This weekend a momentous event took place – I took a Wraithknight to a GT and…
**Extremely Loud Incorrect Buzzer**
Rob is looking at me from the other side of the (very real) Goonhammer offices and shaking his head, which I guess is my prompt to switch to the actual intro here. The Las Vegas Open 2023 is in the books, and a new ITC champion crowned. Last week Falcon and I put together some predictions of what lists might rise to the top, and to see how we did, and also to celebrate the fantastic runs that took eight players to the finals, we’re going to blast through all of the top eight as a final farewell to Nephilim (and skip out on a Showdown for that, because you can watch the final here).
Unsurprisingly, with so many US players gathered in Vegas there weren’t any other GTs in the states, but over in the UK and Europe Arks is also kicking into gear, and we have four events to talk about. We’ll be covering:
- The Las Vegas Open (supermajor++ turbo deluxe)
- Bembel Clash #6
- Da Bolton Waaagh 2023
- Oxford Onslaught
- DZTV January GT at FactoruM
With events kicking off for the year in earnest, and everyone except Vegas now firmly Ark-pilled, democracy has been unleashed once more on the Goonhammer Discord, and our patrons have voted for the Showdowns they want to see. This week, we’ll be looking at:
- Chaos Daemons vs. Dark Angels at the DZTV January GT
- Hail of Doom vs. Lucius Horde at Bembel Clash
Finally, as a very special treat for my fellow Wraithknight fans, there might be a small bonus section at the end containing the list I took at the weekend, since it worked pretty well, and was a tonne of fun. No Wraithknight tourists though. Real Wraithknight fans only.
Frontline Gaming LVO 2023 Warhammer 40K Champs
954-player, 9-round Supermajor in Las Vegas, NV US on January 27 2023. All the lists for this event can be found in Best Coast Pairings.
Jack Harpster – Blood Angels – 1st Place
The List
Army List - Click to Expand Commander Dante – Warlord: No Trait – 165 5x Infiltrators – 120 7x Sanguinary Guard – 210 Blood Angels Auxiliary Sanguinary Ancient – Wrath of Baal, Rites of War – 110
Blood Angels Battalion
Lemartes – Catechism of Fire, Mantra of Strength – 120
Sanguinary Priest – Jump Pack, Teeth of Terra, Soulwarden – 120
5x Infiltrators – 120
5x Infiltrators – 120
7x Sanguinary Guard – 210
7x Sanguinary Guard – 210
5x Death Company – 4x Thunder Hammers, Jump Packs – 165
5x Death Company – 5x Inferno Pistols, 2x Power Fists, 3x Power Swords, Jump Packs – 165
5x Death Company – 5x Inferno Pistols, 2x Power Fists, 3x Power Swords, Jump Packs – 165
Archetype
Blood Angels Jet Pack Spam
Final Round Matchup
93 – 30 Victory against Sean Nayden – Goffs.
Thoughts
He got there! Harpster was one of the serious contenders for ITC champion going into the event, and sealed the deal by taking out Mike Porter in the semi-finals. Not content with that, he then took down Sean’s Goff horde to take the double trophy. This list isn’t super complicated, but has an almost unparallelled ability to punch in the fight phase, giving it the numbers to cleave through Ork hordes and endless clown cars alike. Fury of the Lost and Relentless Assault also reward it heavily for doing what it was already planning to do, meaning that an opponent can’t try and play around the fight – and no one managed it. As well as being strong in general, the list can make good use of player-placed terrain, as its tools are very easy to hide, making it a good choice for the format. Going into Arks, the list loses Armour of Contempt and some of its Secondaries, but gains more bodies, more inferno pistols, and access to the improved core Marine Secondary picks, which should give it a good shot at performing. Huge congratulations to Jack on victory.
Sean Nayden – Goffs – 2nd Place
The List
Army List - Click to Expand + Configuration + Clan Kultur: Goffs Gametype: 4. Chapter Approved: War Zone Nephilim + HQ + Boss Zagstruk [6 PL, 110pts] Warboss in Mega Armour [6 PL, 115pts]: Trukk Boyz, Warlord + Troops + Gretchin [2 PL, 40pts] Gretchin [2 PL, 40pts] Gretchin [2 PL, 40pts] + Elites + Kommandos [4 PL, 60pts] Meganobz [6 PL, 90pts] Meganobz [12 PL, 120pts] Meganobz [12 PL, 120pts] Nob with Waaagh! Banner [4 PL, 70pts] Nobz [6 PL, 125pts] + Fast Attack + Stormboyz [3 PL, 60pts] Warbikers [4 PL, 85pts] Warbikers [4 PL, 85pts] + Heavy Support + Battlewagon [8 PL, 105pts] Battlewagon [8 PL, 105pts] Lootas [4 PL, 70pts] + Dedicated Transport + Trukk [5 PL, 85pts]: Squig-hide Tyres ++ Patrol Detachment -2CP (Orks) [27 PL, 475pts, -5CP] ++ + Configuration + Clan Kultur: Goffs Detachment Command Cost [-2CP] + HQ + Warboss on Warbike [6 PL, 115pts, -2CP]: 4. Brutal but Kunnin, Da Killa Klaw, Power Klaw, Stratagem: Big Boss, Stratagem: Extra Gubbinz + Troops + Gretchin [2 PL, 40pts] + Elites + Nobz [12 PL, 195pts]: Trukk Boyz + Fast Attack + Nob on Smasha Squig [4 PL, 65pts, -1CP]: Headwoppa’s Killchoppa, Stratagem: Extra Gubbinz Stormboyz [3 PL, 60pts] ++ Total: [125 PL, 1CP, 2,000pts] ++
++ Battalion Detachment 0CP (Orks) [98 PL, 1,525pts, 6CP] ++
. 10x Gretchin: 10x Grot Blaster
. 10x Gretchin: 10x Grot Blaster
. 10x Gretchin: 10x Grot Blaster
. Boss Nob: Power Klaw
. 4x Kommando: 4x Choppa, 4x Slugga, 4x Stikkbombs
. Boss Meganob: Kustom Shoota, Power Klaw
. Meganob: Kustom Shoota, Power Klaw
. Meganob: Kustom Shoota, Power Klaw
. Boss Meganob: Kustom Shoota, Power Klaw
. Meganob: Kustom Shoota, Power Klaw
. Meganob: Kustom Shoota, Power Klaw
. Meganob: Kustom Shoota, Power Klaw
. Boss Meganob: Kustom Shoota, Power Klaw
. Meganob: Kustom Shoota, Power Klaw
. Meganob: Kustom Shoota, Power Klaw
. Meganob: Kustom Shoota, Power Klaw
. Boss Nob: Choppa, Power Klaw
. Nob: Choppa, Power Klaw
. Nob: Choppa, Power Klaw
. Nob: Choppa, Power Klaw
. Nob: Choppa, Power Klaw
. Boss Nob: Power Klaw
. 4x Stormboy: 4x Choppa, 4x Slugga, 4x Stikkbombs
. Boss Nob: Power Klaw
. 2x Warbiker w/ Choppa: 2x Choppa, 4x Dakkagun
. Boss Nob: Power Klaw
. 2x Warbiker w/ Choppa: 2x Choppa, 4x Dakkagun
. 4x Loota: 4x Deffgun, 4x Stikkbombs
. Spanner: Big Shoota
. 10x Gretchin: 10x Grot Blaster
. Boss Nob: Choppa, Power Klaw
. Nob: Choppa, Power Klaw
. Nob: Choppa, Power Klaw
. Nob: Choppa, Power Klaw
. Nob: Choppa, Power Klaw
. Nob: Big Choppa, Choppa
. Nob: Choppa, Power Klaw
. Nob: Choppa, Power Klaw
. Boss Nob: Power Klaw
. 4x Stormboy: 4x Choppa, 4x Slugga, 4x Stikkbombs
Archetype
Goff Pressure
Thoughts
Blood Angels vs. Goffs on the top table? Was this LVO happening in Second Edition? Ork horde looked like a decent sleeper prospect for the event thanks to how well it plays some of the critical missions, and Sean was able to navigate that to the privilege of being the only player not to have to participate in a shadow round thanks to his high scores. This list has a very simple plan, which is to lock opponents clean out of the game with a fast Waaagh turn – it can put so much stuff in their face, and take such a big chunk out of them, that it becomes tricky to recover, especially as the backfield Gretchin and Lootas only need 3-4 turns to max out Get Da Good Bitz. Only Jack’s Blood Angels had the sheer counter-charge killing power to shut that down, finally ending Sean’s run in second place. This list will need a little more re-tooling in Arks, both to fit it into the detachment and because there’s no longer any way of taking multiple Trukk Boyz units. However, basic Nobz get a tasty discount, so expect to see plenty more of them about. Congratulations to Sean as well on taking second.
Matt Morosoli – Chaos Daemons – 3rd Place
The List
Army List - Click to Expand + Configuration + Chaos Allegiance: Chaos Undivided Detachment Command Cost Game Type: 4. Chapter Approved: War Zone Nephilim + HQ + Bloodthirster [18 PL, 350pts, -1CP]: A’rgath, the King of Blades, Great axe of Khorne, Indomitable Onslaught, Stratagem: Relic Changecaster [4 PL, 80pts]: Gaze of Fate, Infernal Flames, Ritual dagger Lord of Change [17 PL, 330pts, -2CP]: Bolt of Change, Boon of Change, Incorporeal Form, Infernal Gateway, Master Mutator, Relics of the Impossible Fortress, Stratagem: Warlord Trait, The Impossible Robe, Warlord + Troops + Bloodletters [6 PL, 130pts]: Daemonic icon, Instrument of Chaos Daemonettes [6 PL, 120pts]: Daemonic icon, Instrument of Chaos Daemonettes [6 PL, 120pts]: Daemonic icon, Instrument of Chaos Nurglings [3 PL, 60pts] + Elites + Flamers [6 PL, 125pts]: Pyrocaster Flamers [6 PL, 125pts]: Pyrocaster Flamers [6 PL, 100pts]: Pyrocaster ++ Patrol Detachment -2CP (Chaos – Daemons) [23 PL, 460pts, -2CP] ++ + Configuration + Chaos Allegiance: Khorne Detachment Command Cost [-2CP] Game Type + HQ + Skarbrand [17 PL, 330pts] + Troops + Bloodletters [6 PL, 130pts]: Daemonic icon, Instrument of Chaos ++ Total: [101 PL, 2,000pts, -5CP] ++
++ Battalion Detachment 0CP (Chaos – Daemons) [78 PL, 1,540pts, -3CP] ++
. 9x Bloodletter: 9x Hellblade
. 9x Daemonette: 9x Piercing claws
. 9x Daemonette: 9x Piercing claws
. 3x Nurgling Swarms: 3x Diseased claws and teeth
. 4x Flamer: 4x Flickering flames
. 4x Flamer: 4x Flickering flames
. 3x Flamer: 3x Flickering flames
. 9x Bloodletter: 9x Hellblade
Archetype
Monster Mash
Thoughts
Hands up from me here – I underestimated how legit the Monster Mash Daemon builds were ahead of LVO. Because of their non-negotiable super saves, and other durability tricks besides, the big Daemons have the staying power to make it through a long event, where you’re bound to hit a powerful shooting build eventually, without getting blown out at some point. Skarbrand being able to lock opponents in combat, the sheer power of pre-nerf Flamers, and the wrecking ball that is the Indomitable Bloodthirster all contribute as well, allowing not one but two lists on this theme to make it to the top eight, both in the hands of Art of War players. What a run from Matt to make it all the way to the semis with such a cool build! Arks-wise, Daemons are likely to see a reasonable amount of re-tooling now that Flamers need additional support to do very well, but luckily we’ll get to see an example of an updated list later in this very article.
Mike Porter – Harlequins – 4th Place
The List
Army List - Click to Expand ++ Battalion Detachment 0CP (Aeldari – Harlequins) [72 PL, 1,620pts, 4CP] ++ + Configuration + Saedath Characterisation: Light: Blaze of Light + HQ + Shadowseer [5 PL, 100pts]: 3. Mirror of Minds (Witchfire), 4. Veil of Tears (Malediction), Shuriken Pistol Troupe Master [5 PL, 115pts, -2CP]: 3: A Foot in the Future, Fusion Pistol, Harlequin’s Kiss, Queen of Shards, Stratagem: Relic, Stratagem: Warlord Trait, Warlord + Troops + Troupe [4 PL, 95pts] Troupe [4 PL, 90pts] Troupe [4 PL, 90pts] Troupe [4 PL, 90pts] Troupe [4 PL, 90pts] Troupe [4 PL, 90pts] + Elites + Death Jester [4 PL, 90pts]: Lord of Crystal Bones Death Jester [4 PL, 90pts]: Rift Ghoul Solitaire [6 PL, 110pts] + Dedicated Transport + Starweaver [4 PL, 95pts] Starweaver [4 PL, 95pts] Starweaver [4 PL, 95pts] Starweaver [4 PL, 95pts] Starweaver [4 PL, 95pts] Starweaver [4 PL, 95pts] ++ Patrol Detachment -2CP (Aeldari – Harlequins) [17 PL, 380pts, -3CP] ++ + Configuration + Detachment Command Cost [-2CP] Saedath Characterisation: Light: Blaze of Light + HQ + Troupe Master [5 PL, 105pts, -1CP]: Aeldari Power Sword, Fusion Pistol, Stratagem: Treasures of the Aeldari, Veiled King + Troops + Troupe [4 PL, 90pts] Troupe [4 PL, 90pts] + Dedicated Transport + Starweaver [4 PL, 95pts] ++ Total: [89 PL, 1CP, 2,000pts] ++
. Cegorach’s Rose
. Lead Player: Harlequin’s Blade, Shuriken Pistol
. Player: Fusion Pistol, Harlequin’s Kiss
. Player: Fusion Pistol, Harlequin’s Caress
. Player: Harlequin’s Blade, Neuro Disruptor
. Player: Harlequin’s Blade, Neuro Disruptor
. Lead Player: Harlequin’s Blade, Shuriken Pistol
. Player: Fusion Pistol, Harlequin’s Kiss
. Player: Fusion Pistol, Harlequin’s Blade
. Player: Harlequin’s Blade, Neuro Disruptor
. Player: Harlequin’s Blade, Neuro Disruptor
. Lead Player: Harlequin’s Blade, Shuriken Pistol
. Player: Fusion Pistol, Harlequin’s Kiss
. Player: Fusion Pistol, Harlequin’s Blade
. Player: Harlequin’s Blade, Neuro Disruptor
. Player: Harlequin’s Blade, Neuro Disruptor
. Lead Player: Harlequin’s Blade, Shuriken Pistol
. Player: Fusion Pistol, Harlequin’s Kiss
. Player: Fusion Pistol, Harlequin’s Blade
. Player: Harlequin’s Blade, Neuro Disruptor
. Player: Harlequin’s Blade, Neuro Disruptor
. Lead Player: Harlequin’s Blade, Shuriken Pistol
. Player: Fusion Pistol, Harlequin’s Kiss
. Player: Fusion Pistol, Harlequin’s Blade
. Player: Harlequin’s Blade, Neuro Disruptor
. Player: Harlequin’s Blade, Neuro Disruptor
. Lead Player: Harlequin’s Blade, Shuriken Pistol
. Player: Fusion Pistol, Harlequin’s Caress
. Player: Fusion Pistol, Harlequin’s Blade
. Player: Harlequin’s Blade, Neuro Disruptor
. Player: Harlequin’s Blade, Neuro Disruptor
. The Storied Sword
. Lead Player: Harlequin’s Blade, Shuriken Pistol
. Player: Fusion Pistol, Harlequin’s Caress
. Player: Fusion Pistol, Harlequin’s Blade
. Player: Harlequin’s Blade, Neuro Disruptor
. Player: Harlequin’s Blade, Neuro Disruptor
. Lead Player: Harlequin’s Blade, Shuriken Pistol
. Player: Fusion Pistol, Harlequin’s Caress
. Player: Fusion Pistol, Harlequin’s Blade
. Player: Harlequin’s Blade, Neuro Disruptor
. Player: Harlequin’s Blade, Neuro Disruptor
Archetype
Light Saedath
Why it’s Interesting in 9th
At this point I think we can crown Mike the undisputed master of Harlequins for the edition so far, following his supermajor victory just a few weeks ago with fourth place at the LVO. The list and player both need no introduction, being regular stars of this column, but it’s fantastic to see Mike’s talents showcased on the biggest stage there is. The question now is – will he find a way to make the Harlequins work in Arks!
Nick Nanavati – Chaos Daemons – 5th Place
The List
Army List - Click to Expand ++ Battalion Detachment 0CP (Chaos – Daemons) [75 PL, 1,530pts, 4CP] ++ + Configuration + Detachment Command Cost + HQ + Bloodthirster [18 PL, 350pts, -2CP]: A’rgath, the King of Blades, Brazen Hide, Great axe of Khorne, Indomitable Onslaught, Stratagem: Relic, Stratagem: Warlord Trait, Warlord Changecaster [4 PL, 85pts]: Bolt of Change, Infernal Gateway, Staff of change Kairos Fateweaver [16 PL, 320pts] + Troops + Bloodletters [6 PL, 130pts] Daemonettes [6 PL, 120pts] Nurglings [3 PL, 60pts] Plaguebearers [7 PL, 150pts] + Elites + Flamers [6 PL, 150pts]: Pyrocaster Flamers [6 PL, 100pts]: Pyrocaster Flamers [3 PL, 75pts]: Pyrocaster ++ Patrol Detachment -2CP (Chaos – Daemons) [23 PL, 460pts, -2CP] ++ + Configuration + Chaos Allegiance: Khorne Detachment Command Cost [-2CP] Game Type: 4. Chapter Approved: War Zone Nephilim + HQ + Skarbrand [17 PL, 330pts] + Troops + Bloodletters [6 PL, 130pts] ++ Total: [98 PL, 2CP, 1,990pts] ++
. 9x Bloodletter: 9x Hellblade
. 9x Daemonette: 9x Piercing claws
. 3x Nurgling Swarms: 3x Diseased claws and teeth
. 9x Plaguebearer: 9x Plaguesword
. 5x Flamer: 5x Flickering flames
. 3x Flamer: 3x Flickering flames
. 2x Flamer: 2x Flickering flames
. 9x Bloodletter: 9x Hellblade
Archetype
Daemon Monster Mash
Why it’s Interesting in 9th
If there was any doubt about the Art of War Daemon list being the real deal, two copies in the top eight definitely seals that. Nick’s spin on the army trades out the buffed Lord of Change for Kairos, freeing some CP and the Warlord slot to make the super Bloodthirster even nastier, but the basic theme is the same – a nigh-unkillable ur-caster standing behind a pair of terrifying Bloodthirster, with a supporting cast of Flamers and footsloggers. Tragically, Nick and Matt played each other in the quarter finals, which only served to prevent them from putting up an even more impressive showing.
Evan Tomchin – Tau – 6th Place
The List
Army List - Click to Expand ++ Supreme Command Detachment +2CP (T’au Empire) [8 PL, 150pts, 1CP] ++ + Configuration [2CP] + Detachment Command Cost [2CP] Sept Choice: T’au Sept + Primarch | Daemon Primarch | Supreme Commander [8 PL, 150pts, -1CP] + Commander Shadowsun [8 PL, 150pts, -1CP]: 5. Exemplar of the Kauyon, Advanced Guardian Drone, Command-link Drone, Fletchette Launcher, 2x High-energy Fusion Blaster, Light Missile Pod, Pulse Pistol, Stratagem: Warlord Trait [-1CP], Warlord ++ Patrol Detachment -2CP (T’au Empire) [33 PL, 660pts, 2CP] ++ + Configuration [4CP] + Sept Choice: T’au Sept + HQ [12 PL, 270pts, -2CP] + Aun’Va [4 PL, 100pts]: 2. Sense of Stone, 3. Zephyr’s Grace, 6. Wisdom of the Guides, Aun’Va Commander in Coldstar Battlesuit [8 PL, 170pts, -2CP]: (T’au): Vectored Manoeuvring Thrusters, 1. Precision of the Hunter, Airbursting Fragmentation Projector [10pts], High-output Burst Cannon [15pts], Missile Pod [10pts], Stratagem: Promising Pupil [-1CP], Stratagem: Relic [-1CP], T’au Flamer [5pts], Target Lock, Thermoneutronic Projector [1 PL, 20pts] + Troops [3 PL, 60pts] + Kroot Carnivores [3 PL, 60pts] + Flyer [18 PL, 330pts] + Sun Shark Bomber [9 PL, 165pts]: Markerlight, 2x Missile Pod, 2x Seeker Missile Sun Shark Bomber [9 PL, 165pts]: Markerlight, 2x Missile Pod, 2x Seeker Missile ++ Patrol Detachment -2CP (T’au Empire) [63 PL, 1,188pts, -3CP] ++ + Configuration [-2CP] + Detachment Command Cost [-2CP] Sept Choice: T’au Sept + HQ [17 PL, 300pts, -1CP] + Commander in Crisis Battlesuit [8 PL, 140pts, -1CP]: 6. Exemplar of the Mont’ka, Burst Cannon [10pts], Cyclic Ion Blaster [10pts], DW-02 Advanced Burst Cannon [1 PL, 15pts], Stratagem: Promising Pupil [-1CP], T’au Flamer [5pts], Target Lock Longstrike [9 PL, 160pts]: Railgun + Troops [3 PL, 60pts] + Kroot Carnivores [3 PL, 60pts] + Elites [41 PL, 780pts] + Crisis Battlesuits [20 PL, 375pts] Crisis Battlesuits [21 PL, 405pts] + Fast Attack [2 PL, 48pts] + Kroot Hounds [1 PL, 24pts] Kroot Hounds [1 PL, 24pts] ++ Total: [104 PL, 1,998pts] ++
. 2x Ethereal Guard: 2x Honour Blade
. 10x Kroot [60pts]: 10x Kroot Rifle, 10x Quill Grenades
. 2x Interceptor Drone: 4x Ion Rifle
. 2x Interceptor Drone: 4x Ion Rifle
. 2x Gun Drones
. . 2x Gun Drone: 4x Pulse Carbine
. 10x Kroot [60pts]: 10x Kroot Rifle, 10x Quill Grenades
. Crisis Shas’ui [65pts]: Burst Cannon [5pts], Cyclic Ion Blaster [10pts], Plasma Rifle [10pts], Target Lock
. Crisis Shas’ui [65pts]: Burst Cannon [5pts], Cyclic Ion Blaster [10pts], Plasma Rifle [10pts], Target Lock
. Crisis Shas’ui [65pts]: Burst Cannon [5pts], Cyclic Ion Blaster [10pts], Plasma Rifle [10pts], Target Lock
. Crisis Shas’ui [70pts]: Burst Cannon [5pts], Cyclic Ion Blaster [10pts], Plasma Rifle [10pts], Shield Generator [5pts]
. Crisis Shas’vre [70pts]: Burst Cannon [5pts], Cyclic Ion Blaster [10pts], Plasma Rifle [10pts], Shield Generator [5pts]
. Marker Drone [10pts]: Markerlight
. 2x Shield Drone [30pts]: 2x Shield Generator
. Crisis Shas’ui [70pts]: Airbursting Fragmentation Projector [10pts], Cyclic Ion Blaster [10pts], Plasma Rifle [10pts], Target Lock
. Crisis Shas’ui [70pts]: Airbursting Fragmentation Projector [10pts], Cyclic Ion Blaster [10pts], Plasma Rifle [10pts], Target Lock
. Crisis Shas’ui [70pts]: Airbursting Fragmentation Projector [10pts], Cyclic Ion Blaster [10pts], Plasma Rifle [10pts], Target Lock
. Crisis Shas’ui [75pts]: Airbursting Fragmentation Projector [10pts], Cyclic Ion Blaster [10pts], Plasma Rifle [10pts], Shield Generator [5pts]
. Crisis Shas’vre [2 PL, 90pts]: Airbursting Fragmentation Projector [10pts], Cyclic Ion Blaster [10pts], Internal Grenade Packs [2 PL, 15pts], Plasma Rifle [10pts], Shield Generator [5pts]
. 2x Shield Drone [30pts]: 2x Shield Generator
. 4x Kroot Hound [24pts]: 4x Ripping Fangs
. 4x Kroot Hound [24pts]: 4x Ripping Fangs
Archetype
Heavy Tau Sept
Why it’s Interesting in 9th
Big Crisis Suit teams, Sun Sharks, Commanders and not much else. That’s all it needs though – Tau were very successful at the LVO simply off the back of how brutally they can flatten their opponents, putting multiple players in the top eight, and two more in the Shadow Round, for over a quarter of the undefeated builds after six rounds. The particular thing that stands out in Evan’s build is the choice to bring airbursts on one of the Crisis Teams, which I think is a smart choice for player-placed terrain. With access to Longstrike’s auto-Markerlight and Shadowsun’s re-rolls, you can ensure that they’re still hitting pretty reliably, allowing you to flush out some enemy stragglers at a key moment. A great addition to a well-worn formula, and rewarded with 6th place, eventually getting dropped by the eventual winner Jack. As for Arks – all change. We saw some early Tau builds last week, and they look very different to what we see here, and that’s a trend to keep an eye on as the season gets fully into gear.
Brad Chester – Tau – 7th Place
The List
Army List - Click to Expand ++ Patrol Detachment 0CP (T’au Empire) [80 PL, 4CP, 1,530pts] ++ + Configuration + Sept Choice: Farsight Enclaves + HQ + Commander Farsight [7 PL, -1CP, 130pts]: 6. Exemplar of the Mont’ka, Stratagem: Warlord Trait, Warlord Commander in Coldstar Battlesuit [9 PL, -1CP, 185pts]: 1. Precision of the Hunter, Airbursting Fragmentation Projector, Airbursting Fragmentation Projector, High-output Burst Cannon, Stratagem: Promising Pupil, T’au Flamer, Thermoneutronic Projector + Troops + Kroot Carnivores [3 PL, 60pts] + Elites + Crisis Battlesuits [21 PL, 395pts] Crisis Battlesuits [9 PL, 180pts] + Heavy Support + Riptide Battlesuit [13 PL, 250pts]: 2x Plasma Rifle, Ion Accelerator, Multi-tracker, Target Lock, Velocity Tracker + Flyer + Sun Shark Bomber [9 PL, 165pts]: 2x Missile Pod Sun Shark Bomber [9 PL, 165pts]: 2x Missile Pod ++ Patrol Detachment -2CP (T’au Empire) [23 PL, -3CP, 468pts] ++ + Configuration + Detachment Command Cost [-2CP] Sept Choice: Farsight Enclaves + HQ + Commander in Coldstar Battlesuit [9 PL, -1CP, 180pts]: 5. Exemplar of the Kauyon, Burst Cannon, DW-02 Advanced Burst Cannon, High-output Burst Cannon, Missile Pod, Plasma Rifle, Stratagem: Promising Pupil + Troops + Kroot Carnivores [3 PL, 60pts] + Elites + Crisis Battlesuits [9 PL, 180pts] + Fast Attack + Kroot Hounds [1 PL, 24pts] Kroot Hounds [1 PL, 24pts] ++ Total: [103 PL, 1CP, 1,998pts] ++
. Marker Drone
. 10x Kroot: 10x Kroot Rifle, 10x Quill Grenades
. Crisis Shas’ui: Burst Cannon, Cyclic Ion Blaster, Plasma Rifle, Target Lock
. Crisis Shas’ui: Burst Cannon, Cyclic Ion Blaster, Plasma Rifle, Target Lock
. Crisis Shas’ui: Burst Cannon, Cyclic Ion Blaster, Plasma Rifle, Target Lock
. Crisis Shas’ui: Burst Cannon, Cyclic Ion Blaster, Plasma Rifle, Target Lock
. Crisis Shas’vre: Burst Cannon, Cyclic Ion Blaster, Plasma Rifle, Shield Generator, Stimm Injectors
. Marker Drone
. 3x Shield Drone: 3x Shield Generator
. Crisis Shas’ui: Burst Cannon, Cyclic Ion Blaster, T’au Flamer, Target Lock
. Crisis Shas’ui: Burst Cannon, Cyclic Ion Blaster, T’au Flamer, Target Lock
. Crisis Shas’vre: Burst Cannon, Cyclic Ion Blaster, T’au Flamer, Target Lock
. 2x Interceptor Drone: 4x Ion Rifle
. 2x Interceptor Drone: 4x Ion Rifle
. Marker Drone
. 10x Kroot: 10x Kroot Rifle, 10x Quill Grenades
. Crisis Shas’ui: Burst Cannon, Cyclic Ion Blaster, T’au Flamer, Target Lock
. Crisis Shas’ui: Burst Cannon, Cyclic Ion Blaster, T’au Flamer, Target Lock
. Crisis Shas’vre: Burst Cannon, Cyclic Ion Blaster, T’au Flamer, Target Lock
. 4x Kroot Hound: 4x Ripping Fangs
. 4x Kroot Hound: 4x Ripping Fangs
Archetype
Farsight Alpha Strike
Why it’s Interesting in 9th
The other flavour of Tau, trading out the ability to buff stack on a big Crisis Team for a nastier alpha strike and access to Drop Zone Clear to squeeze big value out of smaller Crisis units. Lethally effective all the way to the quarter finals, where Mike Porter’s Harlequins did what they do best to Tau, but a lot of bodies left in this army’s wake leading up to that.
Jay Eggert – Emperor’s Children – 8th Place
The List
Army List - Click to Expand ++ Battalion Detachment 0CP (Chaos – Chaos Space Marines) [102 PL, 2CP, 2,000pts] ++ + Configuration [6CP] + Legion: Emperor’s Children + HQ [28 PL, -3CP, 490pts] + Daemon Prince with Wings [11 PL, -1CP, 180pts]: Hellforged sword [10pts], Malefic talons, Mantle of Traitors, Mark of Slaanesh [1 PL, 15pts], Prescience, Stratagem: Relic [-1CP], Warlord, Wings [2 PL, 35pts] Lord Discordant on Helstalker [10 PL, -1CP, 190pts]: 1. Flames of Spite, Aspiring Lord [-1CP], Baleflamer, Bladed limbs, Bolt pistol, Frag & Krak grenades, Impaler chainglaive, Mark of Slaanesh [1 PL, 15pts], Mechatendrils, Techno-virus injector Master of Possession [7 PL, -1CP, 120pts]: Bolt pistol, Frag & Krak grenades, Gifts of Chaos [-1CP], Liber Hereticus, Mark of Slaanesh [1 PL, 15pts], Mutated Invigoration, Pact of Flesh, Smite, Staff of Possession + Troops [24 PL, 570pts] + Cultists Mob [2 PL, 50pts] Cultists Mob [2 PL, 50pts] Cultists Mob [2 PL, 50pts] Noise Marines [6 PL, 140pts] Noise Marines [6 PL, 140pts] Noise Marines [6 PL, 140pts] + Elites [22 PL, -1CP, 410pts] + Chosen [15 PL, -1CP, 270pts]: Chaos Icon [5pts], Mark of Slaanesh [1 PL, 15pts] Possessed [7 PL, 140pts] + Fast Attack [18 PL, 350pts] + Chaos Bikers [6 PL, 130pts]: Chaos Icon [5pts], Mark of Slaanesh [1 PL, 15pts] Dreadclaw Drop Pod [6 PL, 115pts]: Blade struts, Thermal jets Venomcrawler [6 PL, 105pts]: 2x Excruciator cannon, Soulflayer tendrils and claws + Dedicated Transport [10 PL, 180pts] + Chaos Terrax-Pattern Termite [10 PL, 180pts]: Termite drill, Terrax melta cutter ++ Total: [102 PL, 2CP, 2,000pts] ++
. 9x Chaos Cultist w/ cultist firearm [45pts]: 9x Cultist firearm, 9x Frag & Krak grenades
. Cultist Champion [5pts]: Cultist firearm, Frag & Krak grenades
. 9x Chaos Cultist w/ cultist firearm [45pts]: 9x Cultist firearm, 9x Frag & Krak grenades
. Cultist Champion [5pts]: Cultist firearm, Frag & Krak grenades
. 9x Chaos Cultist w/ cultist firearm [45pts]: 9x Cultist firearm, 9x Frag & Krak grenades
. Cultist Champion [5pts]: Cultist firearm, Frag & Krak grenades
. Marine w/ blastmaster [36pts]: Blastmaster [15pts], Bolt pistol, Frag & Krak grenades
. 3x Marine w/ sonic blaster [78pts]: 3x Bolt pistol, 3x Frag & Krak grenades, 3x Sonic blaster [15pts]
. Noise Champion [26pts]: Astartes chainsword, Frag & Krak grenades, Sonic blaster [5pts]
. Marine w/ blastmaster [36pts]: Blastmaster [15pts], Bolt pistol, Frag & Krak grenades
. 3x Marine w/ sonic blaster [78pts]: 3x Bolt pistol, 3x Frag & Krak grenades, 3x Sonic blaster [15pts]
. Noise Champion [26pts]: Astartes chainsword, Frag & Krak grenades, Sonic blaster [5pts]
. Marine w/ blastmaster [36pts]: Blastmaster [15pts], Bolt pistol, Frag & Krak grenades
. 3x Marine w/ sonic blaster [78pts]: 3x Bolt pistol, 3x Frag & Krak grenades, 3x Sonic blaster [15pts]
. Noise Champion [26pts]: Astartes chainsword, Frag & Krak grenades, Sonic blaster [5pts]
. Chosen [25pts]: Accursed weapon, Bolt pistol, Boltgun, Frag & Krak grenades
. Chosen [25pts]: Accursed weapon, Bolt pistol, Boltgun, Frag & Krak grenades
. Chosen [25pts]: Accursed weapon, Bolt pistol, Boltgun, Frag & Krak grenades
. Chosen [25pts]: Accursed weapon, Bolt pistol, Boltgun, Frag & Krak grenades
. Chosen [25pts]: Accursed weapon, Bolt pistol, Boltgun, Frag & Krak grenades
. Chosen [25pts]: Accursed weapon, Bolt pistol, Boltgun, Frag & Krak grenades
. Chosen [25pts]: Accursed weapon, Bolt pistol, Boltgun, Frag & Krak grenades
. Chosen Champion [-1CP, 25pts]: Accursed weapon, Black Rune of Damnation, Bolt pistol, Boltgun, Frag & Krak grenades, Trophies of the Long War [-1CP]
. Chosen w/ power fist [25pts]: Bolt pistol, Boltgun, Frag & Krak grenades, Power fist
. Chosen w/ power fist [25pts]: Bolt pistol, Boltgun, Frag & Krak grenades, Power fist
. 4x Possessed [112pts]: 4x Hideous mutations
. Possessed Champion [28pts]: Hideous mutations
. Biker Champion [40pts]: Combi-bolter, Frag & Krak grenades, Power fist [10pts]
. Chaos Biker w/ combi-weapon [35pts]: Astartes chainsword, Combi-melta [5pts], Frag & Krak grenades
. Chaos Biker w/ combi-weapon [35pts]: Astartes chainsword, Combi-melta [5pts], Frag & Krak grenades
. 2 Terrax heavy flamers: 2x Terrax heavy flamer
Archetype
Emperor’s Children
Why it’s Interesting in 9th
How do you adapt Emperor’s Children for a metagame that’s brutally good at killing power armour? Put them in drop pods, obviously! The Chosen or Possessed coming out of the Dreadclaw and using Honour the Prince for a very reliable charge is a very scary thing for opponents to have to play around, keeping the opponent at bay so actual shooty Noise Marine units can lay down some sick beats. Bringing those on in a Terrax (if the Chosen don’t need it) also works very well, as they don’t suffer the move-shoot penalty, and all that comes together to help ensure this army actually gets to use its toys, dealing with one of their key challenges. Chaos Space Marines have had a surprisingly great run in Nephilim and it’s great to see that rounded off here, so big congratulations to Jay for taking the last top eight slot.
The Best of the Rest
There were 7 more players who got through the main portion of the event on 6-0 records, and thus got to clash in the legendary Shadow Round to try and secure a place in the top eight. They were:
- 9th – Nassim Fouchane – Tau: Nassim’s brutal Farsight alpha strike build, with lots of Commanders, two Sun Sharks, two Riptides and one big Crisis unit.
- 10th – Alex Macdougall – Tyranids: Double Flyrant Kraken pressure.
- 11th – Oliver Smith – Blood Angels: Lots of jump packs, backed by some extra shooting punch in the form of drop devastators.
- 12th – Matt Estrada – Tau: Tau Sept with lots of hulls and Commanders, plus one Crisis unit.
- 13th – Ben Jones – Ynnari: Melee Ynnari backed up by D-cannons.
- 14th – Tim Deetlefs – Harlequins: Light Saedath boats & troupes, with two small units of Skyweavers for scoring.
- 15th – TJ Lanigan – Thousand Sons & Daemons: Duplicity & Flamers.
So, how did our predictions hold up? Not bad, but with two misses:
- I slept on Daemons. Falcon had more of an inkling they might make something happen, and so it proved.
- Tau probably should have been in the top category. We wavered back and forth on this, and went the wrong way. The very strong Tau showing on the top tables also suppressed Kraken a bit, and ensured that Knights weren’t really in contention for the win.
Bembel Clash #6
42-player, 5-round Grand Tournament in Hirzenhain, HE DE on January 28 2023. All the lists for this event can be found in Best Coast Pairings.
The Showdown
Matchup & Mission – Conversion
Stefan Härle – Cult Mechanicus: Lucius Horde – it’s back! Loads of Skitarii bodies, now all packing a 5+ invulnerable save, popping off with original strength stratagems, and with small objective grabbing units to go after the massively improved Hidden Archaeovault. + Configuration [6CP] + Arks of Omen Compulsory Type: Fast Attack Battle Size [6CP]: 3. Strike Force (101-200 Total PL / 1001-2000 Points) [6CP] Forge World Choice: Forge World: Lucius Game Type: 5. Chapter Approved: Arks of Omen + HQ [19 PL, -5CP, 345pts] + Skitarii Marshal [3 PL, -2CP, 50pts]: Control Stave, Radium Serpenta, Relic: Exemplar’s Eternity, Stratagem: Relic [-1CP], Stratagem: Warlord Trait [-1CP], Warlord, Warlord Trait (Codex 5): Firepoint Telemetry Cache Tech-Priest Manipulus [6 PL, -1CP, 110pts]: Logi [2 PL, 40pts], Magnarail lance, Manipulus Mechadendrites, Omnissian Staff, Relic: Raiment of the Technomartyr Tech-Priest Manipulus [6 PL, 100pts]: Magi [2 PL, 30pts], Magnarail lance, Manipulus Mechadendrites, Omnissian Staff Technoarcheologist [4 PL, -2CP, 85pts]: Artisans [1 PL, 35pts], Eradication pistol, Relic (Lucius): The Solar Flare, Servo-arc claw, Warlord Trait (Lucius): Luminescent Blessings + Troops [42 PL, 700pts] + Skitarii Rangers [12 PL, 200pts]: Enhanced Data-Tether [5pts], Omnispex [5pts] Skitarii Rangers [12 PL, 200pts]: Enhanced Data-Tether [5pts], Omnispex [5pts] Skitarii Vanguards [12 PL, 200pts]: Enhanced Data-Tether [5pts], Omnispex [5pts] Skitarii Vanguards [3 PL, 50pts] Skitarii Vanguards [3 PL, 50pts] + Elites [12 PL, 197pts] + Sicarian Infiltrators [4 PL, 85pts] Sicarian Ruststalkers [8 PL, 112pts] + Fast Attack [31 PL, 669pts] + Ironstrider Ballistarii [8 PL, 170pts] Ironstrider Ballistarii [8 PL, 170pts] Ironstrider Ballistarii [4 PL, 85pts] Pteraxii Sterylizors [4 PL, 95pts] Pteraxii Sterylizors [4 PL, 95pts] Serberys Raiders [3 PL, 54pts] + Dedicated Transport [5 PL, 85pts] + Skorpius Dunerider [5 PL, 85pts]: 2x Cognis Heavy Stubber, Twin Cognis Heavy Stubber ++ Total: [109 PL, 1CP, 1,996pts] ++
Army List - Click to Expand
++ Arks of Omen Detachment (Imperium – Adeptus Mechanicus) [109 PL, 1CP, 1,996pts] ++
. Stratagem: Archeotech Specialist [-1CP]: Archeotech Specialist [-1CP]
. Stratagem: Archeotech Specialist [-1CP]: Archeotech Specialist [-1CP]
. Stratagem: Mechanicus Locum [-1CP]
. Ranger Alpha [9pts]: Galvanic Rifle, Power sword
. 17x Skitarii Ranger [153pts]: 17x Galvanic Rifle
. 2x Skitarii Ranger (Arc Rifle) [28pts]: 2x Arc Rifle [10pts]
. Ranger Alpha [9pts]: Galvanic Rifle, Power sword
. 17x Skitarii Ranger [153pts]: 17x Galvanic Rifle
. 2x Skitarii Ranger (Arc Rifle) [28pts]: 2x Arc Rifle [10pts]
. 17x Skitarii Vanguard [153pts]: 17x Radium Carbine
. 2x Skitarii Vanguard (Plasma Caliver) [28pts]: 2x Plasma Caliver [10pts]
. Vanguard Alpha [9pts]: Power sword, Radium Carbine
. 3x Skitarii Vanguard [27pts]: 3x Radium Carbine
. Skitarii Vanguard (Plasma Caliver) [14pts]: Plasma Caliver [5pts]
. Vanguard Alpha [9pts]: Radium Carbine
. 3x Skitarii Vanguard [27pts]: 3x Radium Carbine
. Skitarii Vanguard (Plasma Caliver) [14pts]: Plasma Caliver [5pts]
. Vanguard Alpha [9pts]: Radium Carbine
. Infiltrator Princeps (Stub/Sword) [17pts]: Power Sword, Stubcarbine
. 4x Sicarian Infiltrator (Stub/Sword) [68pts]: 4x Power Sword, 4x Stubcarbine
. Ruststalker Princeps (Blades) [16pts]: Chordclaw, Transonic Blades
. 6x Sicarian Ruststalker (Blades) [96pts]: 6x Transonic Blades
. Ironstrider Ballistarius [4 PL, 85pts]: Twin Cognis Lascannon [10pts]
. Ironstrider Ballistarius [4 PL, 85pts]: Twin Cognis Lascannon [10pts]
. Ironstrider Ballistarius [4 PL, 85pts]: Twin Cognis Lascannon [10pts]
. Ironstrider Ballistarius [4 PL, 85pts]: Twin Cognis Lascannon [10pts]
. Ironstrider Ballistarius [4 PL, 85pts]: Twin Cognis Lascannon [10pts]
. 4x Pteraxii Sterylizor [76pts]: 4x Phosphor torch, 4x Pteraxii Talons
. Pteraxii Sterylizor Alpha [19pts]: Flechette Blaster, Pteraxii Talons, Taser Goad
. 4x Pteraxii Sterylizor [76pts]: 4x Phosphor torch, 4x Pteraxii Talons
. Pteraxii Sterylizor Alpha [19pts]: Flechette Blaster, Pteraxii Talons, Taser Goad
. 2x Serberys Raider [36pts]: 2x Cavalry Sabre, 2x Clawed Limbs, 2x Galvanic Carbine
. Serberys Raider Alpha [18pts]: Archeo-revolver, Cavalry Sabre, Clawed Limbs, Galvanic Carbine
vs.
Kalvin Kirchbaumer – Aeldari: Another returning threat here – Hail of Doom uses one of the most potent faction traits ever unleashed to turn Dire Avengers and Windriders into exquisite killing machines, while trade-focused Aspect Warriors keep the opponent at a distance. + Configuration + Arks of Omen Compulsory Type: Elites Craftworld Selection Game Type: 5. Chapter Approved: Arks of Omen + Stratagems + Stratagem: Relics of the Shrines [-1CP] + No Force Org Slot + Seer Council (Unit) [3 PL, 65pts] Seer Council (Unit) [5 PL, 120pts] + HQ + Baharroth [7 PL, 160pts] Farseer [5 PL, 105pts]: 1. Fateful Divergence, 1. Guide, Witchblade Farseer Skyrunner [6 PL, -2CP, 135pts]: 2. Doom, 4. Executioner, 5: Mark of the Incomparable Hunter, Stratagem: Relic, Stratagem: Warlord Trait, Warlord, Witchblade Karandras [7 PL, 150pts] + Troops + Rangers [4 PL, 65pts] + Elites + Dire Avengers [6 PL, 117pts] Dire Avengers [6 PL, 130pts] Dire Avengers [6 PL, 130pts] Howling Banshees [5 PL, 110pts] Striking Scorpions [5 PL, 110pts] + Fast Attack + Shining Spears [6 PL, 125pts] Windriders [12 PL, 270pts] Windriders [4 PL, 60pts] + Dedicated Transport + Wave Serpent [8 PL, 145pts]: Twin Shuriken Cannon, Twin Shuriken Catapult ++ Total: [95 PL, 3CP, 1,997pts] ++
Army List - Click to Expand
++ Arks of Omen Detachment (Aeldari – Craftworlds) [95 PL, 3CP, 1,997pts] ++
. *Far-Flung Craftworld*: Hail of Doom
. Warlock Skyrunners: 1. Conceal/Reveal
. . Warlock Skyrunner: Witchblade
. Warlock Skyrunners: 4. Protect/Jinx, 5. Quicken/Restrain
. . Warlock Skyrunner: Witchblade
. . Warlock Skyrunner: Witchblade
. . Warlock Skyrunner: Witchblade
. Kurnous’ Bow
. 5x Ranger: 5x Ranger Long Rifle, 5x Shuriken Pistol
. 8x Dire Avenger: 8x Avenger Shuriken Catapult, 8x Plasma Grenades
. Dire Avenger Exarch: Two Avenger Shuriken Catapults
. 9x Dire Avenger: 9x Avenger Shuriken Catapult, 9x Plasma Grenades
. Dire Avenger Exarch: Two Avenger Shuriken Catapults
. 9x Dire Avenger: 9x Avenger Shuriken Catapult, 9x Plasma Grenades
. Dire Avenger Exarch: Two Avenger Shuriken Catapults
. 4x Howling Banshee: 4x Banshee Blade, 4x Shuriken Pistol
. Howling Banshee Exarch: Cronescream (Shrine Relic), Mirrorswords, Piercing Strikes
. 4x Striking Scorpion: 4x Mandiblasters, 4x Scorpion Chainsword, 4x Shuriken Pistol
. Striking Scorpion Exarch: Biting Blade, Crushing Blows
. 2x Shining Spear: 2x Laser Lance, 2x Twin Shuriken Catapult
. Shining Spear Exarch: Heartstrike, Khaine’s Lance (Shrine Relic), Paragon Sabre, Shuriken Cannon
. 9x Windrider – Shuriken Cannon: 9x Shuriken Cannon
. 3x Windrider – Twin Shuriken Catapults: 3x Twin Shuriken Catapult
Thoughts
This definitely feels like one of those matchups where there’s a fairly clear trajectory for how the attrition is likely to play out – this AdMech list is very tough for many armies to shift, but Hail of Doom is pretty much perfect for murdering it. However, that’s not the same as the game being a lock, because the AdMech can mostly put themselves into the drivers seat for scoring until that happens. The Craftworlds can pick the Skitarii apart over time, but they have to be pretty cautious about how they do so, using Fire and Fade and Battle Focus to keep their toys safe, and having very few things they’re happy to just leave out in the open on objectives, or throw away for Behind Enemy Lines.
The AdMech also have some nasty punches in reserve to further dissuade the Aeldari from overcommitting – Pteraxii that can come down and smoke an Aspect squad, and of course the Solar Flare for redeploying some of the Skitarii. Add in a near guaranteed 15pts from Archaeovault, which the Aeldari just have no option that really matches, and AdMech have a definite chance here – take that, Banners, and maybe Eradication of Flesh, and ensure that it takes the Aeldari long enough to finish their robot murder that they can’t catch up on the scoring.
What the Aeldari have in their favour to counter that are Phoenix Lords, super strong in this game, the mission Primary rewarding the plan they already want to play, helping them keep pace, and the fact that the AdMech’s third secondary pick is likely to be a little lacklustre – this army technically gives up Assassinate, but that isn’t happening for the Mechanicus here unless there’s a serious blowout on the cards. That’s enough factors that cap just how far ahead the AdMech can pull to give the Craftworld side a good shot at victory, albeit one with very little margin for error – get blown out by even one of the AdMech redeploys or reserve tricks, and there might not be enough elvish assets remaining to seize the game. The result suggests both players took a great shot at this, being a very close game, but the Craftworlds did take the prize.
Result
Aeldari Victory – 12 – 8
Kalvin Kirchbaumer – Aeldari – 1st Place
The List
Army List - Click to Expand + Configuration + Arks of Omen Compulsory Type: Elites Craftworld Selection Game Type: 5. Chapter Approved: Arks of Omen + Stratagems + Stratagem: Relics of the Shrines [-1CP] + No Force Org Slot + Seer Council (Unit) [3 PL, 65pts] Seer Council (Unit) [5 PL, 120pts] + HQ + Baharroth [7 PL, 160pts] Farseer [5 PL, 105pts]: 1. Fateful Divergence, 1. Guide, Witchblade Farseer Skyrunner [6 PL, -2CP, 135pts]: 2. Doom, 4. Executioner, 5: Mark of the Incomparable Hunter, Stratagem: Relic, Stratagem: Warlord Trait, Warlord, Witchblade Karandras [7 PL, 150pts] + Troops + Rangers [4 PL, 65pts] + Elites + Dire Avengers [6 PL, 117pts] Dire Avengers [6 PL, 130pts] Dire Avengers [6 PL, 130pts] Howling Banshees [5 PL, 110pts] Striking Scorpions [5 PL, 110pts] + Fast Attack + Shining Spears [6 PL, 125pts] Windriders [12 PL, 270pts] Windriders [4 PL, 60pts] + Dedicated Transport + Wave Serpent [8 PL, 145pts]: Twin Shuriken Cannon, Twin Shuriken Catapult ++ Total: [95 PL, 3CP, 1,997pts] ++
++ Arks of Omen Detachment (Aeldari – Craftworlds) [95 PL, 3CP, 1,997pts] ++
. *Far-Flung Craftworld*: Hail of Doom
. Warlock Skyrunners: 1. Conceal/Reveal
. . Warlock Skyrunner: Witchblade
. Warlock Skyrunners: 4. Protect/Jinx, 5. Quicken/Restrain
. . Warlock Skyrunner: Witchblade
. . Warlock Skyrunner: Witchblade
. . Warlock Skyrunner: Witchblade
. Kurnous’ Bow
. 5x Ranger: 5x Ranger Long Rifle, 5x Shuriken Pistol
. 8x Dire Avenger: 8x Avenger Shuriken Catapult, 8x Plasma Grenades
. Dire Avenger Exarch: Two Avenger Shuriken Catapults
. 9x Dire Avenger: 9x Avenger Shuriken Catapult, 9x Plasma Grenades
. Dire Avenger Exarch: Two Avenger Shuriken Catapults
. 9x Dire Avenger: 9x Avenger Shuriken Catapult, 9x Plasma Grenades
. Dire Avenger Exarch: Two Avenger Shuriken Catapults
. 4x Howling Banshee: 4x Banshee Blade, 4x Shuriken Pistol
. Howling Banshee Exarch: Cronescream (Shrine Relic), Mirrorswords, Piercing Strikes
. 4x Striking Scorpion: 4x Mandiblasters, 4x Scorpion Chainsword, 4x Shuriken Pistol
. Striking Scorpion Exarch: Biting Blade, Crushing Blows
. 2x Shining Spear: 2x Laser Lance, 2x Twin Shuriken Catapult
. Shining Spear Exarch: Heartstrike, Khaine’s Lance (Shrine Relic), Paragon Sabre, Shuriken Cannon
. 9x Windrider – Shuriken Cannon: 9x Shuriken Cannon
. 3x Windrider – Twin Shuriken Catapults: 3x Twin Shuriken Catapult
Archetype
Hail of Doom
Thoughts
Hail blasts back onto the scene right out the gate here, taking full advantage of how generous the Arks of Omen listbuilding rules are to Aeldari, and being particularly well-placed to obliterate any hordey armies that show up, as the final proved. The departure of Armour of Contempt also makes the trade pieces in the army just that bit more reliable in a lot of matchups, creating a very strong build. Craftworlds had a pretty great week overall, and Kalvin’s win here is a definite standout among that.
The Best of the Rest
There were 4 more players on 4-1 records. They were:
- 2nd – Ares Lüthi – Creations of Bile: A hilarious new spin on Creations of Bile that brings Skarbrand in a Daemon patrol to lock enemies in combat with the many Possessed. Power move.
- 3rd – Stefan Härle – Adeptus Mechanicus: Lucius infantry horde, backed by a few Ironstriders to blow stuff up and Pteraxii for objective play.
- 4th – Pascal Haberstroh – Dark Angels: Lots of herohammer, a big brick each of Deathwing Terminators and Black Knights, then Ravenwing ATVs and Thunderstrikes to blase opponents to bits. Scary stuff (and undefeated, taking three wins and two draws).
Da Bolton Waaagh 2023
35-player, 5-round Grand Tournament in Horwich, England GB on January 28 2023. All the lists for this event can be found in Best Coast Pairings.
Adam Lane – Grey Knights – 1st Place
The List
Army List - Click to Expand Secondaries: ======================= + HQ + Brotherhood Librarian [7 PL, 110pts, -1CP]: Purifying Flame, Vortex of Doom, Psychic Epitome, A Noble Death, Combi-melta, Sword Brotherhood Techmarine [4 PL, 70pts, -1CP]: Gate of Infinity, Divination, Warlord Castellan Crowe [5 PL, 85pts]: Vortex of Doom, Purifying Flame Grand Master in Nemesis Dreadknight [11 PL, 230pts, -1CP]: Gate of Infinity, Empyric Amplification, Unyielding Anvil, Dreadfist, Dreadknight teleporter, Gatling Psilencer, Heavy Psycannon, Nemesis Greatsword, Servant of the Throne, Sigil of Exigence + Troops + 5x Strike Squad [6 PL, 100pts] 5x Strike Squad [6 PL, 100pts] + Elites + 4x Servitors [2 PL, 30pts] + Fast Attack + Interceptor Squad [16 PL, 240pts] Interceptor Squad [16 PL, 240pts] Interceptor Squad [16 PL, 240pts] + Heavy Support + Nemesis Dreadknight [8 PL, 185pts]: Dreadfist, Dreadknight teleporter, Gatling Psilencer, Heavy Psycannon, Nemesis Greatsword Nemesis Dreadknight [8 PL, 185pts]: Dreadfist, Dreadknight teleporter, Gatling Psilencer, Heavy Psycannon, Nemesis Greatsword Nemesis Dreadknight [8 PL, 185pts]: Dreadfist, Dreadknight teleporter, Gatling Psilencer, Heavy Psycannon, Nemesis Greatsword ==== END ROSTER ====
Player: Adam (“the Grandmaster”) Lane
Army: The Knights of Titan
Sub-faction: Prescient Brethren
Points: 2000
Starting CP: 3
Compulsory type: Fast Attack
Power Level: 3000
Abhor = 28-34VP (don’t pick this)
No prisoners = 9VP (84 wounds)
Bring it down = 8VP
Assassinate = 13VP
Grind = 13-16 potential units
(Sword and Bolters)
(Sword and Bolters)
10x Interceptor (Sword and Bolters)
10x Interceptor (Sword and Bolters)
10x Interceptor (Sword and Bolters)
Archetype
Prescient Brethren Dreadknights and Interceptors
Final Round Matchup
95 – 78 Victory against Dan Fearis – Space Wolves.
Thoughts
Speaking of factions that had a great weekend – Grey Knights are also back. Dreadknights! And! Interceptors! Good units, it turns out, and now you’re free to cut down on troops to squeeze more in, creating a speedy and punchy build that’s extremely good at reaping advantage from the souped-up new version of Teleport Strike. Combining that with Behind Enemy Lines and Purifying Ritual creates a dauntingly powerful scoring plan, and unlike some of those we’ve seen in the past it’s attached to a build that’s more than capable of just bowling opponents off the table to boot. The army is far from uncounterable, and you can certainly build so that you’ve got ways to counterpunch it, but with multiple strong finishes this weekend, the Knights of Titan look like a serious metagame player once more. Congratulations to Adam.
The Best of the Rest
There were 5 more players on X-1 records. They were:
- 2nd – Dan Fearis – Space Wolves: Many terrifying, tooled up vikings here, including thundercav, Skyclaws with fancy equipment, a big Wolf Guard Terminator squad, and Wulfen + Characters to finish.
- 3rd – Mikey Herbert – Iron Hands Successors: Artisans/Whirlwind Hands with melta Sternguard, VanVets, and loads of Devastators/Eradicators.
- 4th – Tom Higginbottom – Orks: Goff infantry pressure with lots of Stormboyz and Kommandos, plus two Battlewagons rammed full of Nobz and Beast Snaggas.
- 5th – Michael Duff – Iron Hands Successors: More Artisans/Whirlwind hands, again with lots of devastators and Eradicators, but also the super Contemptor and several units of tooled-up Scouts.
- 6th – Adam Watson – Adeptus Mechanicus: Mars with tonnes of chicken walkers – 2×4 Ironstriders and a big Dragoon unit.
Oxford Onslaught
35-player, 5-round Grand Tournament in Drayton, England GB on January 28 2023. All the lists for this event can be found in Best Coast Pairings.
Clement Tournade – Ynnari – 1st Place
The List
Army List - Click to Expand + Configuration + Arks of Omen Compulsory Type: Fast Attack Craftworld Selection: Ynnari: Strength From Death Game Type: 5. Chapter Approved: Arks of Omen + Stratagems + Stratagem: Relics of the Shrines [-1CP] Stratagem: Seer Council [-1CP] + No Force Org Slot + Seer Council (Unit) [5 PL, 135pts] + HQ + Farseer [5 PL, 105pts, -1CP]: 1. Fateful Divergence, 1: Ambush of Blades, 6. Ancestors’ Grace (Blessing), Seer Council (Farseer), Stratagem: Warlord Trait, Warlord, Witchblade Shadowseer [5 PL, 100pts]: 3. Mirror of Minds (Witchfire), 5. Shield of Ynnead (Blessing), Shuriken Pistol The Yncarne [13 PL, 260pts] + Troops + Rangers [4 PL, 65pts] Rangers [4 PL, 65pts] Troupe [9 PL, 157pts] Troupe [9 PL, 152pts] + Elites + Howling Banshees [5 PL, 110pts] Striking Scorpions [5 PL, 110pts] Warlock Skyrunners [3 PL, 65pts]: 2. Embolden/Horrify + Fast Attack + Hellions [8 PL, 153pts]: 1 – Adrenalight (Combat Drug), As Detachment (Wych Cult) Hellions [4 PL, 85pts]: 3 – Hypex (Combat Drug), As Detachment (Wych Cult) Swooping Hawks [8 PL, 250pts] Vypers [3 PL, 40pts] + Dedicated Transport + Wave Serpent [8 PL, 145pts]: Twin Scatter Laser, Twin Shuriken Catapult ++ Total: [98 PL, 1,997pts, 3CP] ++
++ Arks of Omen Detachment (Aeldari – Craftworlds) [98 PL, 1,997pts, 3CP] ++
. Warlock Skyrunners: 4. Protect/Jinx, 5. Quicken/Restrain, Seer Council (Warlocks Unit)
. . Warlock Skyrunner: Singing Spear
. . Warlock Skyrunner: Singing Spear
. . Warlock Skyrunner: Singing Spear
. 5x Ranger: 5x Ranger Long Rifle, 5x Shuriken Pistol
. 5x Ranger: 5x Ranger Long Rifle, 5x Shuriken Pistol
. Lead Player: Harlequin’s Blade, Shuriken Pistol
. Player: Harlequin’s Caress, Shuriken Pistol
. Player: Harlequin’s Embrace, Shuriken Pistol
. Player: Harlequin’s Kiss, Shuriken Pistol
. Player: Harlequin’s Kiss, Shuriken Pistol
. Player: Harlequin’s Kiss, Shuriken Pistol
. Player: Harlequin’s Kiss, Shuriken Pistol
. Player: Harlequin’s Kiss, Shuriken Pistol
. Player: Harlequin’s Kiss, Shuriken Pistol
. Lead Player: Harlequin’s Blade, Shuriken Pistol
. Player: Harlequin’s Caress, Shuriken Pistol
. Player: Harlequin’s Embrace, Shuriken Pistol
. Player: Harlequin’s Kiss, Shuriken Pistol
. Player: Harlequin’s Kiss, Shuriken Pistol
. Player: Harlequin’s Kiss, Shuriken Pistol
. Player: Harlequin’s Kiss, Shuriken Pistol
. Player: Harlequin’s Kiss, Shuriken Pistol
. Player: Harlequin’s Blade, Shuriken Pistol
. 4x Howling Banshee: 4x Banshee Blade, 4x Shuriken Pistol
. Howling Banshee Exarch: Cronescream (Shrine Relic), Mirrorswords, Piercing Strikes
. 4x Striking Scorpion: 4x Mandiblasters, 4x Scorpion Chainsword, 4x Shuriken Pistol
. Striking Scorpion Exarch: Biting Blade, Crushing Blows
. Warlock Skyrunner: Witchblade
. Helliarch: Hellglaive
. 8x Hellion: 8x Hellglaive, 8x Splinter Pods
. Helliarch: Hellglaive
. 4x Hellion: 4x Hellglaive, 4x Splinter Pods
. 9x Swooping Hawk: 9x Lasblaster
. Swooping Hawk Exarch: Lasblaster, The Phoenix Plume (Shrine Relic)
. Vyper w/ Scatter Laser
Archetype
Melee Ynnari
Final Round Matchup
78 – 76 Victory against Matt Tabor – Grey Knights.
Thoughts
Clement has been rocking events with his Ynnari for a while, and the liberation of the Arks detachment plus access to Craftworld Secondaries only makes them better. Two things really stand out in this list.
First up, Hellions. These are fantastic in Ynnari, but the constraints you used to be under for army construction made them hard to take, as you ended up either paying heavily in Troop Tax or Detachment CP to get the stuff you really wanted. Now that having four each of Troops and Fast Attack is an option, as here, you can go wild with them – buff them up with Shield of Ynnead, Ambush of Blades, and whatever other powers you feel like chucking on them, and they’ll brutally murder whatever they touch, while also pushing deep into the opponent’s lines and threatening to summon the Yncarne. Add pressure from the Harlequins too, and it becomes very hard to get into the driver’s seat against this army, letting it run away with the game while taking huge chunks out of enemy armies.
The other thing, of course, is that even as an Aeldari player it gives me no pleasure to report that Swooping Hawks are still usable in a GT winning list at 25pts per model. I think that’ll mostly be an Ynnari thing, as they’re a bit less reliant on buffs to push chip damage through than other Craftworld options, but Ynnead help us if they start showing up everywhere again. That doesn’t stop this being an absurdly cool list to see taking down an event – well done Clement!
The Best of the Rest
There were 5 more players on 4-1 records. They were:
- 2nd – Byron Sidhu – Chaos Daemons: Be’lakor and lots of bodies, including Troops, Flesh Hounds and Flamers.
- 3rd – Alex Fowler – Adeptus Custodes: Bike and Warden heavy Shadowkeepers, with three solo Allarus providing great BEL reach.
- 4th – Matt Tabor – Grey Knights: Prescient Brethren Dreadknights and Interceptors – they’re back.
- 5th – Chris Ryder – Grey Knights: …as are Swordbearers Dreadknight and Interceptors. Both lists also ran a single Purgation squad, presumably as a tool you’re willing to sacrifice or hold in deep strike to score a turn of Teleport Strike.
- 6th – Denis Naberezhnykh – Necrons: Nihilakh with the Silent King, a single big Warrior unit and plenty of the ObSec classics. Being able to take one big Warrior unit without otherwise worrying about troop tax is definitely powerful.
DZTV Warhammer 40,000 GT Jan 2023
34-player, 5-round Grand Tournament in Sutton Veny, England GB on January 28 2023. All the lists for this event can be found in Best Coast Pairings.
The Showdown
Matchup & Mission – Data-Scry Salvage
George Crabtree – Chaos Daemons: Be’lakor takes charge, bringing his Shadow Lord Warlord trait to make Flamers almost as nasty as they were pre-Arks, and providing a Warp Locus for Skarbrand to check in. While those two and their Flamer friends keeping the opponent scared, a bunch of Heralds and infantry cause mischief and confound the enemy. + Configuration + Arks of Omen Compulsory Type: Elites Chaos Allegiance: Chaos Undivided Game Type: 5. Chapter Approved: Arks of Omen + HQ + Fluxmaster [6 PL, 115pts, -1CP]: Infernal Flames, Relics of the Impossible Fortress, Shrouded Step, Staff of change, The Endless Grimoire Skarbrand [17 PL, 330pts] Skulltaker [6 PL, 110pts] Tranceweaver [4 PL, 70pts]: Hysterical Frenzy + Troops + Daemonettes [6 PL, 120pts] Daemonettes [6 PL, 120pts] Daemonettes [6 PL, 120pts] Nurglings [3 PL, 60pts] Nurglings [3 PL, 60pts] + Elites + Exalted Flamer [4 PL, 75pts] Flamers [6 PL, 150pts]: Pyrocaster Flamers [6 PL, 150pts]: Pyrocaster Flamers [6 PL, 100pts]: Pyrocaster ++ Supreme Command Detachment 0CP (Chaos – Daemons) [21 PL, 420pts, -1CP] ++ + Configuration + Chaos Allegiance: Chaos Undivided + Primarch | Daemon Primarch | Supreme Commander + Be’lakor [21 PL, 420pts, -1CP]: Pall of Despair, Shadow Lord, Shrouded Step, Stratagem: Warlord Trait, Warlord ++ Total: [100 PL, 4CP, 2,000pts] ++
Army List - Click to Expand
++ Arks of Omen Detachment (Chaos – Daemons) [79 PL, 1,580pts, 5CP] ++
. 9x Daemonette: 9x Piercing claws
. 9x Daemonette: 9x Piercing claws
. 9x Daemonette: 9x Piercing claws
. 3x Nurgling Swarms: 3x Diseased claws and teeth
. 3x Nurgling Swarms: 3x Diseased claws and teeth
. 5x Flamer: 5x Flickering flames
. 5x Flamer: 5x Flickering flames
. 3x Flamer: 3x Flickering flames
vs.
Matt Arvida – Ravenwing: Go fast and shoot things. A lot. Melta everywhere, loads of Black Knights, great herohammer – classic Ravenwing things. Also, surprisingly, a Dark Talon, providing a bit of threat out of deep strike. + Configuration + **Chapter Selector**: Dark Angels Arks of Omen Compulsory Type: Fast Attack Game Type: 5. Chapter Approved: Arks of Omen + HQ + Primaris Chaplain on Bike [8 PL, -2CP, 135pts]: 4. Mantra of Strength, 5. Recitation of Focus, Chapter Command: Master of Sanctity, Litany of Hate, Mace of Redemption, Stratagem: Hero of the Chapter, Stratagem: Relic of the Chapter, Wise Orator Ravenwing Talonmaster [9 PL, -2CP, 160pts]: Arbiter’s Gaze, Rites of War, Stratagem: Relic, Stratagem: Warlord Trait, Warlord Sammael [8 PL, 135pts] + Elites + Ravenwing Apothecary [6 PL, -1CP, 120pts]: Chapter Command: Chief Apothecary, Selfless Healer, Stratagem: Hero of the Chapter Ravenwing Black Knights [18 PL, 300pts] Ravenwing Black Knights [12 PL, 150pts] + Fast Attack + Bike Squad [7 PL, 120pts] Bike Squad [7 PL, 120pts] Bike Squad [7 PL, 130pts] Land Speeder Tornadoes [12 PL, 210pts] Land Speeder Tornadoes [8 PL, 140pts] Ravenwing Darkshroud [7 PL, 110pts]: Heavy bolter + Flyer + Ravenwing Dark Talon [10 PL, 170pts] ++ Total: [119 PL, 1CP, 2,000pts] ++
Army List - Click to Expand
++ Arks of Omen Detachment (Imperium – Adeptus Astartes – Dark Angels) [119 PL, 1CP, 2,000pts] ++
. Black Knight Bike: Astartes grenade launcher
. Ravenwing Black Knight: Corvus Hammer
. Ravenwing Black Knight: Corvus Hammer
. Ravenwing Black Knight: Corvus Hammer
. Ravenwing Black Knight: Corvus Hammer
. Ravenwing Black Knight: Corvus Hammer
. Ravenwing Black Knight: Corvus Hammer
. Ravenwing Black Knight: Corvus Hammer
. Ravenwing Black Knight: Corvus Hammer
. Ravenwing Black Knight: Corvus Hammer
. Ravenwing Huntmaster: Corvus Hammer
. Ravenwing Black Knight: Corvus Hammer
. Ravenwing Black Knight: Corvus Hammer
. Ravenwing Black Knight: Corvus Hammer
. Ravenwing Black Knight: Corvus Hammer
. Ravenwing Huntmaster: Corvus Hammer
. Attack Bike: Heavy bolter
. Biker Sergeant: Combi-melta
. Space Marine Biker w/Special Weapon: Meltagun
. Space Marine Biker w/Special Weapon: Meltagun
. Attack Bike: Heavy bolter
. Biker Sergeant: Combi-flamer
. Space Marine Biker w/Special Weapon: Flamer
. Space Marine Biker w/Special Weapon: Flamer
. Attack Bike: Multi-melta
. Biker Sergeant: Combi-melta
. Space Marine Biker w/Special Weapon: Meltagun
. Space Marine Biker w/Special Weapon: Meltagun
. Land Speeder Tornado: Assault cannon, Multi-melta
. Land Speeder Tornado: Assault cannon, Multi-melta
. Land Speeder Tornado: Assault cannon, Multi-melta
. Land Speeder Tornado: Assault cannon, Multi-melta
. Land Speeder Tornado: Assault cannon, Multi-melta
Thoughts
This Ravenwing list is terrifying in the alpha strike potential it presents – thanks to the Dark Angels superdoctrine, it’s got spectacular reach out of the gates, and enough firepower tuned for both hordes and big targets to make the early game count, and to very rapidly max Codex Warfare against almost any opponent.
Almost, being the operative word there, as unfortunately the Daemons list here is about as resilient against this plan as it’s possible to be, and very ready to punish the Unforgiven if they try. Flamers with full re-rolls will do nasty work against Bikes and Land Speeders alike, while tanking most of the incoming firepower. Quite a few of the Dark Angels threats are also not CORE, so the Descending Shadow Warpstorm effect is unusually potent in blunting their output.
This presents something of a problem for the Ravenwing, as on this mission they really need to be depleting the opponents tools quickly. They’re durable against shooting, but they’re not built for contesting a wide front without being able to smash one of their opponent’s flanks, and the risk of that just flatly not happening here is very high. There are also so many mobility tricks in the Daemon list that they can deploy pretty conservatively and zoom out at speed via teleports and the raw movement of some of their units. They also have much better passive scoring plans – Space Marine secondaries are considerably improved, but demand some things of the Ravenwing that they aren’t well placed to do here, especially if they go first. Meanwhile, Daemons have an easy ride on Reality Rebels and Warp Ritual, and this mission is one where it’s very easy for them to pull off a back-loaded spike on Despoilers of Reality to boot. Bluntly, this looks like a game where the Ravenwing’s only route to keeping pace on scoring is to try and do something that’s very likely to go wrong and result in their untimely demise. They’ve still got to try it, but most of the time such games go only one way, and so it proved here.
Result
Chaos Daemons Victory – 90 – 51
George Crabtree – Chaos Daemons – 1st Place
The List
Army List - Click to Expand + Configuration + Arks of Omen Compulsory Type: Elites Chaos Allegiance: Chaos Undivided Game Type: 5. Chapter Approved: Arks of Omen + HQ + Fluxmaster [6 PL, 115pts, -1CP]: Infernal Flames, Relics of the Impossible Fortress, Shrouded Step, Staff of change, The Endless Grimoire Skarbrand [17 PL, 330pts] Skulltaker [6 PL, 110pts] Tranceweaver [4 PL, 70pts]: Hysterical Frenzy + Troops + Daemonettes [6 PL, 120pts] Daemonettes [6 PL, 120pts] Daemonettes [6 PL, 120pts] Nurglings [3 PL, 60pts] Nurglings [3 PL, 60pts] + Elites + Exalted Flamer [4 PL, 75pts] Flamers [6 PL, 150pts]: Pyrocaster Flamers [6 PL, 150pts]: Pyrocaster Flamers [6 PL, 100pts]: Pyrocaster ++ Supreme Command Detachment 0CP (Chaos – Daemons) [21 PL, 420pts, -1CP] ++ + Configuration + Chaos Allegiance: Chaos Undivided + Primarch | Daemon Primarch | Supreme Commander + Be’lakor [21 PL, 420pts, -1CP]: Pall of Despair, Shadow Lord, Shrouded Step, Stratagem: Warlord Trait, Warlord ++ Total: [100 PL, 4CP, 2,000pts] ++
++ Arks of Omen Detachment (Chaos – Daemons) [79 PL, 1,580pts, 5CP] ++
. 9x Daemonette: 9x Piercing claws
. 9x Daemonette: 9x Piercing claws
. 9x Daemonette: 9x Piercing claws
. 3x Nurgling Swarms: 3x Diseased claws and teeth
. 3x Nurgling Swarms: 3x Diseased claws and teeth
. 5x Flamer: 5x Flickering flames
. 5x Flamer: 5x Flickering flames
. 3x Flamer: 3x Flickering flames
Archetype
Uhhhh I haven’t thought of one yet, so since George absolutely dumpestered me in round three, I’m giving this an interim name of the Wingclipper 9000
Thoughts
This list is very, very powerful, and looks extremely well placed for a metagame where being able to survive a Dark Angels alpha strike and kick the stuffing out of elves looks pretty important. Needing to take Shadow Lord on Be’lakor cuts you off from some of the Warlord setups that people have been using in Nephilim, but keeping Flamers as a true alpha threat is so important that it’s very much worth it. Be’lakor and Skarbrand are, of course, terrifying killers as well, and I can attest that when this list starts going, you begin losing your army with shocking speed. Well done to George on the win – between this and LVO, I am no longer sleeping on Daemons.
The Best of the Rest
There were 5 more players on 4-1 records. They were:
- 2nd – Jay Seebarun – Dark Angels: Mostly Ravenwing speedy shooting threats, plus Infiltrators, lots of herohammer and a single Deathwing squad with fancy toys.
- 3rd – Miriam Hall – Grey Knights: Prescient Brethren Dreadknights and Interceptors, bringing a Rhino along for staging either the Interceptors or a Purgation Squad.
- 4th – James “One_Wing” Grover – Asuryani: It’s me, ya boi. Wraithknight Ulthwe nonsense. See below.
- 5th – Matt Arvida – Dark Angels: See showdown.
- 6th – Rowan Farmer – Asuryani: Hail of Doom with loads of Windriders, Dire Avengers and Shroud Runners, plus a Twilight Patrol for cheap counter-charge threats and the super Death Jester.
Wraithknight Corner
It’s that time again – my largest robot son is getting some exercise for the first time this edition. Arks freeing up your list construction options as Craftworlds while also letting the Wraithknight pick up the handy Ulthwe Craftworld trait (providing much-needed resilience against Mortal Wounds) was enough of a lure for me to put my favourite unit on the table. Is it the best way to spend >400pts in Craftworlds? Absolutely not, but it is one of the most enjoyable, and as you can see above, it went pretty well!
Well enough, in fact, that I’m going to take him out again for Beachhead Brawl in a few weeks, so I thought I’d chuck the list in here and quickly talk about what worked and what I’m changing.
Army List - Click to Expand ++ Arks of Omen Detachment (Aeldari – Craftworlds) [102 PL, 2,000pts, 3CP] ++ + Configuration + Arks of Omen Compulsory Type: Fast Attack Craftworld Selection: Ulthwe: Foresight of the Damned + HQ + Avatar of Khaine [14 PL, 280pts]: Wailing Doom Baharroth [7 PL, 160pts]: Fury of the Tempest, The Shining Blade Eldrad Ulthran [8 PL, 145pts, -1CP]: 1. Guide, 2. Doom, 3. Fortune, Shuriken Pistol, Smite, Stratagem: Warlord Trait, The Staff of Ulthamar & Witchblade, Ulthwe: Fate Reader, Warlord + Troops + Rangers [4 PL, 65pts] Rangers [4 PL, 65pts] + Elites + Howling Banshees [5 PL, 110pts] Striking Scorpions [5 PL, 110pts] Warlocks [2 PL, 45pts, -2CP]: 4. Protect/Jinx, 6: Seer of the Shifting Vector, Smite, Stratagem: Champion of the Aeldari, Stratagem: Relic + Fast Attack + Shroud Runners [5 PL, 90pts] Vypers [3 PL, 40pts] Warp Spiders [6 PL, 135pts] + Heavy Support + Wraithseer [8 PL, 170pts]: 5. Quicken/Restrain, D-cannon, Ghostspear, Smite + Dedicated Transport + Wave Serpent [8 PL, 145pts]: Twin Shuriken Cannon, Twin Shuriken Catapult + Lord of War + Wraithknight [23 PL, 440pts]: Heavy Wraithcannon, 2x Scatter Laser, Titanic Feet, Titanic Ghostglaive ++ Total: [102 PL, 3CP, 2,000pts] ++
. 5x Ranger: 5x Ranger Long Rifle, 5x Shuriken Pistol
. 5x Ranger: 5x Ranger Long Rifle, 5x Shuriken Pistol
. 4x Howling Banshee: 4x Banshee Blade, 4x Shuriken Pistol
. Howling Banshee Exarch: Mirrorswords, Piercing Strikes
. 4x Striking Scorpion: 4x Mandiblasters, 4x Scorpion Chainsword, 4x Shuriken Pistol
. Striking Scorpion Exarch: Biting Blade, Crushing Blows, Mandiblasters
. Faolchu’s Wing: Treasures of the Aeldari Relic
. Warlock: Shuriken Pistol, Witchblade
. 3x Shroud Runner: 3x Ranger Long Rifle, 3x Scatter Laser, 3x Shuriken Pistol
. Vyper w/ Scatter Laser: Scatter Laser, Twin Shuriken Catapult
. 4x Warp Spider: 4x Death Spinner
. Warp Spider Exarch: Two Death Spinners & Powerblades, Web of Deceit
The theory here is that if you’re taking one big threat (the Wraithknight) then packing a second one alongside it (the Avatar) helps over-saturate your opponents killing potential, and gives you a good window to punish any stumbles they might make. Trade Aspects, Baharroth and harrassment from Shroud Runners and Scorpions round things out. You also have the option to stick the Wraithknight in Strategic Reserves if you think the opponent can alpha it, at which point the army hides well, and you can use a Strands dice out of reserves to give you a good shot at making a charge..
This all, honestly, worked pretty well. I played against:
- Horde AdMech, where I was able to fend off the targets in front of me, and the Wraithknight out of reserves proved too much of a hammer blow.
- Tau, where the Avatar and main body of my force fought a grinding battle against suits on one flank, but the Wraithknight was able to smash the other while the Tau were occupied.
- George’s Daemons, which did not go well.
- Grey Knights, where the Wraithknight was able to keep the Dreadknights occupied for long enough to allow my other tools to roll a flank.
- Thousand Sons and Daemons, which played out similarly – committing enough tools to the centre to face down the Wraithknight let me counterpunch them while picking up lots of scoring on the flank.
In terms of what worked, the trade Aspects and Baharroth were as good as ever, Shroud Runners are wild at 90pts for the unit, and the Avatar and Wraithknight pushing up the board together did feel strong. Conversely, the Warp Spiders, surprisingly, only felt OK here, and that’s because the list naturally pushed conflict towards the enemy, and has a harder time landing Doom than most since it’s only on poor footslogging Eldrad. The big gun on the Knight also wasn’t worth it – I think the psychological impact of its presence did more damage than the Wraithcannon did, and going cheaper and having a 4+ save from the Scattershield would have been superior. Finally, the Wraithseer was perfectly good, and I love him, but he’s very much “on the table” at the point you’re making changes to the list, as he’s not quite the most point efficient way to get those capabilities down.
That provides a maximum of 345pts of flex to play with – 30-40pts off the Wraithknight (I’m honestly more attached to the scatter lasers than the big gun), 135 from the Spiders, 170 from the Seer. With that, we ideally want:
- Retain a Quicken caster, as being able to do Warp Ritual is mandatory, unless we pack an alternative option.
- Better support for Behind Enemy Lines.
- Maybe a little more melee punch if at all possible.
My current feeling is that the best way to achieve this is with a Twilight Harlequin patrol. Options I’m looking at include:
Troupe Master, Cegorach’s Rose, Foot in the Future – 85
Troupe with 5x melee – 90
Troupe with 5x melee – 90
Warlock Skyrunner – 65
Change Foot Warlock to 2-model Seer Council – 5
Keep Scatter Lasers – 10
Change Doom to Fateful Divergence
Main drawback of that is the complete loss of D-cannon access, or indeed any big guns at all – Strands of Fate means that having one D-cannon in your list is very good, as you can use auto-dice to lock in a reliable punch. With that in mind, the alternative I’m considering is to go a little less deep on Harlequins, instead taking:
Troupe Master, Cegorach’s Rose, Foot in the Future – 85
Troupe with 4x melee – 85
Vyper – 40
Warlock Skyrunner – 65
Change Foot Warlock to 2-model Seer Council – 5
D-Cannon Platform – 65
Change Doom to Fateful Divergence
While not being able to find 5 more pts for the last melee weapon is driving me crazy, I am currently leaning towards the second option, as it feels like it provides just that bit more flexibility, but I do like some of what the first one does too. The agony of choice. I guess you’ll find out which I pick in a few weeks!
Wrap Up
It’s all Arks all the time from next week – will the Craftworlds and Grey Knights keep their early lead as the American scene joins the fray in earnest? Tune in to find out.
