 2x Flamer ◦ 2x Fusion gun ◦ 2x Power sword ◦ 6x Shuriken pistol • 1x Serpent's Scale Platform ◦ 1x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Serpent shield

OTHER DATASHEETS

Dark Reapers (90 Points) • 1x Aspect Shrine Token • 1x Dark Reaper Exarch ◦ 1x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Missile launcher • 4x Dark Reaper ◦ 4x Close combat weapon ◦ 4x Reaper launcher

Dire Avengers (80 Points) • 1x Aspect Shrine Token • 1x Dire Avenger Exarch ◦ 2x Avenger shuriken catapult ◦ 1x Close combat weapon • 4x Dire Avenger ◦ 4x Avenger shuriken catapult ◦ 4x Close combat weapon

Falcon (130 Points) • 1x Bright lance • 1x Pulse laser • 1x Shuriken cannon • 1x Wraithbone hull

Fire Dragons (120 Points) • 1x Aspect Shrine Token • 1x Fire Dragon Exarch ◦ 1x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Firepike • 4x Fire Dragon ◦ 4x Close combat weapon ◦ 4x Dragon fusion gun

Howling Banshees (95 Points) • 1x Aspect Shrine Token • 1x Howling Banshee Exarch ◦ 1x Executioner ◦ 1x Shuriken pistol • 4x Howling Banshee ◦ 4x Banshee blade ◦ 4x Shuriken pistol

Rangers (55 Points) • 5x Ranger ◦ 5x Close combat weapon ◦ 5x Long rifle ◦ 5x Shuriken pistol

Shining Spears (110 Points) • 1x Shining Spear Exarch ◦ 1x Shimmershield ◦ 1x Shuriken cannon ◦ 1x Star lance • 2x Shining Spear ◦ 2x Laser lance ◦ 2x Twin shuriken catapult

Shining Spears (110 Points) • 1x Shining Spear Exarch ◦ 1x Shimmershield ◦ 1x Shuriken cannon ◦ 1x Star lance • 2x Shining Spear ◦ 2x Laser lance ◦ 2x Twin shuriken catapult

Swooping Hawks (85 Points) • 1x Aspect Shrine Token • 1x Swooping Hawk Exarch ◦ 1x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Hawk's talon • 4x Swooping Hawk ◦ 4x Close combat weapon ◦ 4x Lasblaster

Swooping Hawks (85 Points) • 1x Aspect Shrine Token • 1x Swooping Hawk Exarch ◦ 1x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Hawk's talon • 4x Swooping Hawk ◦ 4x Close combat weapon ◦ 4x Lasblaster

Warlock Conclave (55 Points) • 2x Warlock ◦ 2x Destructor ◦ 2x Shuriken pistol ◦ 2x Singing Spear

Warlock Conclave (55 Points) • 2x Warlock ◦ 2x Destructor ◦ 2x Shuriken pistol ◦ 2x Singing Spear

Warlock Skyrunners (45 Points) • 1x Destructor • 1x Shuriken pistol • 1x Singing Spear • 1x Twin shuriken catapult

Warlock Skyrunners (45 Points) • 1x Destructor • 1x Shuriken pistol • 1x Singing Spear • 1x Twin shuriken catapult

Exported with App Version: v1.37.0 (1), Data Version: v647

Archetype

Seer Council

Thoughts

Delicious techy elf nonsense here, as Asurman pops in and out of a Falcon and his companions pick off the foe, using the lone op strat to protect themselves as needed. Seer Council has declined in use recently, but remains a phenomenal toolkit piloted well - taking this to an event win requires a very skilled pilot. Really well done on the event win!

Ranchen Li - Thousand Sons (Grand Coven) - 2nd Place (Undefeated)

Credit: Robert "TheChirurgeon" Jones

The List

Army List - Click to Expand
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Player Name: Ranchen Li Team Name: Team China Factions Used: Thousand Sons Army Points: 2000 pts Army Enhancements: Incandaeum (on Exalted Sorcerer on Disc of Tzeentch), Eldritch Vortex of E'Taph (on Infernal Master), Umbralefic Crystal (on Infernal Master) Detachment Rule: Kindred Sorcery ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

CHARACTERS

Daemon Prince of Tzeentch with Wings (170 Points) • 1x Dark Blessing • 1x Hellforged weapons • 1x Infernal cannon

Exalted Sorcerer on Disc of Tzeentch (115 Points) • 1x Arcane Fire • 1x Force weapon • 1x Inferno bolt pistol • 1x Prosperine khopesh • Enhancements: Incandaeum

Infernal Master (110 Points) • 1x Fires of the Abyss • 1x Force weapon • 1x Inferno bolt pistol • Enhancements: Eldritch Vortex of E'Taph

Infernal Master (105 Points) • 1x Fires of the Abyss • 1x Force weapon • 1x Inferno bolt pistol • Enhancements: Umbralefic Crystal

Magnus the Red (420 Points) • Warlord • 1x Blade of Magnus • 1x Gaze of Magnus • 1x Tzeentch's Firestorm

Sorcerer (75 Points) • 1x Force weapon • 1x Inferno bolt pistol • 1x Pandaemonic Delusion • 1x Prosperine khopesh

Tzaangor Shaman (55 Points) • 1x Baleful Devolution • 1x Force stave

BATTLELINE

Rubric Marines (100 Points) • 1x Aspiring Sorcerer ◦ 1x Force weapon ◦ 1x Malefic Curse ◦ 1x Warpflame pistol • 4x Rubric Marine ◦ 4x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Icon of Flame ◦ 1x Soulreaper cannon ◦ 3x Warpflamer

Rubric Marines (100 Points) • 1x Aspiring Sorcerer ◦ 1x Force weapon ◦ 1x Malefic Curse ◦ 1x Warpflame pistol • 4x Rubric Marine ◦ 4x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Icon of Flame ◦ 1x Soulreaper cannon ◦ 3x Warpflamer

Rubric Marines (100 Points) • 1x Aspiring Sorcerer ◦ 1x Force weapon ◦ 1x Malefic Curse ◦ 1x Warpflame pistol • 4x Rubric Marine ◦ 4x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Icon of Flame ◦ 1x Soulreaper cannon ◦ 3x Warpflamer

DEDICATED TRANSPORTS

Chaos Rhino (90 Points) • 1x Armoured tracks • 1x Havoc launcher • 1x Inferno combi-bolter • 1x Inferno combi-bolter

OTHER DATASHEETS

Mutalith Vortex Beast (160 Points) • 1x Betentacled maw • 1x Mutalith claws • 1x Warp vortex

Mutalith Vortex Beast (160 Points) • 1x Betentacled maw • 1x Mutalith claws • 1x Warp vortex

Tzaangor Enlightened with Fatecaster Greatbows (80 Points) • 1x Aviarch ◦ 1x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Fatecaster greatbow • 5x Enlightened ◦ 5x Close combat weapon ◦ 5x Fatecaster greatbow

Tzaangor Enlightened with Fatecaster Greatbows (80 Points) • 1x Aviarch ◦ 1x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Fatecaster greatbow • 5x Enlightened ◦ 5x Close combat weapon ◦ 5x Fatecaster greatbow

Tzaangor Enlightened with Fatecaster Greatbows (80 Points) • 1x Aviarch ◦ 1x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Fatecaster greatbow • 5x Enlightened ◦ 5x Close combat weapon ◦ 5x Fatecaster greatbow

Exported with App Version: v1.36.1 (1), Data Version: v640

Archetype

Grand Coven Goodstuff

Thoughts

Grand Coven goodstuff looks a lot like the index- Maggles the Red causing mayhem, Vortex Beasts drawing out the foe, and a go-turn of Rubrics to table a committed army in seconds as required. Super flexible, super strong, and another one of our current metas big dogs. Fantastic work on the top placing.

jun hong - Adepta Sororitas (Hallowed Martyrs) - 3rd Place (Undefeated)

Sisters of Battle Canoness. Credit: Corrode

The List

Army List - Click to Expand
52号 钧鸿 junhong (2000 points)

Adepta Sororitas Strike Force (2000 points) Hallowed Martyrs

CHARACTERS

Canoness (50 points) • 1x Blessed blade 1x Inferno pistol

Canoness (60 points) • 1x Blessed blade 1x Inferno pistol • Enhancement: Saintly Example

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

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

Saint Celestine (160 points) • 1x Celestine • 1x The Ardent Blade • 2x Geminae Superia • 2x Bolt pistol 2x Power weapon

BATTLELINE

Battle Sisters Squad (105 points) • 1x Sister Superior • 1x Bolt pistol 1x Close combat weapon 1x Ministorum hand flamer 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

OTHER DATASHEETS

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

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

Celestian Sacresants (70 points) • 1x Sacresant Superior • 1x Ministorum hand flamer 1x Spear of the faithful • 4x Celestian Sacresant • 4x Bolt pistol 4x 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

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

ALLIED UNITS

Canis Rex (380 points) • 1x Chainbreaker las-impulsor 1x Chainbreaker multi-laser 1x Freedom's Hand

Exported with App Version: v1.36.1 (87), Data Version: v640

Archetype

Hallowed Martyrs and Canis

Thoughts

I really like what Canis brings to Martyrs- the toolkit is already very effective at blunting and frustrating armies too reliant on a single phase, and Canis gives you some much needed hard target removal for the clap back. Awesome to see a cheeky jump Cannonness leading the charge too - excellent work on the top placing.

david david - Death Guard (Champions of Contagion) - 4th Place

Credit: TheChirurgeon

The List

Army List - Click to Expand
传疫冠军 (2000 Points)

Death Guard Champions of Contagion Strike Force (2,000 Points)

CHARACTERS

Biologus Putrifier (45 Points) • 1x Hyper blight grenades • 1x Injector pistol • 1x Plague knives

Lord of Contagion (110 Points) • Warlord • 1x Manreaper

Lord of Contagion (110 Points) • 1x Manreaper

Lord of Virulence (90 Points) • 1x Power fist • 1x Twin plague spewer

Malignant Plaguecaster (60 Points) • 1x Bolt pistol • 1x Corrupted staff • 1x Plague Wind

Tallyman (40 Points) • 1x Close combat weapon • 1x Plasma pistol

BATTLELINE

Plague Marines (190 Points) • 1x Plague Champion ◦ 1x Plasma gun ◦ 1x Power fist • 9x Plague Marine ◦ 2x Blight launcher ◦ 4x Heavy plague weapon ◦ 2x Meltagun ◦ 9x Plague knives ◦ 1x Plague spewer

DEDICATED TRANSPORTS

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

OTHER DATASHEETS

Deathshroud Terminators (300 Points) • 1x Deathshroud Champion ◦ 1x Icon of Despair (Aura) ◦ 1x Manreaper ◦ 2x Plaguespurt gauntlet • 5x Deathshroud Terminator ◦ 5x Manreaper ◦ 5x Plaguespurt gauntlet

Deathshroud Terminators (140 Points) • 1x Deathshroud Champion ◦ 1x Icon of Despair (Aura) ◦ 1x Manreaper ◦ 2x Plaguespurt gauntlet • 2x Deathshroud Terminator ◦ 2x Manreaper ◦ 2x Plaguespurt gauntlet

Deathshroud Terminators (140 Points) • 1x Deathshroud Champion ◦ 1x Icon of Despair (Aura) ◦ 1x Manreaper ◦ 2x Plaguespurt gauntlet • 2x Deathshroud Terminator ◦ 2x Manreaper ◦ 2x Plaguespurt gauntlet

Foetid Bloat-Drone with Heavy Blight Launcher (100 Points) • 1x Heavy blight launcher • 1x Plague probe

Foetid Bloat-Drone with Heavy Blight Launcher (100 Points) • 1x Heavy blight launcher • 1x Plague probe

Foetid Bloat-Drone with Heavy Blight Launcher (100 Points) • 1x Heavy blight launcher • 1x Plague probe

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

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

Poxwalkers (60 Points) • 10x Poxwalker ◦ 10x Improvised weapon

Poxwalkers (60 Points) • 10x Poxwalker ◦ 10x Improvised weapon

Exported with App Version: v1.37.0 (1), Data Version: v647

Archetype

Champions of Contagion Counter-Mech

Thoughts

Champions is a bit less flexible than Hammer, but absolutely bodies hard targets, where rerolls to hit and wound take Deathshroud and Plague Marines to god-slaying places. Death Guard have so many ways to attack and define the meta at the moment, and it wouldn't surprise me to see this become the leading choice if nerfs should fall upon the mechanised builds in the near future... amazing work!

The Best of the Rest

There were 9 more players on 4-1 records. They were:
  • 5th - Eric Yu - Aeldari (Aspect Host): Alpha strike Aspects with Fuegan, Lykhis, and lots of Swooping Hawks.
  • 6th - Parson Cheung - Thousand Sons (Grand Coven): Magnus stays home as Sorcerors, Rubrics and Vortex Beasts lead the way.
  • 7th - az az - Blood Angels (Liberator Assault Group): Two Predator Annihilators provide back up to a flying circus of melee infantry with big JPI bricks.
  • 8th - Happy Happy - Chaos Knights (Infernal Lance): Brutal triple Despoiler / three other bigs in IF.
  • 9th - yizheng shen - Deathwatch (Black Spear Task Force): Standard style Terminator MSU and Indomitor team DW.
  • 10th - King Wong Yu - Death Guard (Virulent Vectorium): Six Bloat Drones, all the Deathshroud, and brutality via Lords of Contagion in Virulent.
  • 11th - abeicnr abeicnr - Death Guard (Champions of Contagion): Massed Deathshroud, triple Haulers and Drones in Champs.
  • 12th - Johnnie Lau - Thousand Sons (Changehost of Deceit): A very cool Daemons and Tsons list with Kairos, a Chicken, Magnus and lots of flamers in support.
  • 13th - James Sunderland - Adepta Sororitas (Hallowed Martyrs): Triple Cannonness and Castigators, Paragons and MSU.

Weekend Wars VII - Major - WCW Qualifier Event

42-player, 5-round Grand Tournament in Altenholz, SH, Deutschland on July 26 2025. All the lists for this event can be found in Best Coast Pairings.

Manuel "BEL" Wieczorek - Astra Militarum (Bridgehead Strike) - 1st Place

Militarum Tempestus Scions Command Squad. Credit: Rockfish Militarum Tempestus Scions Command Squad. Credit: Rockfish

The List

Army List - Click to Expand
Bridgehead, Masters (2000 Points)

Astra Militarum Bridgehead Strike Strike Force (2.000 Points)

CHARACTERS

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

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 (100 Points) • 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 • 1x Tempestor Prime ◦ 1x Plasma pistol ◦ 1x Tempestus dagger ◦ Enhancements: Shroud Projector

Rogal Dorn Commander (265 Points) • 1x Armoured tracks • 1x Coaxial autocannon • 1x Heavy stubber • 2x Meltagun • 2x Multi-melta • 1x Oppressor cannon • 1x Pulveriser cannon

Ursula Creed (85 Points) • Warlord • 1x Duty and Vengeance • 1x Power weapon

BATTLELINE

Cadian Shock Troops (120 Points) • 2x Shock Trooper Sergeant ◦ 2x Chainsword ◦ 2x Laspistol • 18x Shock Trooper ◦ 18x Close combat weapon ◦ 14x Lasgun ◦ 2x Meltagun ◦ 2x Plasma gun ◦ 2x Vox-caster

Death Korps of Krieg (65 Points) • 1x Death Korps Watchmaster ◦ 1x Plasma pistol ◦ 1x Power weapon • 9x Death Korps Trooper ◦ 9x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Death Korps Medi-pack ◦ 7x Lasgun ◦ 1x Meltagun ◦ 1x Plasma gun ◦ 1x Vox-caster

Death Korps of Krieg (65 Points) • 1x Death Korps Watchmaster ◦ 1x Plasma pistol ◦ 1x Power weapon • 9x Death Korps Trooper ◦ 9x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Death Korps Medi-pack ◦ 7x Lasgun ◦ 1x Meltagun ◦ 1x Plasma gun ◦ 1x Vox-caster

OTHER DATASHEETS

Attilan Rough Riders (60 Points) • 1x Rough Rider Sergeant ◦ 1x Hunting lance ◦ 1x Lasgun ◦ 1x Laspistol ◦ 1x Steed's hooves • 4x Rough Rider ◦ 4x Hunting lance ◦ 4x Lasgun ◦ 4x Laspistol ◦ 4x Steed's hooves

Attilan Rough Riders (60 Points) • 1x Rough Rider Sergeant ◦ 1x Hunting lance ◦ 1x Lasgun ◦ 1x Laspistol ◦ 1x Steed's hooves • 4x Rough Rider ◦ 4x Hunting lance ◦ 4x Lasgun ◦ 4x Laspistol ◦ 4x Steed's hooves

Attilan Rough Riders (60 Points) • 1x Rough Rider Sergeant ◦ 1x Hunting lance ◦ 1x Lasgun ◦ 1x Laspistol ◦ 1x Steed's hooves • 4x Rough Rider ◦ 4x Hunting lance ◦ 4x Lasgun ◦ 4x Laspistol ◦ 4x Steed's hooves

Catachan Heavy Weapons Squad (65 Points) • 3x Heavy Weapons Team ◦ 3x Lasgun ◦ 3x Mortar ◦ 3x Weapons team close combat weapons

Death Riders (60 Points) • 1x Ridemaster ◦ 1x Death Rider lascarbine ◦ 1x Frag lance ◦ 1x Power sabre ◦ 1x Savage claws • 4x Death Rider ◦ 4x Death Rider lascarbine ◦ 4x Frag lance ◦ 4x Power sabre ◦ 4x Savage claws

Ratlings (60 Points) • 5x Ratling Sniper ◦ 5x Close combat weapon ◦ 5x Sniper rifle

Rogal Dorn Battle Tank (240 Points) • 1x Armoured tracks • 1x Castigator gatling cannon • 1x Heavy stubber • 1x Twin battle cannon

Tempestus Scions (140 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

ALLIED UNITS

Canis Rex (380 Points) • 1x Chainbreaker las-impulsor • 1x Chainbreaker multi-laser • 1x Freedom's Hand

Exported with App Version: v1.38.0 (3), Data Version: v651

Archetype

Bridgehead with Canis

Thoughts

A genuinely novel take on Bridgehead, which comes roaring back just when you thought it was dead, with Canis in support. The Bridgehead drop-turns are brutal, and Canis once again provides solidity and reach here alongside the Rogal Dorn. Where normal Guard lists fill their side and grind out the wins, this list can go for the glorious knock-out blows, and I am very much hear for it. Fantastic job on the event win.

The Best of the Rest

There were 7 more players on 4-1 records. They were:
  • 2nd - Sebastian Köhler - Dark Angels (Gladius Task Force): Deathwing Knight spam in Gladius.
  • 3rd - Patrick Schmitt - Tyranids (Invasion Fleet): IF big bugs with a brick of the new Raveners plugged in.
  • 4th - Jan Black - Imperial Knights (Noble Lance): Canis and friends with both a Callidus and Culexus for shenanigans.
  • 5th - Jens Bothur - Tyranids (Subterranean Assault): Glorious double Trygon / triple Screamer Killer mischief in SA.
  • 6th - Björn Grell - Death Guard (Champions of Contagion): Knight slapping melee nonsense with triple Deathshroud and two Plague Marine bricks.
  • 7th - Jan - T'au Empire (Mont'ka): Double Razorshark, triple Breachers and loads of Broadsides in a very cool and innovative take on Mont'ka pressure.
  • 8th - Christopher (C42) Naujoks - World Eaters (Berzerker Warband): Angron, double Slaughterbound Eightbound, and combat MSU with Forgefiends.

North and South GT 2025

37-player, 5-round Grand Tournament in Hobart, TAS, AU on July 25 2025. All the lists for this event can be found in Best Coast Pairings.

Liam Grossmith - Death Guard (Virulent Vectorium) - 1st Place

Credit: Robert "TheChirurgeon" Jones

The List

Army List - Click to Expand
Playing Champions of Contagion and Virulent Vectorium is easy mode! I like a challenge (1995 Points)

Death Guard Death Lord's Chosen Strike Force (2,000 Points)

CHARACTERS

Lord of Contagion (140 Points) • 1x Manreaper • Enhancements: Warprot Talisman

Lord of Contagion (125 Points) • 1x Manreaper • Enhancements: Vile Vigour

Lord of Virulence (90 Points) • 1x Power fist • 1x Twin plague spewer

Tallyman (40 Points) • Warlord • 1x Close combat weapon • 1x Plasma pistol

Typhus (90 Points) • 1x Lakrimae

OTHER DATASHEETS

Deathshroud Terminators (300 Points) • 1x Deathshroud Champion ◦ 1x Icon of Despair (Aura) ◦ 1x Manreaper ◦ 2x Plaguespurt gauntlet • 5x Deathshroud Terminator ◦ 5x Manreaper ◦ 5x Plaguespurt gauntlet

Deathshroud Terminators (140 Points) • 1x Deathshroud Champion ◦ 1x Icon of Despair (Aura) ◦ 1x Manreaper ◦ 2x Plaguespurt gauntlet • 2x Deathshroud Terminator ◦ 2x Manreaper ◦ 2x Plaguespurt gauntlet

Deathshroud Terminators (140 Points) • 1x Deathshroud Champion ◦ 1x Icon of Despair (Aura) ◦ 1x Manreaper ◦ 2x Plaguespurt gauntlet • 2x Deathshroud Terminator ◦ 2x Manreaper ◦ 2x Plaguespurt gauntlet

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

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

Foetid Bloat-Drone with Heavy Blight Launcher (100 Points) • 1x Heavy blight launcher • 1x Plague probe

Foetid Bloat-Drone with Heavy Blight Launcher (100 Points) • 1x Heavy blight launcher • 1x Plague probe

Foetid Bloat-Drone with Heavy Blight Launcher (100 Points) • 1x Heavy blight launcher • 1x Plague probe

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

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

Poxwalkers (60 Points) • 10x Poxwalker ◦ 10x Improvised weapon

Poxwalkers (60 Points) • 10x Poxwalker ◦ 10x Improvised weapon

Poxwalkers (60 Points) • 10x Poxwalker ◦ 10x Improvised weapon

Exported with App Version: v1.38.0 (3), Data Version: v651

Archetype

Virulent Vectorium

Thoughts

Massed bodies with -1 damage and Contagion gets the job done. Triple Deathshroud and Typhus harks back to a simpler time, when Death Guard had merely one top tier build. We may be playing balance whackamole for some time, and in the meantime, it's a very good time to be Mortarion's sons. Fantastic work on the event win!

The Best of the Rest

There were 5 more players on 4-1 records. They were:
  • 2nd - Tyler Walsh - Necrons (Awakened Dynasty): Warrior and Wraith brick Awakened with Szeras in tow.
  • 3rd - James Stewart - Death Guard (Champions of Contagion): Deathshroud / Plague Marine wrecking balls.
  • 4th - Ethan Armstrong - Blood Angels (Angelic Inheritors): Desolation Marines, some Ballistus and Vindicators, and 3 MSU Sang Guard squads.
  • 5th - Liam Hogwood - Chaos Daemons (Shadow Legion): Belly and the Thirster bring a cheeky Despoiler along for the ride.
  • 6th - James Hancock - Orks (War Horde): Ghaz leads the charge with a Kill Rig, some Tankbustas and a big brick of Nobz alongside the Boyz.

IRONFORGED I

32-player, 5-round Grand Tournament in Västerbottens län, Sverige on July 26 2025. All the lists for this event can be found in Best Coast Pairings.

Tim Nordin - Dark Angels (Stormlance Task Force) - 1st Place

On nuclear-powered motorbikes, the enemies of Unst will burn Ravenwing Outriders. Credit: Kevin Stillman

The List

Army List - Click to Expand
Wings of Purpouse - Dark Angels - Stormlance Task Force (2000 Points)

Azrael: The Sword of Secrets, Lion's Wrath (115 pts) Lion El'Jonson: Fealty, Arma Luminis, Warlord (315 pts)

Lieutenant with Combi-weapon: Paired Combat Blades, Combi-weapon (70 pts) Ravenwing Command Squad: Ravenwing Champion, E: Hunter's Instincts, Ravenwing Apothecary, Ravenwing Ancient (145 pts) Ravenwing Command Squad: Ravenwing Champion, E: Feinting Withdrawal, Ravenwing Apothecary, Ravenwing Ancient (130 pts) Ravenwing Command Squad: Ravenwing Champion, Ravenwing Apothecary, Ravenwing Ancient (120 pts)

Intercessor Squad: Intercessor Sergeant, 4x Intercessor (80 pts)

Scout Squad: Scout Sergeant, Scout w/ Scout Sniper Rifle, Scout w/ Heavy Weapon, 2x Scouts w/ Boltgun (70 pts)

Invader ATV: Close Combat Weapon, Bolt Pistol, Twin Bolt Rifle, Multi-melta (60 pts) 3x Outrider Squad: Outrider Sergeant, 2x Outrider (240 pts) 3x Ravenwing Black Knights: Ravenwing Huntmaster, 5x Ravenwing Black Knight (540 pts)

Ravenwing Darkshroud: Close Combat Weapon, Heavy bolter (115 pts)

Archetype

Storm Lance Ravenwing

Thoughts

A very unusual and punchy Ravenwing build which goes fast and shoots people. Black Knights in large numbers are fragile but deadly, and getting the connect turn right here will be key to victory. Great to see the Lion running about here too, with his new rules giving you a real nuisance piece to compliment the other forces. Excellent work on the event win!

The Best of the Rest

There were 3 more players on 4-1 records. They were:
  • 2nd - Mattias Lindvall-Östling - Thousand Sons (Grand Coven): Classic Coven with Magnus, Rubrics and Wizards, and a solitary MVB.
  • 3rd - Rickard Wallin - Adeptus Mechanicus (Haloscreed Battle Clade): Cawl leading lots of Ruststalkers and some Disintegrators.
  • 4th - Marcus Jonsson - Blood Angels (Liberator Assault Group): Double Lancer / Ballistus support base behind a Death Company brick and MSU.

I GT de Santa Brígida

31-player, 5-round Grand Tournament in Santa Brígida, CN, España on July 25 2025. All the lists for this event can be found in Best Coast Pairings.

Jacinto López - Aeldari (Aspect Host) - 1st Place

Credit: Corrode

The List

Army List - Click to Expand
-HDiAkh (2000 points)

Aeldari Strike Force (2000 points) Aspect Host

CHARACTERS

Fuegan (120 points) • Warlord • 1x Fire Axe 1x Searsong

Jain Zar (105 points) • 1x Blade of Destruction 1x Silent Death

Lhykhis (120 points) • 1x Brood Twain 1x Spider's Fangs 1x Weaverender

BATTLELINE

Corsair Voidreavers (60 points) • 1x Voidreaver Felarch • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Mistshield 1x Neuro disruptor 1x Power sword • 4x Corsair Voidreaver • 1x Blaster 4x Close combat weapon 3x Power sword 4x Shuriken pistol

Corsair Voidreavers (60 points) • 1x Voidreaver Felarch • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Mistshield 1x Neuro disruptor 1x Power sword • 4x Corsair Voidreaver • 1x Blaster 4x Close combat weapon 3x Power sword 4x Shuriken pistol

Corsair Voidreavers (60 points) • 1x Voidreaver Felarch • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Mistshield 1x Neuro disruptor 1x Power sword • 4x Corsair Voidreaver • 1x Blaster 4x Close combat weapon 3x Power sword 4x Shuriken pistol

Storm Guardians (100 points) • 10x Storm Guardian • 8x Close combat weapon 2x Flamer 2x Fusion gun 2x Power sword 6x Shuriken pistol • 1x Serpent's Scale Platform • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Serpent shield

DEDICATED TRANSPORTS

Wave Serpent (125 points) • 1x Twin shuriken cannon 1x Twin shuriken catapult 1x Wraithbone hull

OTHER DATASHEETS

Dark Reapers (90 points) • 1x Aspect Shrine Token • 1x Dark Reaper Exarch • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Tempest launcher • 4x Dark Reaper • 4x Close combat weapon 4x Reaper launcher

Dark Reapers (90 points) • 1x Aspect Shrine Token • 1x Dark Reaper Exarch • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Tempest launcher • 4x Dark Reaper • 4x Close combat weapon 4x Reaper launcher

Fire Dragons (220 points) • 2x Aspect Shrine Token • 1x Fire Dragon Exarch • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Firepike • 9x Fire Dragon • 9x Close combat weapon 9x Dragon fusion gun

Howling Banshees (95 points) • 1x Aspect Shrine Token • 1x Howling Banshee Exarch • 1x Executioner 1x Shuriken pistol • 4x Howling Banshee • 4x Banshee blade 4x Shuriken pistol

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

Swooping Hawks (170 points) • 2x Aspect Shrine Token • 1x Swooping Hawk Exarch • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Hawk's talon • 9x Swooping Hawk • 9x Close combat weapon 9x Lasblaster

Swooping Hawks (170 points) • 2x Aspect Shrine Token • 1x Swooping Hawk Exarch • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Hawk's talon • 9x Swooping Hawk • 9x Close combat weapon 9x Lasblaster

Swooping Hawks (170 points) • 2x Aspect Shrine Token • 1x Swooping Hawk Exarch • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Hawk's talon • 9x Swooping Hawk • 9x Close combat weapon 9x Lasblaster

Warp Spiders (95 points) • 1x Aspect Shrine Token • 1x Warp Spider Exarch • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Powerblade array • 4x Warp Spider • 4x Close combat weapon 4x Death spinner

Warp Spiders (95 points) • 1x Aspect Shrine Token • 1x Warp Spider Exarch • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Death weavers 1x Spinneret rifle • 4x Warp Spider • 4x Close combat weapon 4x Death spinner

Exported with App Version: v1.37.0 (88), Data Version: v647

Archetype

30 Hawk Aspect Host

Thoughts

A WTC menace unleashed on the wider meta game, the 30 Hawks / Fuegan / Corsairs list is the real deal. Corsairs give you much needed OC, Fuegan steadily tables any mechanised list he looks at, and the Hawks give you blocking and a truckload of mortals for killing whatever the orange son of the end times is too busy to handle. Played well, this is among the best lists in the game right now. Excellent stuff.

The Best of the Rest

There were 4 more players on 4-1 records. They were:
  • 2nd - Nelson WiRm - Death Guard (Mortarion's Hammer): A Depoiler and a PBC provide the backline for triple Deathshroud / Drone centred Hammer.
  • 3rd - Marcos Sokram Mejias - Black Templars (Righteous Crusaders): Redeemer Crusaders with some Sword bros and Helbrecht.
  • 4th - Abraham Sanchez - Tyranids (Subterranean Assault): Tyrannofex and Screamer Killers provide some heft as Raveners do mischief.
  • 5th - Tanausu Rodríguez - Adeptus Mechanicus (Haloscreed Battle Clade): Canis teams up with some las Chickens and Kastelan Robots.

Red Dragon 40k GT - July '25 WTC terrain

26-player, 5-round Grand Tournament in Ottawa, ON, CA on July 26 2025. All the lists for this event can be found in Best Coast Pairings.

John Winter Russell - Astra Militarum (Combined Regiment) - 1st Place

Kasrkin Kill Team. Credit: Jack Hunter

The List

Army List - Click to Expand
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Player Name: John Winter Russell Team Name: Canada Factions Used: Astra Militarum Army Points: 2000 Army Enhancements: Grand Strategist on Rogal Dorn Commander Detachment Rule: Born Soldiers ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

WTC 🥳🥳 (2000 Points)

Astra Militarum Combined Arms Strike Force (2,000 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 ◦ 1x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Lasgun ◦ 1x Master Vox • 1x Cadian Veteran Guardsman ◦ 1x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Lasgun ◦ 1x Medi-pack • 1x Cadian Veteran Guardsman ◦ 1x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Lasgun ◦ 1x Regimental Standard

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 (85 Points) • 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 • 1x Tempestor Prime ◦ 1x Command Rod ◦ 1x Tempestus dagger

Militarum Tempestus Command Squad (85 Points) • 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 • 1x Tempestor Prime ◦ 1x Plasma pistol ◦ 1x Tempestus dagger

Rogal Dorn Commander (280 Points) • 1x Armoured tracks • 1x Coaxial autocannon • 1x Heavy stubber • 2x Meltagun • 2x Multi-melta • 1x Oppressor cannon • 1x Pulveriser cannon • Enhancements: Grand Strategist

Ursula Creed (85 Points) • Warlord • 1x Duty and Vengeance • 1x Power weapon

BATTLELINE

Cadian Shock Troops (65 Points) • 1x Shock Trooper Sergeant ◦ 1x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Sergeant's autogun • 9x Shock Trooper ◦ 9x Close combat weapon ◦ 7x Lasgun ◦ 1x Meltagun ◦ 1x Plasma gun ◦ 1x Vox-caster

Cadian Shock Troops (65 Points) • 1x Shock Trooper Sergeant ◦ 1x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Sergeant's autogun • 9x Shock Trooper ◦ 9x Close combat weapon ◦ 7x Lasgun ◦ 1x Meltagun ◦ 1x Plasma gun ◦ 1x Vox-caster

DEDICATED TRANSPORTS

Taurox (75 Points) • 1x Armoured tracks • 1x Storm bolter • 1x Twin autocannon

Taurox (75 Points) • 1x Armoured tracks • 1x Storm bolter • 1x Twin autocannon

OTHER DATASHEETS

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

Hellhound (125 Points) • 1x Armoured tracks • 1x Multi-melta • 1x Hunter-killer missile • 1x Inferno cannon

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

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

Leman Russ Battle Tank (185 Points) • 1x Armoured tracks • 1x Heavy stubber • 1x Hunter-killer missile • 1x Lascannon • 1x Leman Russ battle cannon • 2x Multi-melta

Scout Sentinels (55 Points) • 1x Close combat weapon • 1x Hunter-killer missile • 1x Lascannon • 1x Sentinel chainsaw

Scout Sentinels (55 Points) • 1x Close combat weapon • 1x Hunter-killer missile • 1x Lascannon • 1x Sentinel chainsaw

Tempestus Scions (70 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 (70 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

Archetype

Guard Combined Arms

Thoughts

Old-school Combined Arms from one of the Factions true greats, who takes the Combined Arms brief very seriously by plugging in a brick of Rough Riders for counter-charge alongside Tempestus reserves strikes. Guard are still plugging despite nerfs and new challengers, and remain one of the armies to beat in the right hands. Very well done on the first place finish!

The Best of the Rest

There were 2 more players on 4-1 records. They were:
  • 2nd - Thomas Cowan - Aeldari (Warhost): Punchy Warhost with 15 Fire Dragons, double Autarch Banshees and lots of scoring MSU.
  • 3rd - François Lalonde - Chaos Knights (Lords of Dread): Triple Lancers, double Abominant, and a cohort of Chaos Daemons including a Sloppity Bilepiper!

Wrap Up

There we are folks - the WTC meta is on full display now as skews and their counters start getting their teeth into the meta game. Knights and Death Guard are insufferably dominant, but armies like Eldar and Guard are demonstrating that they can punish stat checks and add some complications on the way to the top. I am very intrigued to see how things are shaken up when needed changes arrive!

Have fun out there.

Lowest of Men, out!

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Tags: Space Marines | Death Guard | Warhammer 40k | Aeldari | Thousand Sons | Chaos Knights | Dark Angels | chaos daemons | Orks | Astra Militarum | adepta sororitas | Meta Analysis | Competitive Innovations

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