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

Competitive Innovations in 10th: The Night Before Grotmas pt.2

by Lowest of Men | Dec 12 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.

It's Lowest of Men in the drivers seat today, as we cover off more results and ponder how the Dataslate might change them.

Part 2 on Friday:
  • Feliz Exterminatus IV
  • Wytch Trials 2025 Ascension
  • Winter Warlords 2025 hosted by RWGC
  • December Grand Tournament at GG presented by Warhound Tournaments
  • Legion GT
  • Shanghai 40K GT Dec 2025
  • DicePodGT
Part 3 on Saturday:
  • Everwinter Warhammer 40K GT
  • Leoben Winter Sprint 40K Singles 2025 - Alpine Cup
  • Bristol Crusaders GT
  • 112. Bedburger Scheunenkloppen
  • Hole in the Wall Hobbies December Iron Man GT
  • Winter War Zone 2025 40K GT
  • (new) Primer GT APEWAR
Part 1 on Wednesday:
  • THE LEICESTER 40K SUPER MAJOR
  • Merry Slaaneshmass 2025
  • Iron Cage: Winter Whammy
  • FIGHT BEFORE XMAS 25
  • The Vault Reforged: Anniversary Grand Tournament
  • FA CUP 2025 Warhammer 40,000 Grand Tournament - Winter 2025
  • Bulwark Events x CGC GT: Victors 50th Crusade!

Feliz Exterminatus IV

98-player, 6-round Grand Tournament in Saint Robert, MO, United States on December 06 2025. All the lists for this event can be found in Best Coast Pairings.

Ryan Verbeck - Tyranids (Subterranean Assault) - 1st Place

Ravener Prime Ravener Prime Credit: NotThatHenryC

The List

Army List - Click to Expand
Raveners, Ravaging Through the Snow (2000 points)

Tyranids Strike Force (2000 points) Subterranean Assault

CHARACTERS

Hyperadapted Raveners (165 points) • 1x Ravener Prime • 1x Prime claws and talons • 4x Raveners • 4x Ravener heavy claws and talons 1x Venom bolt

Hyperadapted Raveners (165 points) • 1x Ravener Prime • 1x Prime claws and talons • 4x Raveners • 4x Ravener heavy claws and talons 1x Venom bolt

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

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

BATTLELINE

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

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

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

OTHER DATASHEETS

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

Neurogaunts (90 points) • 2x Neurogaunt Nodebeast • 2x Chitinous claws and teeth • 20x Neurogaunt • 20x Chitinous claws and teeth

Neurolictor (70 points) • 1x Piercing claws and talons

Neurolictor (70 points) • 1x Piercing claws and talons

Neurolictor (70 points) • 1x Piercing claws and talons

Pyrovores (40 points) • 1x Chitin-barbed limbs 1x Flamespurt

Pyrovores (40 points) • 1x Chitin-barbed limbs 1x Flamespurt

Pyrovores (40 points) • 1x Chitin-barbed limbs 1x Flamespurt

Raveners (125 points) • 5x Ravener • 5x Ravener claws and talons

Raveners (125 points) • 5x Ravener • 5x Ravener claws and talons

Raveners (125 points) • 5x Ravener • 5x Ravener claws and talons

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

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

Exported with App Version: v1.44.0 (104), Data Version: v715

Archetype

Double Zoan Sub Assault

Thoughts

Tyranids keep on plugging away, and this list innovates a little on the brutal double Zoan brick lists we saw in Sub Assault at WCW and after. I like the big slab of Neurogants - look how stupidly cheap that unit is for the bodies you get!! There are so many stupid ways to use a brick of idiots that cheap, and I am here for it. Raveners and Zoans do the heavy lifting and I am particularly struck by the triple Neurolictor - this list is really, really hoping to get a bunch of battle shocks going to shut down surges, defensive buffs and the like, at which point the Zoans will make hay. Excellent innovation, well done on the event win.

Nathan Blankenship - Orks (War Horde) - 2nd Place

Deathskulls Big Mek. Credit: Corrode

The List

Army List - Click to Expand
Feliz! (1995 Points)

Orks War Horde Strike Force (2,000 Points)

CHARACTERS

Big Mek (95 Points) • 1x Drilla • 1x Kustom mega-blasta • Enhancements: Follow Me Ladz

Boss Snikrot (75 Points) • 1x Mork's Teeth • 1x Slugga

Ghazghkull Thraka (235 Points) • 1x Ghazghkull Thraka • Warlord ◦ 1x Gork's Klaw ◦ 1x Mork's Roar • 1x Makari ◦ 1x Makari's stabba

Warboss (75 Points) • 1x Attack squig • 1x Kombi-weapon • 1x Power klaw • 1x Twin sluggas

BATTLELINE

Boyz (170 Points) • 19x Boy ◦ 19x Choppa ◦ 19x Slugga • 1x Boss Nob ◦ 1x Power klaw ◦ 1x Slugga

DEDICATED TRANSPORTS

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

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

OTHER DATASHEETS

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

Breaka Boyz (140 Points) • 1x Boss Nob ◦ 1x Choppa ◦ 1x Rokkit pistol ◦ 1x Smash hammer • 5x Breaka Boy ◦ 4x Smash hammer ◦ 1x Tankhammer

Breaka Boyz (140 Points) • 1x Boss Nob ◦ 1x Choppa ◦ 1x Rokkit pistol ◦ 1x Smash hammer • 5x Breaka Boy ◦ 4x Smash hammer ◦ 1x Tankhammer

Flash Gitz (160 Points) • 1x Ammo Runt • 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

Kommandos (120 Points) • 1x Bomb Squig • 1x Distraction Grot • 9x Kommando ◦ 1x Breacha ram ◦ 1x Burna ◦ 7x Choppa ◦ 1x Close combat weapon ◦ 7x Slugga • 1x Boss Nob ◦ 1x Power klaw ◦ 1x Slugga

Nobz (210 Points) • 1x Ammo Runt • 1x Boss Nob ◦ 1x Power klaw ◦ 1x Slugga • 9x Nob ◦ 9x Power klaw ◦ 9x 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

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

Exported with App Version: v1.44.0 (2), Data Version: v715

Archetype

Classic War Horde

Thoughts

Tried, tested, and true. War Horde is here for a scrap, with explosive speed and damage in the Waagh, full fight on death for the melee games, and the Ghaz brick with -1 to wound to ruin lives at a key moment. There isn't a tonne else to say - Orks have landed in a balanced but potent spot and seem to be doing just fine in the meta. I'll be interested to see how things go for them post slate! Amazing work.

Treynor Wolfe - Ultramarines (Blade of Ultramar) - 3rd Place

Victrix Guard Chapter Ancient Credit: Keewa

The List

Army List - Click to Expand
gw made a math booboo with Victrix guard (2000 points)

Space Marines Ultramarines Strike Force (2000 points) Blade of Ultramar

CHARACTERS

Captain (95 points) • 1x Plasma pistol 1x Power fist • Enhancement: Oath of Macragge

Captain in Gravis Armour (90 points) • 1x Boltstorm gauntlet 1x Power fist 1x Relic blade • Enhancement: Armour of Antoninus

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

Marneus Calgar (200 points) • 1x Marneus Calgar • Warlord • 1x Gauntlets of Ultramar • 2x Victrix Honour Guard • 2x Victrix power sword

Uriel Ventris (95 points) • 1x Bolt Pistol 1x Invictus 1x Sword of Idaeus

BATTLELINE

Intercessor Squad (80 points) • 1x Intercessor Sergeant • 1x Bolt pistol 1x Plasma pistol 1x Power fist • 4x Intercessor • 4x Bolt pistol 4x Bolt rifle 4x Close combat weapon

OTHER DATASHEETS

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

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

Repulsor Executioner (220 points) • 1x Armoured hull 1x Heavy laser destroyer 1x Heavy onslaught gatling cannon 1x Icarus rocket pod 1x Ironhail heavy stubber 1x Repulsor Executioner defensive array 1x Twin Icarus ironhail heavy stubber 1x Twin heavy bolter

Repulsor Executioner (220 points) • 1x Armoured hull 1x Heavy laser destroyer 1x Heavy onslaught gatling cannon 1x Icarus rocket pod 1x Ironhail heavy stubber 1x Repulsor Executioner defensive array 1x Twin Icarus ironhail heavy stubber 1x Twin heavy bolter

Sternguard Veteran Squad (100 points) • 1x Sternguard Veteran Sergeant • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Power fist 1x Sternguard bolt pistol 1x Sternguard bolt rifle • 4x Sternguard Veteran • 4x Close combat weapon 4x Sternguard bolt pistol 3x Sternguard bolt rifle 1x Sternguard heavy bolter

Storm Speeder Hammerstrike (125 points) • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Hammerstrike missile launcher 2x Krakstorm grenade launcher 1x Melta destroyer

Storm Speeder Hammerstrike (125 points) • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Hammerstrike missile launcher 2x Krakstorm grenade launcher 1x Melta destroyer

Victrix Honour Guard (210 points) • 1x Chapter Ancient • 1x Banner of Macragge 1x Master-crafted power weapon • 1x Chapter Champion • 1x Blades of honour • 4x Victrix Honour Guard • 4x Master-crafted bolt carbine 4x Master-crafted power weapon

Victrix Honour Guard (210 points) • 6x Victrix Honour Guard • 6x Master-crafted bolt carbine 6x Master-crafted power weapon

Exported with App Version: v1.44.0 (104), Data Version: v715

Archetype

Blade of Ultramar Mixed Arms

Thoughts

I think the key to exploiting Blade of Ultramar is having a build which can really, really benefit from the double doctrine options. Here, because you have both a Victrix push threat AND a wall of speeders and guns, you have options depending on what the opponent asks of you and what is needed. Exceptionally powerful right now, expect Ultramarines to keep on rolling! Great work on the top placing.

Dan Sammons - Adeptus Mechanicus (Skitarii Hunter Cohort) - 4th Place

Adeptus Mechanicus - Sicarian Infiltrators Adeptus Mechanicus - Sicarian Infiltrators
Credit: Pendulin

The List

Army List - Click to Expand
Butt Stuff (1990 points)

Adeptus Mechanicus Strike Force (2000 points) Skitarii Hunter Cohort

CHARACTERS

Belisarius Cawl (175 points) • Warlord • 1x Arc scourge 1x Cawl's Omnissian axe 1x Mechadendrite hive 1x Solar atomiser

Skitarii Marshal (60 points) • 1x Control stave 1x Mechanicus pistol • Enhancement: Cantic Thrallnet

BATTLELINE

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

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

OTHER DATASHEETS

Ironstrider Ballistarii (225 points) • 3x Ironstrider Ballistarii • 3x Ironstrider feet 3x Twin cognis lascannon

Ironstrider Ballistarii (225 points) • 3x Ironstrider Ballistarii • 3x Ironstrider feet 3x Twin cognis lascannon

Ironstrider Ballistarii (225 points) • 3x Ironstrider Ballistarii • 3x Ironstrider feet 3x Twin cognis autocannon

Pteraxii Skystalkers (140 points) • 1x Pteraxii Skystalker Alpha • 1x Flechette blaster 1x Taser goad • 9x Pteraxii Skystalker • 9x Close combat weapon 9x Flechette carbine

Pteraxii Skystalkers (70 points) • 1x Pteraxii Skystalker Alpha • 1x Flechette blaster 1x Taser goad • 4x Pteraxii Skystalker • 4x Close combat weapon 4x Flechette carbine

Pteraxii Skystalkers (70 points) • 1x Pteraxii Skystalker Alpha • 1x Flechette blaster 1x Taser goad • 4x Pteraxii Skystalker • 4x Close combat weapon 4x Flechette carbine

Pteraxii Sterylizors (160 points) • 1x Pteraxii Sterylizor Alpha • 1x Flechette blaster 1x Pteraxii talons 1x Taser goad • 9x Pteraxii Sterylizor • 9x Phosphor torch 9x Pteraxii talons

Serberys Raiders (60 points) • 1x Serberys Raider Alpha • 1x Cavalry sabre and clawed limbs 1x Galvanic carbine 1x Mechanicus pistol • 2x Serberys Raider • 2x Cavalry sabre and clawed limbs 1x Enhanced data-tether 2x Galvanic carbine

Serberys Raiders (60 points) • 1x Serberys Raider Alpha • 1x Cavalry sabre and clawed limbs 1x Galvanic carbine 1x Mechanicus pistol • 2x Serberys Raider • 2x Cavalry sabre and clawed limbs 1x Enhanced data-tether 2x Galvanic carbine

Sicarian Infiltrators (140 points) • 1x Sicarian Infiltrator Princeps • 1x Flechette blaster 1x Taser goad • 9x Sicarian Infiltrator • 9x Flechette blaster 9x Taser goad

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

Sicarian Infiltrators (140 points) • 1x Sicarian Infiltrator Princeps • 1x Flechette blaster 1x Taser goad • 9x Sicarian Infiltrator • 9x Flechette blaster 9x Taser goad

Exported with App Version: v1.44.0 (104), Data Version: v715

Archetype

Siegler Style Hunter Cohort

Thoughts

Wall of bodies Hunter Cohort has been unleashed since WCW, with the 'maxed out chickens, lads on foot and gumption' combination doing work. Still the grindiest and most attritional way to play Ad Mech, it ruins armies without ways to surpass the modifiers at range, and boasts a phenomenal mission toolkit. Great work on the top placing.

The Best of the Rest

There were 7 more players on 5-1 records. They were:
  • 5th - Jake Durham - Space Wolves (Stormlance Task Force): Go fast Space Wolves with lots of Terminators and Headtakers.
  • 6th - Kyle McCord - Dark Angels (Wrath of the Rock): Brutal mixed arms DA with the Lion, DWK, some Speeders and some Centurions.
  • 7th - Harout Baltayan - Death Guard (Virulent Vectorium): Morty / Mini Morty Virulent.
  • 8th - Chris Green - Blood Angels (Liberator Assault Group): Dante leads MSU Death Company squads with Captains and a Land Raider Redeemer to war.
  • 9th - Connor Johnson - Thousand Sons (Grand Coven): Triple MWB, triple Tzaangor Grand Coven with the Vortex Daemon Prince.
  • 10th - Peyton Preece - Adeptus Mechanicus (Haloscreed Battle Clade): Brutal all-in Infiltrator and Ruststalker Haloscreed.
  • 11th - Brent Aubuchon - Adepta Sororitas (Army of Faith): Lesser-seen Army of Faith Sisters, with Sacrosanct bricks, and two units of Paragons.

Wytch Trials 2025 Ascension

67-player, 5-round Grand Tournament in Clemmons, NC, United States on December 06 2025. All the lists for this event can be found in Best Coast Pairings.

Seth Piper - World Eaters (Berzerker Warband) - 1st Place

Credit: Robert "TheChirurgeon" Jones

The List

Army List - Click to Expand
Rip and Tear (1990 Points)

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

CHARACTERS

Angron (360 Points) • Warlord • 1x Samni'arius and Spinegrinder

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

Slaughterbound (110 Points) • 1x Lacerator and daemonic claw • Enhancements: Berzerker Glaive

BATTLELINE

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

DEDICATED TRANSPORTS

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

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

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

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

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

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: v1.44.0 (2), Data Version: v715

Archetype

World Eaters Mixed Arms

Thoughts

Angron gets the nod here in a mixed arms WE list that takes a smattering of all the stand outs from the past year or so. The big lad gives you a wrecking ball that can trouble even the most durable skews, though delivering him requires some finesse. MSU Eightbound and Spawn give you plenty of mini missiles for the pressure game. The meta has become a lot more hostile to World Eaters in recent times, so a GT win deserves credit. Excellent work!

Eric Hoerger - Genestealer Cult (Outlander Claw) - 2nd Place (Undefeated)

Kelermorph. Credit: Rockfish Kelermorph. Credit: Rockfish

The List

Army List - Click to Expand
GSC Outlander Claw—Eric Hoerger (2000 Points)

Genestealer Cults Outlander Claw Strike Force (2,000 Points)

CHARACTERS

Kelermorph (60 Points) • 1x Close combat weapon • 1x Liberator autostubs

Kelermorph (60 Points) • 1x Close combat weapon • 1x Liberator autostubs

Reductus Saboteur (65 Points) • Warlord • 1x Autopistol • 1x Close combat weapon • 1x Demolition charges • 1x Remote explosives

BATTLELINE

Acolyte Hybrids with Hand Flamers (70 Points) • 1x Acolyte Leader ◦ 1x Hand flamer ◦ 1x Leader's bio-weapons • 4x Acolyte Hybrid ◦ 1x Cult Icon ◦ 4x Cult claws and knife ◦ 3x Hand flamer

Acolyte Hybrids with Hand Flamers (70 Points) • 1x Acolyte Leader ◦ 1x Hand flamer ◦ 1x Leader's bio-weapons • 4x Acolyte Hybrid ◦ 1x Cult Icon ◦ 4x Cult claws and knife ◦ 3x Hand flamer

Acolyte Hybrids with Hand Flamers (70 Points) • 1x Acolyte Leader ◦ 1x Hand flamer ◦ 1x Leader's bio-weapons • 4x Acolyte Hybrid ◦ 1x Cult Icon ◦ 4x Cult claws and knife ◦ 3x Hand flamer

Acolyte Hybrids with Hand Flamers (70 Points) • 1x Acolyte Leader ◦ 1x Hand flamer ◦ 1x Leader's bio-weapons • 4x Acolyte Hybrid ◦ 1x Cult Icon ◦ 4x Cult claws and knife ◦ 3x Hand flamer

Acolyte Hybrids with Hand Flamers (70 Points) • 1x Acolyte Leader ◦ 1x Hand flamer ◦ 1x Leader's bio-weapons • 4x Acolyte Hybrid ◦ 1x Cult Icon ◦ 4x Cult claws and knife ◦ 3x Hand flamer

Acolyte Hybrids with Hand Flamers (70 Points) • 1x Acolyte Leader ◦ 1x Hand flamer ◦ 1x Leader's bio-weapons • 4x Acolyte Hybrid ◦ 1x Cult Icon ◦ 4x Cult claws and knife ◦ 3x Hand flamer

Neophyte Hybrids (65 Points) • 1x Neophyte Leader ◦ 1x Autopistol ◦ 1x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Hybrid firearm • 9x Neophyte Hybrid ◦ 9x Autopistol ◦ 9x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Cult Icon ◦ 1x Flamer ◦ 1x Grenade launcher ◦ 5x Hybrid firearm ◦ 1x Mining laser ◦ 1x Seismic cannon

Neophyte Hybrids (65 Points) • 1x Neophyte Leader ◦ 1x Autopistol ◦ 1x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Hybrid firearm • 9x Neophyte Hybrid ◦ 9x Autopistol ◦ 9x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Cult Icon ◦ 1x Flamer ◦ 1x Grenade launcher ◦ 5x Hybrid firearm ◦ 1x Mining laser ◦ 1x Seismic cannon

Neophyte Hybrids (65 Points) • 1x Neophyte Leader ◦ 1x Autopistol ◦ 1x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Hybrid firearm • 9x Neophyte Hybrid ◦ 9x Autopistol ◦ 9x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Cult Icon ◦ 1x Flamer ◦ 1x Grenade launcher ◦ 5x Hybrid firearm ◦ 1x Mining laser ◦ 1x Seismic cannon

Neophyte Hybrids (65 Points) • 1x Neophyte Leader ◦ 1x Autopistol ◦ 1x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Hybrid firearm • 9x Neophyte Hybrid ◦ 9x Autopistol ◦ 9x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Cult Icon ◦ 1x Flamer ◦ 1x Grenade launcher ◦ 5x Hybrid firearm ◦ 1x Mining laser ◦ 1x Seismic cannon

DEDICATED TRANSPORTS

Goliath Truck (85 Points) • 1x Armoured hull • 1x Demolition charge cache • 1x Heavy stubber • 1x Twin autocannon

Goliath Truck (85 Points) • 1x Armoured hull • 1x Demolition charge cache • 1x Heavy stubber • 1x Twin autocannon

OTHER DATASHEETS

Achilles Ridgerunners (170 Points) • 2x Achilles Ridgerunner ◦ 2x Armoured hull ◦ 2x Heavy mining laser ◦ 2x Spotter ◦ 2x Twin heavy stubber

Achilles Ridgerunners (95 Points) • 1x Armoured hull • 1x Heavy mortar • 1x Survey Augur • 1x Twin heavy stubber

Achilles Ridgerunners (170 Points) • 2x Achilles Ridgerunner ◦ 2x Armoured hull ◦ 2x Heavy mining laser ◦ 2x Spotter ◦ 2x Twin heavy stubber

Atalan Jackals (85 Points) • 4x Atalan Jackal ◦ 2x Atalan power weapon ◦ 3x Atalan small arms ◦ 2x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Grenade launcher • 1x Atalan Wolfquad ◦ 1x Atalan incinerator ◦ 1x Atalan small arms ◦ 1x Close combat weapon

Atalan Jackals (85 Points) • 4x Atalan Jackal ◦ 2x Atalan power weapon ◦ 3x Atalan small arms ◦ 2x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Grenade launcher • 1x Atalan Wolfquad ◦ 1x Atalan incinerator ◦ 1x Atalan small arms ◦ 1x Close combat weapon

Goliath Rockgrinder (120 Points) • 1x Clearance incinerator • 1x Demolition charge cache • 1x Drilldozer blade • 1x Heavy stubber

Goliath Rockgrinder (120 Points) • 1x Clearance incinerator • 1x Demolition charge cache • 1x Drilldozer blade • 1x Heavy stubber

Goliath Rockgrinder (120 Points) • 1x Clearance incinerator • 1x Demolition charge cache • 1x Drilldozer blade • 1x Heavy stubber

Exported with App Version: v1.44.0 (2), Data Version: v715

Archetype

Outlander Mission Masters

Thoughts

The 'truckload of OC' (hehe) that is Outlander Claw takes a top placing here, with waves of high OC bikes and vehicles and sticky objectives. It has good weaponry for clearing through hordes and infantry based lists, and it is interesting to see Kelemorphs called into action here- I assume this follows wider trends of trying to set up lots of battle-shock traps for opponents looking to exploit Blood Surge and counterplay traps. GSC are in an odd spot where they aren't seeing much use, but still seem more than capable of doing their thing in the right hands. Well done for demonstrating as such here!

Chris Blackham - Drukhari (Spectacle of Spite) - 3rd Place

Credit: Keewa

The List

Army List - Click to Expand
wyches (2000 points)

Drukhari Strike Force (2000 points) Spectacle of Spite

CHARACTERS

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

Succubus (65 points) • 1x Archite glaive and agoniser • Enhancement: Chronoshard

Succubus (70 points) • 1x Archite glaive and agoniser • Enhancement: Morghenna's Curse

Succubus (50 points) • Warlord • 1x Archite glaive and agoniser

BATTLELINE

Wyches (90 points) • 1x Hekatrix • 1x Blast pistol 1x Power weapon • 9x Wych • 3x Gladiatorial weapons 6x Hekatarii blade 6x Splinter pistol

Wyches (90 points) • 1x Hekatrix • 1x Blast pistol 1x Power weapon • 9x Wych • 3x Gladiatorial weapons 6x Hekatarii blade 6x Splinter pistol

Wyches (90 points) • 1x Hekatrix • 1x Blast pistol 1x Power weapon • 9x Wych • 3x Gladiatorial weapons 6x Hekatarii blade 6x Splinter pistol

Wyches (90 points) • 1x Hekatrix • 1x Blast pistol 1x Power weapon • 9x Wych • 3x Gladiatorial weapons 6x Hekatarii blade 6x Splinter pistol

Wyches (90 points) • 1x Hekatrix • 1x Blast pistol 1x Power weapon • 9x Wych • 3x Gladiatorial weapons 6x Hekatarii blade 6x Splinter pistol

Wyches (90 points) • 1x Hekatrix • 1x Blast pistol 1x Power weapon • 9x Wych • 3x Gladiatorial weapons 6x Hekatarii blade 6x Splinter pistol

DEDICATED TRANSPORTS

Raider (85 points) • 1x Bladevanes and chainsnares 1x Dark lance

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

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

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

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

OTHER DATASHEETS

Cronos (55 points) • 1x Spirit syphon 1x Spirit-leech tentacles

Hellions (170 points) • 1x Helliarch • 1x Hellglaive 1x Splinter pods • 9x Hellion • 9x Hellglaive 9x Splinter pods

Hellions (170 points) • 1x Helliarch • 1x Hellglaive 1x Splinter pods • 9x Hellion • 9x Hellglaive 9x Splinter pods

Hellions (85 points) • 1x Helliarch • 1x Hellglaive 1x Splinter pods • 4x Hellion • 4x Hellglaive 4x Splinter pods

Mandrakes (75 points) • 1x Nightfiend • 1x Baleblast 1x Glimmersteel blade • 4x Mandrake • 4x Baleblast 4x Glimmersteel blade

Reavers (130 points) • 1x Arena Champion • 1x Bladevanes 1x Cluster caltrops 1x Heat lance 1x Splinter pistol • 5x Reaver • 5x Bladevanes 1x Cluster caltrops 1x Heat lance 5x Splinter pistol 4x Splinter rifle

Reavers (70 points) • 1x Arena Champion • 1x Bladevanes 1x Cluster caltrops 1x Heat lance 1x Splinter pistol • 2x Reaver • 2x Bladevanes 2x Splinter pistol 2x Splinter rifle

Reavers (70 points) • 1x Arena Champion • 1x Bladevanes 1x Cluster caltrops 1x Heat lance 1x Splinter pistol • 2x Reaver • 2x Bladevanes 2x Splinter pistol 2x Splinter rifle

Exported with App Version: v1.44.0 (104), Data Version: v715

Archetype

All-in Spectacle of Spite

Thoughts

Guns are for cowards, take the drugs instead. Wych Cults keeps on rocking as the standout competitive build for Drukhari since the new book - Hellions and Wyches slap here, and A Challenge Met blows games open the second a misplay is made, and offers a lot of mission play and primary control in particular. Drukhari are wobbling somewhat since release, but the same can't be said of Spite, which has established itself as a meta staple. Fantastic work on the top placing.

Mike Robertson - T'au Empire (Retaliation Cadre) - 4th Place

Tau Coldstar Commander. Credit: Jack Hunter

The List

Army List - Click to Expand
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ + FACTION KEYWORD: Xenos - T'au Empire + DETACHMENT: Retaliation Cadre (Bonded Heroes) + TOTAL ARMY POINTS: 1990pts + + WARLORD: Char4: Commander in Enforcer Battlesuit + ENHANCEMENT: Prototype Weapon System (on Char2: Commander in Coldstar Battlesuit) & Starflare Ignition System (on Char4: Commander in Enforcer Battlesuit) + NUMBER OF UNITS: 17 + SECONDARY: - Bring It Down: (11x2) - Assassination: 4 Characters +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

CHARACTER

Char1: 1x Commander Farsight (85 pts) 1 with Dawn Blade, High-intensity plasma rifle

Char2: 1x Commander in Coldstar Battlesuit (110 pts) 1 with 2x Burst cannon, Cyclic ion blaster, High-output burst cannon, Battlesuit fists, 2x Twin pulse carbine Enhancement: Prototype Weapon System (+15 pts)

Char3: 1x Commander in Coldstar Battlesuit (95 pts) 1 with 3x Fusion blaster, Battlesuit fists • Shield generator, 2x Shield Drone

Char4: 1x Commander in Enforcer Battlesuit (100 pts) 1 with 4x Missile pod, Battlesuit fists, 2x Twin pulse carbine • Warlord Enhancement: Starflare Ignition System (+20 pts)

OTHER DATASHEETS

10x Kroot Carnivores (65 pts) • 1x Long-quill 1 with Close combat weapon, Kroot pistol, Kroot carbine • 1x Kroot Carnivore 1 with Close combat weapon, Tanglebomb launcher • 8x Kroot Carnivores 8 with Close combat weapon, Kroot rifle

10x Kroot Carnivores (65 pts) • 1x Long-quill 1 with Close combat weapon, Kroot pistol, Kroot carbine • 1x Kroot Carnivore 1 with Close combat weapon, Tanglebomb launcher • 8x Kroot Carnivores 8 with Close combat weapon, Kroot rifle

10x Pathfinder Team (90 pts) • 1x Pathfinder Shas'ui 1 with Close combat weapon, Pulse carbine, Pulse pistol, Semi-automatic grenade launcher, Twin pulse carbine, Drone burst cannon • Shield Drone, Recon droneDrone burst cannon • Pathfinder Shas'ui (Shield Drone) • 9x Pathfinders 6 with Close combat weapon, Pulse carbine, Pulse pistol • Pathfinder Team 3 with Close combat weapon, Ion rifle, Pulse pistol • Pathfinder Team

5x Stealth Battlesuits (110 pts) • 1x Stealth Shas'vre 1 with Battlesuit fists, Pulse pistol, Fusion blaster, Twin pulse carbine • Homing beacon, Marker Drone, Stealth Shas'vre • 4x Stealth Shas'ui 3 with Battlesuit fists, Burst cannon • Stealth Shas'ui 1 with Battlesuit fists, Fusion blaster • Stealth Shas'ui

5x Stealth Battlesuits (110 pts) • 1x Stealth Shas'vre 1 with Battlesuit fists, Pulse pistol, Fusion blaster, Twin pulse carbine • Homing beacon, Marker Drone, Stealth Shas'vre • 4x Stealth Shas'ui 3 with Battlesuit fists, Burst cannon • Stealth Shas'ui 1 with Battlesuit fists, Fusion blaster • Stealth Shas'ui

5x Stealth Battlesuits (110 pts) • 1x Stealth Shas'vre 1 with Battlesuit fists, Pulse pistol, Fusion blaster, Twin pulse carbine • Homing beacon, Marker Drone, Stealth Shas'vre • 4x Stealth Shas'ui 3 with Battlesuit fists, Burst cannon • Stealth Shas'ui 1 with Battlesuit fists, Fusion blaster • Stealth Shas'ui

3x Crisis Fireknife Battlesuits (120 pts) • 1x Crisis Fireknife Shas'vre 1 with 2x Missile pod, Battlesuit fists, Twin pulse carbine • Marker Drone, Crisis Fireknife Shas'vre • 2x Crisis Fireknife Shas'ui 2 with Battlesuit fists, 2x Missile pod, Twin pulse carbine • Shield Drone, Crisis Fireknife Shas'ui (Shield Drone)

3x Crisis Starscythe Battlesuits (110 pts) • 1x Crisis Starscythe Shas'vre 1 with 2x Burst cannon, Battlesuit fists, Twin pulse carbine • Marker Drone, Crisis Starscythe Shas'vre • 2x Crisis Starscythe Shas'ui 2 with 2x Burst cannon, Battlesuit fists, Twin pulse carbine • Shield Drone, Crisis Starscythe Shas'ui (Shield Drone)

3x Crisis Sunforge Battlesuits (140 pts) • 1x Crisis Sunforge Shas'vre 1 with 2x Fusion blaster, Battlesuit fists, Twin pulse carbine • Marker Drone, Crisis Sunforge Shas'vre • 2x Crisis Sunforge Shas'ui 2 with Battlesuit fists, 2x Fusion blaster, Twin pulse carbine • Shield Drone, Crisis Sunforge Shas'ui (Shield Drone)

3x Crisis Sunforge Battlesuits (140 pts) • 1x Crisis Sunforge Shas'vre 1 with 2x Fusion blaster, Battlesuit fists, Twin pulse carbine • Marker Drone, Crisis Sunforge Shas'vre • 2x Crisis Sunforge Shas'ui 2 with Battlesuit fists, 2x Fusion blaster, Twin pulse carbine • Shield Drone, Crisis Sunforge Shas'ui (Shield Drone)

1x Ghostkeel Battlesuit (160 pts) 1 with Ghostkeel fists, Cyclic ion raker, Twin fusion blaster • Battlesuit support system

1x Riptide Battlesuit (190 pts) 1 with Riptide fists, Ion accelerator, 2x Missile pod, Twin fusion blaster

1x Riptide Battlesuit (190 pts) 1 with Riptide fists, Ion accelerator, 2x Missile pod, Twin fusion blaster

Archetype

That Lawyer Show with Meghan Markle

Thoughts

Suits. Suits for days. Ret Cadre can redeploy and apply damage on a whim, and gives you a full Crisis toolkit for managing the many emergent threats of a very volatile meta. I can fully see why you would lean into it right now- Riptides and a Ghostkeel give you a  little bit of solidity amidst the speedy, fragile Crisis Suits. Excellent work on the top placing!

The Best of the Rest

There were 7 more players on 4-1 records. They were:
  • 5th - Riley Morris - Aeldari (Aspect Host): Aspect Host Goodstuff.
  • 6th - Duncan Bluhm - Astra Militarum (Combined Arms): Dorn / Leman Russ Guard with a cheeky Krieg Weapons Team.
  • 7th - John Casey - Space Marines (Astartes) (Gladius Task Force): Ultramarines Goodstuff.
  • 8th - Jordan Adkins - Adepta Sororitas (Hallowed Martyrs): Triple Immolator / MSU Hallowed Martyrs with Vahl in tow.
  • 9th - Justin Crain - Space Marines (Astartes) (Gladius Task Force): More Ultramarines Goodstuff- this one has some Bladeguard!
  • 10th - Jordan Cole - Space Wolves (Stormlance Task Force): Thunderwolf / Wulfen speedy Wolves.
  • 11th - Thomas Byrd - Space Marines (Astartes) (Blade of Ultramar): More Ultramarines Goodstuff.

Winter Warlords 2025 hosted by RWGC

51-player, 5-round Grand Tournament in Henrietta, NY, United States on December 06 2025. All the lists for this event can be found in Best Coast Pairings.

Alex Miller - Death Guard (Champions of Contagion) - 1st Place

Credit: Robert "TheChirurgeon" Jones

The List

Army List - Click to Expand
kowabunga it is? (2000 points)

Death Guard Strike Force (2000 points) Champions of Contagion

CHARACTERS

Biologus Putrifier (60 points) • 1x Hyper blight grenades 1x Injector pistol 1x Plague knives

Biologus Putrifier (60 points) • 1x Hyper blight grenades 1x Injector pistol 1x Plague knives

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

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

Mortarion (380 points) • Warlord • 1x Lantern 1x Rotwind 1x Silence

Tallyman (50 points) • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Plasma pistol

BATTLELINE

Plague Marines (190 points) • 1x Plague Champion • 1x Plasma pistol 1x Power fist • 9x Plague Marine • 2x Blight launcher 1x Boltgun 4x Heavy plague weapon 1x Icon of Despair (Aura) 2x Meltagun 9x Plague knives

Plague Marines (190 points) • 1x Plague Champion • 1x Plasma pistol 1x Power fist • 9x Plague Marine • 2x Blight launcher 1x Boltgun 4x Bubotic weapons 1x Icon of Despair (Aura) 2x Meltagun 9x Plague knives

Plague Marines (95 points) • 1x Plague Champion • 1x Boltgun 1x Power fist • 4x Plague Marine • 2x Bubotic weapons 1x Plague belcher 4x Plague knives 1x Plague spewer

DEDICATED TRANSPORTS

Chaos Rhino (85 points) • 1x Armoured tracks 2x Combi-bolter 1x Havoc launcher

Chaos Rhino (85 points) • 1x Armoured tracks 2x Combi-bolter 1x Havoc launcher

OTHER DATASHEETS

Chaos Spawn (80 points) • 2x Chaos Spawn • 2x Hideous mutations

Chaos Spawn (80 points) • 2x Chaos Spawn • 2x Hideous mutations

Foetid Bloat-Drone (100 points) • 1x Fleshmower 1x Plague probe

Foetid Bloat-Drone with Heavy Blight Launcher (120 points) • 1x Heavy blight launcher 1x Plague probe

Foetid Bloat-Drone with Heavy Blight Launcher (120 points) • 1x Heavy blight launcher 1x Plague probe

Foetid Bloat-Drone with Heavy Blight Launcher (120 points) • 1x Heavy blight launcher 1x Plague probe

Poxwalkers (65 points) • 10x Poxwalker • 10x Improvised weapon

Exported with App Version: v1.44.0 (104), Data Version: v715

Archetype

Champs with Morty

Thoughts

A deliciously techy Death Guard list that highlights there is life in this book yet- Champions with two full Plague Marine bricks AND Mortarion. This gives you reactive move antics on bricks that can pop a Fights First at will - couple that with Morty's 2+ Fight on Death and the flexible Contagion application of Champions, and you have a toolkit that is more than ready to go and make a mess of combat match ups. Triple Bloat Drones because, well, of course! A really cool list, well done on the event win!

John Davison - Space Wolves (Saga of the Beastslayer) - 2nd Place (Undefeated)

Logan Grimnar. Credit: Rich Nutter

The List

Army List - Click to Expand
They Call Me The Beasts Layer Because The Wolf Carceral State Fucks Us All (1995 points)

Space Marines Space Wolves Strike Force (2000 points) Saga of the Beastslayer

CHARACTERS

Arjac Rockfist (105 points) • 1x Foehammer

Lieutenant with Combi-weapon (85 points) • 1x Combi-weapon 1x Paired combat blades • Enhancement: Helm of the Beastslayer

Logan Grimnar (110 points) • Warlord • 1x Axe Morkai 1x Storm bolter 1x Tyrnak and Fenrir

Ragnar Blackmane (100 points) • 1x Bolt Pistol 1x Frostfang

Wolf Guard Battle Leader (80 points) • 1x Master-crafted power weapon 1x Plasma pistol • Enhancement: Wolf-touched

OTHER DATASHEETS

Ballistus Dreadnought (150 points) • 1x Armoured feet 1x Ballistus lascannon 1x Ballistus missile launcher 1x Twin storm bolter

Ballistus Dreadnought (150 points) • 1x Armoured feet 1x Ballistus lascannon 1x Ballistus missile launcher 1x Twin storm bolter

Scout Squad (70 points) • 1x Scout Sergeant • 1x Astartes chainsword 1x Bolt pistol 1x Close combat weapon • 4x Scout • 4x Bolt pistol 4x Close combat weapon 2x Combat knife 1x Missile launcher 1x Scout sniper rifle

Scout Squad (70 points) • 1x Scout Sergeant • 1x Astartes chainsword 1x Bolt pistol 1x Close combat weapon • 4x Scout • 4x Bolt pistol 4x Close combat weapon 2x Combat knife 1x Heavy bolter 1x Scout sniper rifle

Thunderwolf Cavalry (115 points) • 1x Thunderwolf Cavalry Pack Leader • 1x Storm Shield 1x Teeth and Claws 1x Wolf Guard weapon • 2x Thunderwolf Cavalry • 2x Storm Shield 2x Teeth and Claws 2x Wolf Guard weapon

Thunderwolf Cavalry (115 points) • 1x Thunderwolf Cavalry Pack Leader • 1x Storm Shield 1x Teeth and Claws 1x Wolf Guard weapon • 2x Thunderwolf Cavalry • 2x Storm Shield 2x Teeth and Claws 2x Wolf Guard weapon

Thunderwolf Cavalry (115 points) • 1x Thunderwolf Cavalry Pack Leader • 1x Storm Shield 1x Teeth and Claws 1x Wolf Guard weapon • 2x Thunderwolf Cavalry • 2x Storm Shield 2x Teeth and Claws 2x Wolf Guard weapon

Wolf Guard Headtakers (85 points) • 3x Wolf Guard Headtaker • 3x Heavy bolt pistol 3x Paired master‑crafted power weapons

Wolf Guard Terminators (170 points) • 1x Wolf Guard Terminator Pack Leader • 1x Relic greataxe • 4x Wolf Guard Terminator • 1x Assault cannon 3x Master-crafted power weapon 1x Power fist 3x Storm Shield

Wolf Guard Terminators (170 points) • 1x Wolf Guard Terminator Pack Leader • 1x Relic greataxe • 4x Wolf Guard Terminator • 1x Assault cannon 3x Master-crafted power weapon 1x Power fist 3x Storm Shield

Wolf Scouts (105 points) • 1x Wolf Scout Pack Leader • 1x Plasma pistol 1x Power weapon • 4x Wolf Scout • 1x Bolt pistol 3x Combat blade 1x Haywire Mine 1x Plasma gun 2x Plasma pistol 1x Runic stave 1x Thunderclap • 1x Hunting Wolf • 1x Teeth and claws

Wulfen with Storm Shields (200 points) • 10x Wulfen • 10x Stormfrag auto-launcher 10x Thunder hammer

Exported with App Version: v1.44.0 (104), Data Version: v715

Archetype

Mixed Arms Beastslayer

Thoughts

Space Wolves appear to be growing into the meta game, and the big stuff whacking power of Beastlayer takes a podium here. Access to Lethals and rerolls helps it punch up, and the Thunderwolves give you some of that Wolf Jail energy popularised in Storm Lance. Excellent work on the top placing!

The Best of the Rest

There were 6 more players on 4-1 records. They were:
  • 3rd - Colton Miller - Adepta Sororitas (Champions of Faith): Another Champions Sacrosanct list! A break out build?!
  • 4th - Jade Smith - T'au Empire (Retaliation Cadre): Massed Suits in Ret Cadre.
  • 5th - Greg Seward - Blood Angels (Liberator Assault Group): Punchy all-in Liberator.
  • 6th - Connor Reynolds - Tyranids (Invasion Fleet): Triple Norn Invasion Fleet.
  • 7th - Donnie Wilkinson - Chaos Knights (Infernal Lance): Triple Despoiler CK.

December Grand Tournament at GG presented by Warhound Tournaments

40-player, 6-round Grand Tournament in Lehi, UT, US on December 06 2025. All the lists for this event can be found in Best Coast Pairings.

Drake Valle - World Eaters (Berzerker Warband) - 1st Place

Credit: Robert "TheChirurgeon" Jones

The List

Army List - Click to Expand
rg-20/0 (2000 points)

World Eaters Strike Force (2000 points) Berzerker Warband

CHARACTERS

Daemon Prince of Khorne (215 points) • 1x Hellforged weapons 1x Infernal cannon • Enhancement: Favoured of Khorne

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

Slaughterbound (110 points) • 1x Lacerator and daemonic claw • Enhancement: Berzerker Glaive

BATTLELINE

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

DEDICATED TRANSPORTS

Chaos Rhino (85 points) • 1x Armoured tracks 1x Combi-bolter 1x Combi-weapon 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

Eightbound (135 points) • 1x Eightbound Champion • 1x Chainblades • 2x Eightbound • 2x Chainblades

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

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

Helbrute (120 points) • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Helbrute fist 1x Helbrute hammer

Helbrute (120 points) • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Helbrute fist 1x Helbrute hammer

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: v1.44.0 (104), Data Version: v715

Archetype

Et Tu, Brute?

Thoughts

World Eaters claim another event win here with old school chain react-fighting Helbrutes, lots of Eightbound and Berzerkers. No real guns here, as Khorne intended. This highlights the range of ways you can build out from the theme of 'go fast and smash' - as lists start to get their heads around the Berzerker brick plays, perhaps full MSU is the correct pivot? Amazing work on the event win!

The Best of the Rest

There was 5 more player on 4-1+ records. They were:
  • 2nd (4.5-0.5) - Nick Gaddis - Genestealer Cult (Biosanctic Broodsurge): Classic triple Abominant / double Laser Runner Broodsurge - one of my OG lists! Love it.
  • 3rd - Steven Hall - Emperor's Children (Mercurial Host): HERO points for taking Fulgrim in Mercurial Host, absolutely epic stuff.
  • 4th - Jordan Gledhill - Dark Angels (Company of Hunters): Brutal speedy CoH with Centurions and Outrider bricks.
  • 5th - Ryan Mcguire - Space Wolves (Stormlance Task Force): Speedy Terminator / Wulfen / Headtaker Stormlance.
  • 6th - Cameron Newton - Chaos Knights (Infernal Lance): Rotigus and Double Despoilers in Infernal.

Legion GT

32-player, 5-round Grand Tournament in Liberecký kraj, Česko on December 06 2025. All the lists for this event can be found in Best Coast Pairings.

Jakub Klinský - Chaos Daemons (Plague Legion) - 1st Place

Credit: Robert "TheChirurgeon" Jones

The List

Army List - Click to Expand
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ + FACTION KEYWORD: Chaos - Chaos Daemons + DETACHMENT: Plague Legion (Melancholic Miasma) + TOTAL ARMY POINTS: 1990pts + + WARLORD: Char1: Be'lakor + ENHANCEMENT: Font of Spores (Aura) (on Char5: Great Unclean One) + NUMBER OF UNITS: 11 + SECONDARY: - Bring It Down: (6x6) - Assassination: 6 Characters +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Char1: 1x Be'lakor (375 pts): Warlord, Betraying Shades, The Blade of Shadows Char2: 1x Kairos Fateweaver (270 pts): Infernal Gateway, Staff of Tomorrow Char3: 1x Rotigus (250 pts): Gnarlrod, Streams of brackish filth Char4: 1x Great Unclean One (250 pts): Putrid vomit, Bilesword, Plague flail Char5: 1x Great Unclean One (270 pts): Putrid vomit, Bilesword, Plague flail Enhancement: Font of Spores (Aura) (+20 pts) Char6: 1x Great Unclean One (250 pts): Putrid vomit, Bilesword, Plague flail

3x Flamers (65 pts) • 1x Pyrocaster: Flamer mouths, Flickering Flames • 2x Flamer: 2 with Flamer mouths, Flickering Flames 3x Flamers (65 pts) • 1x Pyrocaster: Flamer mouths, Flickering Flames • 2x Flamer: 2 with Flamer mouths, Flickering Flames 3x Flamers (65 pts) • 1x Pyrocaster: Flamer mouths, Flickering Flames • 2x Flamer: 2 with Flamer mouths, Flickering Flames 1x Beasts of Nurgle (65 pts): Putrid appendages 1x Beasts of Nurgle (65 pts): Putrid appendages

Archetype

Plague Legion Big Boy Time

Thoughts

A twist on the classic Greater Daemon spam, leaning harder on GUOs and building into the many, many battle-shocks of Plague Legion. This detachment creeps up on you hard - it feels manageable, and then the shocks start to toll and you find yourself slipping on score as big fat gribblies chuckle at your dismay. It's awesome, underexplored,  and further proof of just how good the Daemons are right now. Kairos makes the cut too -  a bit of indirect and some CP gen / Vect is definitely valuable at the moment! Aspect Host beware... Excellent work on the event win!!!

The Best of the Rest

There were 4 more players on 4-1 records. They were:
  • 2nd - Jan Ferjenčík - Aeldari (Aspect Host): Aspect Host Goodstuff with the Avatar of Khaine.
  • 3rd - Adam Tetour - Chaos Daemons (Scintillating Legion): Buckets of Screamers and Chickens in Scintillating.
  • 4th - Vlasta Král - Adeptus Mechanicus (Skitarii Hunter Cohort): Siegler style massed Chickens and bodies in Hunter Cohort.
  • 5th - Niels Scheer - Space Marines (Astartes) (Shadowmark Talon): Raven Guard Goodstuff.

Shanghai 40K GT Dec 2025

30-player, 5-round Grand Tournament in Shang Hai Shi, China on December 05 2025. All the lists for this event can be found in Best Coast Pairings.

Qifan Zhu - Astra Militarum (Combined Arms) - 1st Place

Kasrkin Kill Team. Credit: Jack Hunter

The List

Army List - Click to Expand
紫色激情军团 Purple Passion Legion (2000 Points)

Astra Militarum Combined Arms Strike Force (2,000 Points)

CHARACTERS

罗马大帝指挥官 Roman Emperor Cadian Castellan (55 Points) • 1x Plasma pistol • 1x Power fist

黑魔术师指挥组 Black Magician Cadian Command Squad (65 Puoints) • 1x Cadian Commander • Warlord ◦ 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

水无月指挥组 Minazuki Catachan Command Squad (65 Points) • 1x Catachan Commander ◦ 1x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Plasma pistol ◦ 1x Power fist • 4x Veteran Guardsman ◦ 4x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Heavy flamer ◦ 2x Lasgun ◦ 4x Laspistol ◦ 1x Medi-pack ◦ 1x Plasma gun ◦ 1x Regimental Standard

保镖格蕾丝 Grace Ogryn Bodyguard (40 Points) • 1x Brute Shield • 1x Close combat weapon • 1x Ripper gun

紫色心情号 Purple Emotion Rogal Dorn Commander (275 Points) • 1x Armoured tracks • 1x Coaxial autocannon • 1x Heavy stubber • 2x Meltagun • 2x Multi-melta • 1x Oppressor cannon • 1x Pulveriser cannon

油醋汁号 Vinaigrette Rogal Dorn Commander (275 Points) • 1x Armoured tracks • 1x Coaxial autocannon • 1x Heavy stubber • 2x Meltagun • 2x Multi-melta • 1x Oppressor cannon • 1x Pulveriser cannon

BATTLELINE

小鬼魔皇队 Little Demon King Cadian Shock Troops (120 Points) • 2x Shock Trooper Sergeant ◦ 2x Close combat weapon ◦ 2x Sergeant's autogun • 18x Shock Trooper ◦ 18x Close combat weapon ◦ 14x Lasgun ◦ 2x Meltagun ◦ 2x Plasma gun ◦ 2x Vox-caster

奈奈子突击队 Nanako Catachan Jungle Fighters (65 Points) • 1x Jungle Fighter Sergeant ◦ 1x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Laspistol • 9x Jungle Fighter ◦ 9x Close combat weapon ◦ 2x Flamer ◦ 7x Lasgun ◦ 1x Vox-caster

琉璃子突击队 Ryuko Catachan Jungle Fighters (65 Points) • 1x Jungle Fighter Sergeant ◦ 1x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Laspistol • 9x Jungle Fighter ◦ 9x Close combat weapon ◦ 2x Flamer ◦ 7x Lasgun ◦ 1x Vox-caster

DEDICATED TRANSPORTS

魔眼号 Magic Eyes Chimera (85 Points) • 1x Armoured tracks • 1x Heavy flamer • 1x Heavy flamer • 1x Heavy stubber • 1x Hunter-killer missile • 1x Lasgun array

见习天使号 Trainee Angel Chimera (85 Points) • 1x Armoured tracks • 1x Heavy flamer • 1x Heavy flamer • 1x Heavy stubber • 1x Hunter-killer missile • 1x Lasgun array

宝石术士号 Gem Sorcerer Taurox (75 Points) • 1x Armoured tracks • 1x Storm bolter • 1x Twin autocannon

OTHER DATASHEETS

血滴子帮 Blood Droplet Bullgryn Squad (200 Points) • 1x Bullgryn Bone 'ead ◦ 1x Brute Shield ◦ 1x Bullgryn maul ◦ 1x Close combat weapon • 5x Bullgryn ◦ 5x Brute Shield ◦ 5x Bullgryn maul ◦ 5x Close combat weapon

御神子特攻队 Goshenko 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

埃及妖后特攻队 Cleopatra 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

春风精灵特攻队 Spring Breeze Elf 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

柔情猫娘号 Tender Cat Girl Leman Russ Vanquisher (145 Points) • 1x Armoured tracks • 1x Heavy stubber • 1x Hunter-killer missile • 1x Lascannon • 2x Multi-melta • 1x Vanquisher battle cannon

贤者物语号 Tale of the Sage Scout Sentinels (55 Points) • 1x Close combat weapon • 1x Hunter-killer missile • 1x Lascannon • 1x Sentinel chainsaw

Exported with App Version: v1.44.0 (2), Data Version: v715

Archetype

Combined Arms Goodstuff

Thoughts

Team China stalwart Qifan takes names on classic Combined Arms Guard. I think this is the army to watch after the dataslate- new rules, no nerfs, and a rules and datasheet core that was already more than capable of winning events. Things might get... grizzly. Hehe. Amazing work on the event win :D

The Best of the Rest

There were 5 more players on 4-1 records. They were:
  • 2nd - Yun SHEN - World Eaters (Berzerker Warband): All-in melee MSU WE.
  • 3rd - 我布道啊 IDK - Necrons (Starshatter Arsenal): MSU Lords / Destroyers out ahead of the DDA castle.
  • 4th - Joe Shi - Adeptus Mechanicus (Haloscreed Battle Clade): A cheeky Onager Dunecrawler sneaks in admist the Haloscreed Goodstuff.
  • 5th - yizheng shen - World Eaters (Berzerker Warband): Double Berzerker brick supported by MSU.
  • 6th - Thomas Pendzinski - Blood Angels (Liberator Assault Group): MSU BA with a Rep Ex and Baal Predator for support.

DicePodGT

26-player, 5-round Grand Tournament in Москва, Москва, Россия on December 06 2025. All the lists for this event can be found in Best Coast Pairings.

Vladimir Dudkevich - Astra Militarum (Recon Element) - 1st Place

Shock Troops. Credit: Rockfish Shock Troops. Credit: Rockfish

The List

Army List - Click to Expand
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ + Player: Vladimir "Colonel_Fin" Dudkevich + HIN:64 + Army name: Our flame will warm you to die! + Army Faction used: Astra Millitarum + DETACHMENT: Recon Element + TOTAL ARMY POINTS: 2000 pts + WARLORD: Char1: Gaunt Ghosts + ENHANCEMENT: none + SECONDARY: Bring It Down: 2 VP, Assassination: 32 VP, Cull the Horde:15 VP +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Char1: Gaunts Ghosts [100] Warlord Char2: Cadian Castellan [55] power fist, plasma pistol Char3: Cadian Castellan [55] power fist, plasma pistol Char4: Cadian Castellan [55] power fist, plasma pistol Char5: Cadian command squad [65] 2 plasma gun, 2 plasma pistol, power fist Char6: Cadian command squad [65] 2 plasma pistol, 2 power fist, Regimental Standart Char7: Cadian command squad [65] 2 plasma gun, 2 plasma pistol, power fist Char8: Nork Deddog [60] Char9: Sly Marbo [55]

Bl1: 20 Cadia Shock Troops [120] 2 plasmagun, 2 meltagun, 2 vox-caster, 2 Chainsword, 2 boltpistol Bl2: 20 Cadia Shock Troops [120] 2 plasmagun, 2 meltagun, 2 vox-caster, 2 Sergeant's autogun Bl3: 20 Cadia Shock Troops [120] 2 plasmagun, 2 meltagun, 2 vox-caster, 2 Sergeant's autogun BL5: 10 Death Korps of Krieg [65] plasmagun, meltagun, vox-caster, Plasmapistol & Power weapon, Death Korps Medi-pack BL6: 10 Death Korps of Krieg [65] plasmagun, meltagun, vox-caster, Plasmapistol & Power weapon, Death Korps Medi-pack BL7: 10 Death Korps of Krieg [65] plasmagun, meltagun, vox-caster, Plasmapistol & Power weapon, Death Korps Medi-pack

OD1: 10 Atillan Rough Riders [120] Power Sabre OD2: 10 Atillan Rough Riders [120] Power Sabre OD3: 5 Atillan Rough Riders [60] Power Sabre OD4: 10 Kasrkin [110] 2 plasmagun, 2 meltagun, melta mine, plasmapistol&power sword, Hot-shot marksman rifle OD5: 10 Kasrkin [110] 2 plasmagun, 2 meltagun, melta mine, plasmapistol&power sword, Hot-shot marksman rifle OD6: 10 Tempestus Aquilons [100] sentry flamer, melta carbine, Hot-shot long-las OD7: 3 Krieg Heavy Weapons Squad [75] Krieg heavy flamer OD8: 3 Krieg Heavy Weapons Squad [75] Krieg heavy flamer OD8: 3 Krieg Heavy Weapons Squad [75] Krieg heavy flamer OD9: Cyclops demolition vehicle [25]

Archetype

Recon Horde

Thoughts

An event win for the Recon Guard infantry carpet. This list can put you in a relentless OC jail, using the Kasrkin and Rough Riders to snipe out any hard targets as it does so. You often see Recon run with some Dorns in support - no such cowardice here, every problem is solved by throwing organic meat under the bus. When the first man falls, pick up his rifle, and carry on! Glorious stuff, well done on the event win.

The Best of the Rest

There were 2 more players on 4-1 records. They were:
  • 2nd - Nikita (Chester) Krokhin - Leagues of Votann (Hearthband): Double Land Fort / Hearthguard heavy Hearthband.
  • 3rd - Dmitry Nielle - Adepta Sororitas (Champions of Faith): MORE Champions of Faith - this thing is in vogue!!

Wrap Up

There you have it folks! A meta wide open, with a slate coming in hot. Elves look to be slipping here, a trend one imagines is likely to continue. Guard on the rise, and the Ultramarine menace at least partially in check, for now. Will it last?!

Have fun out there!

Lowest of Men, out.

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Tags: ultramarines | Space Marines | tyranids | space wolves | world eaters | drukhari | Adeptus Mechanicus | chaos daemons | Genestealer Cults | Orks | Astra Militarum | tau | Meta Analysis | Competitive Innovations | death gurd

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