It’s back! As the year draws to a close, it’s time to update the Goonhammer Competitive 40K Tier List, taking a look at where the factions sit at the end of 2021, and as we go into the final stretch for the current set of missions. We’re also about a month and a half on from the publication of the first Balance Dataslate, and that’s definitely been enough time for its impact to sink in. Six weeks out from a balance update seems like a reasonable point to aim future updates of this list for – not having a clear schedule is one of the reasons I’ve not managed to publish new versions as often as I’d like, so putting a line in the sand will definitely help.

So, with 2021 the year coming to an end, but the big season finale of the 2021 season still coming up, how are 40K’s factions looking? Let’s dig in.

This piece is a companion to the end of 2021 Meta Analysis posted earlier today, so you probably want to go have a look at that if you haven’t already!

What Has Changed Since the Last Tier List?

A number of factors can influence faction rankings, mostly coming under three headings:

New Rules: Games Workshop releasing new books or rules changes can increase or decrease a faction’s power.
Innovation: Players come up with a new angle on a faction that substantially changes its fortunes.
Metagame Shifts: Even if a faction’s rules stay the same, shifts in popularity of other armies can impact on its performance if it has strong or weak matchups against them.

It’s been eight months since the last Tier List update, so what has relased in that time? Quite a bit, unsurprisingly.

Codexes
- (Drukhari – out but unrated last time as they were so new)
- Adeptus Mechanicus
- Adepta Sororitas
- Orks
- Grey Knights
- Thousand Sons
- Black Templars
Campaign Books
- War Zone Charadon I
  - Cult of Strife
  - House Raven
  - Metalica
  - Freeblade Lance
  - Terminus Est Assault Force
- War Zone Charadon II
  - Be’lakor and his disciples.
  - The Order of Our Martyred Lady
  - Skitarii Veteran Cohort
- War Zone Octarius I
  - Hive Fleet Leviathan
  - Synaptic Links
  - Kill Team Strike Force
  - Cadians
- War Zone Octarius II
  - Blood Axes
  - Ork Speed Mob
  - Astra Cartographica
Other Rules
- GT2021
- Munitorum Field Manual 2021 Mk2
- Balance Dataslate
- A small number of White Dwarf rules

How the Tier List Works

How Factions are Rated

The Goonhammer Tier list is primarily rating each faction’s ability to win events. The top rated armies are those that are powerful enough to win games, and consistent enough at doing so that they can navigate through six rounds of play at a major and emerge triumphant. The primary data used to sort factions is the information I gather by reviewing event results every week for Competitive Innovations. As part of producing the column, I look at every single army list that racks up an X-1 or better record at the majority of events that take place around the world, generally giving a good indication of:

Which factions are winning events.
Which factions are putting up plenty of X-1 records, but struggling to convert that to trophies.
Which factions aren’t showing up at all or rarely.

This is generally enough to take an initial stab at sorting factions into tiers, but isn’t the end of the process.

First up, we have statistics. Rob and the stats team do a fantastic job of collating and presenting stats on faction performance in the regular Meta Analyses, drawing both from tournaments and data from the ITC battles app. This helps refine the initial tiering, injecting a less vibes-based source of placings. Notably, a faction performing strongly or weakly in the stats can help us decide on which tier borderline cases fall into, while if a faction’s statistical performance diverges wildly from where it’s been placed it can prompt us to take a closer look at tournament results – maybe a specific bad matchup is pushing numbers down, or there’s a hot new build we haven’t encountered yet.

The full stats update is over in today’s Meta Analysis, but a chart that’s particularly useful for providing a quick snapshot of how factions have been doing recently is the one below showing recent changes in Glicko scores:

Finally, the proposed list is shared among our competitive team, plus various guest contributors, for them to a.) rip into b.) add particular insights from the factions and matchups they’ve played a lot and c.) help sort factions within the tiers. I then take the final results and compile this article.

The Tiers

The criteria for going into each tier breaks down as follows:

S-Tier – Dominant Faction(s)

I have, finally, given in – as of this tier list, if one or more factions is unusually dominant then they get to live in their own special tier. The main reason for adding this is to preserve the granularity of the Tier 2/Tier 3 divide – if one faction occupied Tier 1 all by itself, then all the factions that naturally belong there get pushed to tier 2, and we’re left with either the bottom half of Tier 2 being radically different from the top part in performance, or an extremely stuffed Tier 3. I strongly suspect readers can guess which faction has led me to add this.

Tier 1 – Premium Factions

The cream of the crop – the factions that take tournament trophies week in and week out, and where the best builds provide a substantial boost to a player’s chance of winning an event and can generally take on all comers.

Tier 2 – Contenders

Strong factions with powerful builds available that can comfortably take a player to the top, but with the odd weakness such as a bad matchup that keeps them from being among the very best.

Tier 3 – Capable Factions

Factions that can put together a perfectly serviceable list that can win events, but where there are generally better versions of the same strategy available in tiers one and two.

Tier 4 – Hard Mode Zone

Factions where a mix of outdated rules, skewed rosters or being poorly adapted to the 9th missions start to really hurt your chances. Building winning lists here requires very careful use of the Codex, and you’ll often still be at the mercy of a run of misfortune against stronger factions.

Trash Tier

The bad place where win rates go to die. Factions with the same problems as the tier 4 ones that are, for whatever reason, getting kicked by them even harder and just aren’t winning anything at all.

The EOY 2021 Tier List

Key

⇑ – Rank increased from the previous list. One rank per arrow.
⇓ – Rank decreased from the previous list. One rank per arrow.
= – Rank unchanged from the previous list.

Rankings

S-Tier
- Drukhari (new)
Tier 1
- Iron Hands ⇑
- Orks ⇑
- Tyranids/Hive Mind ⇑
- Black Templars ⇑
- Grey Knights ⇑⇑
Tier 2
- Dark Angels ⇓
- Space Wolves =
- Adepta Sororitas ⇓
- Deathwatch ⇑⇑
- Thousand Sons ⇑⇑⇑
- Aeldari soup =
- Adeptus Custodes =
- Adeptus Mechanicus = (though uh, if we’d done this at any point since their book this would be ⇓⇓)
Tier 3
- Imperial Knights =
- Chaos Knights =
- Chaos Soup ⇓⇓
- Harlequins ⇓⇓
- Death Guard ⇓⇓
- White Scars ⇓
- Blood Angels ⇓
- Daemons ⇓
- Salamanders =
Tier 4
- Necrons ⇓
- Chaos Space Marines =
- Ultramarines =
- Raven Guard ⇓⇓
- Astra Militarum =
- Craftworlds =
Trash
- Tau =
- Genestealer Cults ⇓
- Imperial Fists ⇓

Implications

The Good

While not directly captured on the list, the gaps between tiers feel quite a bit smaller than they have at previous points in this Edition. There is an uncontested top army, but anything in Tier 1 and Tier 2 can produce lists that are a reliable threat to it, armies in Tier 3 are pretty regular features in top fours, and the stuff in Tier 4 is at least on the radar as a potential source of event winners.
Every book released in 2021 (except Death Guard, which arguably doesn’t count as it was delayed from 2020) is in Tier 2 or higher. Part of this is because some of the books were extremely pushed, but even the books that are on the lower end of the modern power scale end up as capable contenders. Given that it’s much easier to take an overpowered book down a notch than it is to bring one that’s too weak up, and we now have the promise of quarterly balance updates, this is a very encouraging trend.
The trash is about to be taken out – both the most persistent denizens of this tier are about to get new books, and Imperial Fists – well at least at most hardcore competitive events you can just run them as another chapter.

The Bad

We have a top army that needs a tier for itself for the first time, and that’s after multiple attempts to bring it to heel. To be fair, the gap is now quite a bit smaller than it would have been if we’d written this a couple of months ago, but still noticeable and enough to warp the value of a few other lists.
The 2020 9th Edition books (in which I’m including Death Guard) are flagging. Marines partially get around this thanks to the breadth of Supplements available to them, but that creates its own set of problems in how to balance the faction to uplift the weaker Chapters without making the already strong ones overpowered. A particular pain point there (and affecting Chaos too) is the Volkite Contemptor – a unit that is wildly too good at its best, but also a crutch keeping some builds operational. This, at least, is where the advent of the Balance Dataslate is particularly good news – while the improvements to Necrons, Chaos and Guard haven’t yet pulled them out of Tier 4, they leave the factions in a better place for points changes to help.

Faction Breakdown

S-Tier

Drukhari

How else could we end the year but with Drukhari on top? The book has dominated competitive play since its release, and while the current builds are a considerable step down from what was originally possible, they still come out ahead of every other faction, both in terms of tournament wins and pure win rate, with only negative matchups in the field against some pretty rare factions.

The Drukhari book was the first where it felt like serious work had gone into making every unit excel at its job, and also equipped players with enormous amounts of choice when building lists, and one of the most powerful army-wide rules in the game in the form of Power from Pain. 9th Edition is heavily objective focused, and a faction with exceptional melee trade pieces, cheap and effective transports and army-wide Advance/Charge from turn two is ideally suited to attacking the missions. They also have one of the best secondary objectives in the game in Herd the Prey, which does what it says on the tin – forces the opponent to commit to places where the Drukhari can launch lethal strikes.

Throughout the year, “Goodstuff” builds that just combine all of Drukhari’s best mobile and deadly units in various combinations have been a metagame staple, and later on people also re-discovered the power of Talos, where the heat lance/gauntlet/injector combo as Artists of the Flesh creates a super flexible, super durable centrepiece unit. Adding some point cuts to those in the balance dataslate has unleashed a powerful, Covens-focused alternative to the Goodstuff builds, commonly known as Thicc City. Both builds are capable of dominating tournaments, and taken together they ensure Drukhari end 2021 as the faction to beat.

Sample List (Covens) – Richard Siegler – 1st Place US Open Austin

Army List - Click to Expand

++ Patrol Detachment 0CP (Aeldari – Drukhari) [70 PL, 12CP, 1,004pts] ++

+ Configuration +

Obsession
. *Custom Coven*: Artists of the Flesh (All-Consuming)

Raiding Forces – CP Refund

+ HQ +

Haemonculus [4 PL, 70pts]: As Detachment (Coven), Master Regenerist, The Animus Vitae, Warlord

+ Troops +

Wracks [12 PL, 154pts]: As Detachment (Coven)
. Acothyst: Electrocorrosive Whip
. Wrack w/ Special Weapon: Ossefactor
. 16x Wracks: 16x Wrack Blade

Wracks [3 PL, 40pts]: As Detachment (Coven)
. Acothyst: Wrack Blade
. 4x Wracks: 4x Wrack Blade

+ Elites +

Grotesques [12 PL, 140pts]: As Detachment (Coven)
. Grotesque w/ Monstrous Cleaver
. Grotesque w/ Monstrous Cleaver
. Grotesque w/ Monstrous Cleaver
. Grotesque w/ Monstrous Cleaver

+ Heavy Support +

Talos [12 PL, 210pts]: As Detachment (Coven)
. Talos: Talos Gauntlet, Talos ichor injector
. . Two heat lances
. Talos: Talos Gauntlet, Talos ichor injector
. . Two heat lances

++ Patrol Detachment 0CP (Aeldari – Drukhari) [31 PL, -2CP, 655pts] ++

+ Configuration +

Obsession
. *Custom Coven*: Dark Technomancers (All-Consuming)

+ Stratagems +

Stratagem: Prizes from the Dark City [-1CP]

+ HQ +

Succubus [4 PL, -1CP, 95pts]: 3 – Hypex (Combat Drug), As Detachment (Wych Cult), Quicksilver Fighter, Stratagem: Tolerated Ambition, The Triptych Whip
. Agoniser & Archite Glaive
. Show Stealer (Custom): Show Stealer

+ Troops +

Wracks [3 PL, 40pts]: *Custom Coven*
. Acothyst: Wrack Blade
. 4x Wracks: 4x Wrack Blade

+ Heavy Support +

Cronos [12 PL, 260pts]: As Detachment (Coven)
. Cronos: Spirit Probe, Spirit Vortex
. Cronos: Spirit Vortex
. Cronos: Spirit Vortex

++ Patrol Detachment 0CP (Aeldari – Drukhari) [21 PL, -2CP, 341pts] ++

+ Configuration +

Obsession: Kabal of the Black Heart: Thirst for Power

+ Stratagems +

Stratagem: Prizes from the Dark City [-1CP]

+ No Force Org Slot +

Court of the Archon [10 PL, 136pts]: As Detachment (Kabal)
. Sslyth
. Sslyth
. Sslyth
. Sslyth
. Ur-Ghul: As Detachment (Kabal)
. Ur-Ghul: As Detachment (Kabal)
. Ur-Ghul: As Detachment (Kabal)
. Ur-Ghul: As Detachment (Kabal)

+ HQ +

Archon [5 PL, -1CP, 90pts]: Ancient Evil, As Detachment (Kabal), Huskblade, Overlord, Splinter Pistol, Stratagem: Tolerated Ambition, The Djin Blade
. Splintered Genius (Black Heart): Splintered Genius

+ Troops +

Wracks [3 PL, 40pts]: *Custom Coven*
. Acothyst: Wrack Blade
. 4x Wracks: 4x Wrack Blade

+ Elites +

Mandrakes [3 PL, 75pts] . 4x Mandrake: 4x Baleblast, 4x Glimmersteel Blade
. Nightfiend

++ Total: [122 PL, 8CP, 2,000pts] ++

Sample List (Goodstuff) – Boris Michev – 2nd Place UKTC Leicester Supermajor

Army List - Click to Expand

++ Patrol Detachment 0CP (Aeldari – Drukhari) [64 PL, 1,109pts, 10CP] ++

+ Configuration [12CP] +

Battle Size [12CP]: 3. Strike Force (101-200 Total PL / 1001-2000 Points) [12CP]

Obsession: Kabal of the Black Heart: Thirst for Power

Raiding Forces – CP Refund

+ Stratagems [-1CP] +

Stratagem: Prizes from the Dark City [-1CP]: Additional Relics [-1CP]

+ No Force Org Slot [10 PL, 134pts] +

Court of the Archon [10 PL, 134pts]: As Detachment (Kabal)
. Lhamean [16pts]: Shaimeshi blade
. Sslyth [18pts]: Shardcarbine, Splinter Pistol, Sslyth battle-blade
. Sslyth [18pts]: Shardcarbine, Splinter Pistol, Sslyth battle-blade
. Sslyth [18pts]: Shardcarbine, Splinter Pistol, Sslyth battle-blade
. Ur-Ghul [16pts]: As Detachment (Kabal), Ur-Ghul Talons
. Ur-Ghul [16pts]: As Detachment (Kabal), Ur-Ghul Talons
. Ur-Ghul [16pts]: As Detachment (Kabal), Ur-Ghul Talons
. Ur-Ghul [16pts]: As Detachment (Kabal), Ur-Ghul Talons

+ HQ [5 PL, 90pts, -1CP] +

Archon [5 PL, 90pts, -1CP]: Ancient Evil, As Detachment (Kabal), Huskblade [5pts], Overlord, Splinter Pistol, Stratagem: Tolerated Ambition [-1CP], The Djin Blade
. Splintered Genius (Black Heart) [1 PL, 15pts]: Splintered Genius [1 PL, 15pts]

+ Troops [8 PL, 145pts] +

Kabalite Trueborn [8 PL, 145pts]: As Detachment (Kabal)
. 6x Kabalite Trueborn [66pts]: 6x Splinter Rifle
. Kabalite Trueborn w/ Heavy Weapon [26pts]: Dark Lance [15pts] . Kabalite Trueborn w/ Special Weapon [21pts]: Blaster [10pts] . Kabalite Trueborn w/ Special Weapon [21pts]: Blaster [10pts] . Trueborn Sybarite [11pts]: Splinter Rifle

+ Elites [7 PL, 165pts] +

Incubi [4 PL, 90pts] . 4x Incubi [72pts]: 4x Klaive
. Klaivex [18pts]: Demiklaives

Mandrakes [3 PL, 75pts] . 4x Mandrake [60pts]: 4x Baleblast, 4x Glimmersteel Blade
. Nightfiend [15pts]: Baleblast, Glimmersteel Blade

+ Heavy Support [16 PL, 260pts] +

Ravager [8 PL, 130pts]: As Detachment (Kabal), Bladevanes, 3x Dark Lance

+ Dedicated Transport [18 PL, 315pts] +

Raider [6 PL, 105pts]: As Detachment, Bladevanes, Dark Lance [10pts]

++ Patrol Detachment 0CP (Aeldari – Drukhari) [17 PL, 340pts] ++

Obsession
. *Custom Coven*: Artists of the Flesh (All-Consuming)

Raiding Forces – CP Refund

+ HQ [8 PL, 145pts] +

Drazhar [8 PL, 145pts]: Hatred Eternal, The Executioner’s Demiklaives, Warlord

+ Troops [9 PL, 195pts] +

Wracks [3 PL, 65pts]: As Detachment (Coven)
. Acothyst [23pts]: Electrocorrosive Whip [5pts], Liquifier Gun [10pts] . Wrack w/ Special Weapon [18pts]: Liquifier Gun [10pts], Wrack Blade
. 3x Wracks [24pts]: 3x Wrack Blade

++ Patrol Detachment 0CP (Aeldari – Drukhari) [25 PL, 550pts, -2CP] ++

Detachment Command Cost

Obsession
. *Custom Coven*: Artists of the Flesh (All-Consuming)

Raiding Forces – CP Refund

+ Stratagems [-1CP] +

Stratagem: Prizes from the Dark City [-1CP]: Additional Relics [-1CP]

+ HQ [4 PL, 95pts, -1CP] +

Succubus [4 PL, 95pts, -1CP]: 3 – Hypex (Combat Drug), Competitive Edge, Stratagem: Tolerated Ambition [-1CP], The Triptych Whip, Wych Cult of Strife
. Agoniser & Archite Glaive: Agoniser, Archite Glaive
. Show Stealer (Strife) [1 PL, 15pts]: Show Stealer [1 PL, 15pts]

+ Troops [9 PL, 195pts] +

+ Elites [4 PL, 90pts] +

Incubi [4 PL, 90pts] . 4x Incubi [72pts]: 4x Klaive
. Klaivex [18pts]: Demiklaives

+ Fast Attack [8 PL, 170pts] +

Hellions [4 PL, 85pts]: 1 – Adrenalight (Combat Drug), (Wych Cult – Strife)
. Helliarch [17pts]: Hellglaive, Splinter Pods
. 4x Hellion [68pts]: 4x Hellglaive, 4x Splinter Pods

++ Total: [106 PL, 8CP, 1,999pts] ++

Tier 1

Iron Hands

Did you know the Iron Hands Supplement is really, really good? While the forces of Medusa lay dormant in early 9th, the arrival of 9-wound Volkite Contemptor Dreadnought sent the power level of March of the Ancients through the roof, as a Bodyguardable nightmare shooting unit is a spectacular asset to any army. In addition, players also figured out that the Iron Hands Superdoctrine and Stratagem sheet hand you such effective options for alpha striking with shooting that you can afford to “spend” your Chapter Tactic on tools to augment melee units (often Whirlwind of Rage and Born Heroes), creating a list that’s powerful in multiple phases.

This saw success in builds that just dumped Devastators, Vanguard Veterans and Redemptors on the table alongside the Character VolCon, but a later innovation that’s really pushed this setup to the limit is the use of the Minotaurs Forge World Chapter, letting you bring a second Character Contemptor in Hekaton Aiakos. These builds tend to cut the rest of the armour (or only bring hide-able artillery like the Whirlwind Scorpius or Sicarian Arcus) to deny opponents targets for their anti-tank, making them tremendously difficult to deal with. Some spins on this add some extra melta and swap in Master Artisans for Born Heroes, helping deal with how heavy the metagame is currently.

Seeing this at the top of Tier 1 might come as a surprise to some American readers, as this army’s popularity is unusually skewed to the UK and European metagame, but the stats bear out its position, and those of use who’ve seen it in action are confident it’s the real deal. Our own JONK ran into this in a practice game, assumed it was a meme list then got roundly flattened – this army is far, far more dangerous than it looks. Euro-lists always make the leap across the Atlantic eventually (often at big events) so if you’re aiming at the crown at LVO you should make sure you at least understand what this army is capable of.

Sample List – Innes Wilson -1st Place Clash of Alba Winter Assault

Army List - Click to Expand

== Adeptus Astartes – Minotaurs (Iron Hands Successors) – Patrol Detachment = -3CP, [59PL, 1175pts] ==
Chapter Tactic: Whirlwind of Rage & Master Artisans

HQ
Primaris Lieutenant [5PL, 90pts] Master-Crafted Power Sword, Heavy Bolt Pistol, Storm Shield, Warlord – Rites of War, Relic – Vox Espiritum
Hecaton Aiakos [8PL, 160pts]

Troops
5 Infiltrator [6PL, 120pts]

Elites
Relic Contemptor Dreadnought [8PL, 175pts] 2 Twin Volkite Culverin, Cyclone Missile Launcher, March of the Ancients (-1CP), Hero of the Chapter – Merciless Logic (-1CP), Martial Legacy (-1CP)

Fast Attack
Land Speeder [3PL, 70pts] Multi-Melta
Land Speeder [3PL, 70pts] Multi-Melta

Heavy Support
Devastator Squad [8PL, 155pts] 2 Multi-Melta, 2 Grav-Cannon, Sergeant – 2 Astartes Chainsword, Armorium Cherub
Devastator Squad [8PL, 155pts] 2 Multi-Melta, 2 Grav-Cannon, Sergeant – 2 Astartes Chainsword, Armorium Cherub

Dedicated Transport
DT: Drop Pod [4PL, 70pts].
DT: Land Speeder Storm [3PL, 55pts].
DT: Land Speeder Storm [3PL, 55pts]

== Adeptus Astartes – Minotaurs (Iron Hands Successors) – Vanguard Detachment = -5CP, [51PL, 825pts] ==
Chapter Tactic: Whirlwind of Rage & Master Artisans

Primaris Techmarine [4PL, 80pts] Hero of the Chapter – Target Protocols (-1CP)

Elites
5 Vanguard Veteran [7PL, 145pts] 4 Lightning Claw, 4 Storm Shield, Sergeant – Astartes Chainsword, Lightning Claw
5 Vanguard Veteran [7PL, 145pts] 4 Lightning Claw, 4 Storm Shield, Sergeant – Astartes Chainsword, Lightning Claw
5 Vanguard Veteran [7PL, 145pts] 4 Lightning Claw, 4 Storm Shield, Sergeant – Astartes Chainsword, Lightning Claw
3 Company Veteran [8PL, 68pts] 2 Storm Shield, 2 Astartes Chainsword, Sergeant – 2 Astartes Chainsword
3 Company Veteran [8PL, 72pts] 2 Storm Shield, 2 Astartes Chainsword, Sergeant – Storm Shield, Astartes Chainsword

Heavy Support
Whirlwind Scorpius [10PL, 170pts] Martial Legacy (-1CP)

Orks

The Ork codex contains some extremely pushed units and datasheets, but was suppressed out of the gate by the fact that Stratoraptor spam lists were close to a hard counter against them. With AdMech taking a major hit in the Balance Dataslate it’s now the Greenskins’ time to shine, with three viable builds all punching at tier 1 levels.

Two of these are shooty Vehicle-based lists, being Freebooterz and the Speed Mob. The former was so powerful prior to the Balance Dataslate, utterly annihilating almost anything except AdMech, that it also came in for some particular attention, limiting the number of powerful planes it could bring, and forcing it to collate its buggies into units. This merely leaves it as an extremely good build that’s won a supermajor post-update. It has fast, durable and dangerous shooting platforms, and can support this with very cost effective utility infantry in the form of Stormboyz and Kommandos, especially good with the Get Da Loot stratagem, plus the Badskull Banner on a Character to strip enemy ObSec. The Speed Mob uses some overlapping tools with Freebooterz, as the planes work much the same, but also takes advantage of the power of ObSec Warbikers.

The other popular route for Orks is to play Goffs, using the massive range of tools the army has for getting threats into the opponent’s face fast, and then crushing them under the power of the Goff Clan Kultur. In particular, Kill Rigs Advancing/Charging thanks to being CHARACTERs for Waaagh lets armies using them throw overwhelming pressure at the opponent, and they hit like a freight train once they’re there. It’s a good time to be green, though it wouldn’t surprise us to see a small point cut to some Infantry options to broaden the base of available strategies a bit.

Sample List (Goffs) – Mark Perry – 2nd Place New Orleans Open

Army List - Click to Expand

++ Patrol Detachment -2CP (Orks) [26 PL, -2CP, 380pts] ++

+ Configuration +

Clan Kultur: Goffs

Detachment Command Cost [-2CP]

+ HQ +

Warboss [5 PL, 100pts]: 6. Might is Right, Da Killa Klaw, Kombi-skorcha, Power Klaw, Trukk Boyz

+ Troops +

Beast Snagga Boyz [5 PL, 110pts] . 9x Beast Snagga Boy: 9x Choppa, 9x Slugga
. Beast Snagga Nob

+ Elites +

Kommandos [8 PL, 85pts] . Boss Nob: Big Choppa
. 7x Kommando: 7x Choppa, 7x Slugga, 7x Stikkbombs

++ Patrol Detachment 0CP (Orks) [46 PL, 735pts] ++

+ Configuration +

Clan Kultur: Goffs

+ HQ +

Beastboss [5 PL, 95pts]: 4. Brutal but Kunnin, Beasthide Mantle, Warlord

+ Troops +

Beast Snagga Boyz [5 PL, 110pts] . 9x Beast Snagga Boy: 9x Choppa, 9x Slugga
. Beast Snagga Nob

+ Elites +

Meganobz [12 PL, 180pts]: Trukk Boyz
. Boss Meganob: Kombi-skorcha, Power Klaw
. Meganob: Kombi-skorcha, Power Klaw
. Meganob: Kombi-skorcha, Power Klaw
. Meganob: Kombi-skorcha, Power Klaw

+ Fast Attack +

Squighog Boyz [8 PL, 105pts]: Bomb Squig
. 4x Squighog Boy: 4x Saddlegit Weapons, 4x Squighog Jaws, 4x Stikka

+ Dedicated Transport +

Trukk [4 PL, 70pts]

++ Patrol Detachment -2CP (Orks) [46 PL, -1CP, 885pts] ++

+ Configuration +

Clan Kultur: Goffs

+ HQ +

Beastboss [5 PL, -1CP, 95pts]: 1. Big Killa Boss (Beast Snagga), Headwoppa’s Killchoppa, Stratagem: Big Boss

+ Troops +

Beast Snagga Boyz [5 PL, 110pts] . 9x Beast Snagga Boy: 9x Choppa, 9x Slugga
. Beast Snagga Nob

+ Elites +

Meganobz [12 PL, 225pts]: Trukk Boyz
. Boss Meganob: Kombi-skorcha, Power Klaw
. Meganob: Kombi-skorcha, Power Klaw
. Meganob: Kombi-skorcha, Power Klaw
. Meganob: Kombi-skorcha, Power Klaw
. Meganob: Kombi-skorcha, Power Klaw

+ Fast Attack +

Squighog Boyz [4 PL, 75pts] . 3x Squighog Boy: 3x Saddlegit Weapons, 3x Squighog Jaws, 3x Stikka

+ Heavy Support +

Kill Rig [10 PL, 190pts]: 2. Frazzle, 4. Spirit of Gork

Kill Rig [10 PL, 190pts]: 4. Spirit of Gork, 6. Squiggly Curse

++ Total: [118 PL, -3CP, 2,000pts] ++

Sample List (Freebooterz) – Brian Seipp – 1st Place LCGT Supermajor

Army List - Click to Expand

++ Outrider Detachment -3CP (Orks) [83 PL, 1,670pts, 7CP] ++

+ Configuration +

Battle Size [12CP]: 3. Strike Force (101-200 Total PL / 1001-2000 Points)

Clan Kultur: Freebooterz

Detachment Command Cost [-3CP]

+ HQ +

Beastboss on Squigosaur [8 PL, 145pts, -2CP]: 1. Big Killa Boss (Beast Snagga), Headwoppa’s Killchoppa, Stratagem: Big Boss, Stratagem: Extra Gubbinz

Big Mek w/ Kustom Force Field [5 PL, 85pts]

+ Fast Attack +

DeffKoptas [8 PL, 250pts] . DeffKopta
. DeffKopta
. DeffKopta
. DeffKopta
. DeffKopta

Kustom Boosta Blastas [12 PL, 240pts] . Kustom Boosta Blastas
. Kustom Boosta Blastas
. Kustom Boosta Blastas

Megatrakk Scrapjets [15 PL, 270pts] . Megatrakk Scrapjet
. Megatrakk Scrapjet
. Megatrakk Scrapjet

Rukkatrukk Squigbuggies [15 PL, 270pts] . Rukkatrukk Squigbuggy
. Rukkatrukk Squigbuggy
. Rukkatrukk Squigbuggy

+ Flyer +

Wazbom Blastajet [10 PL, 210pts]: 2x Tellyport Mega-Blastas, Blastajet Force Field

Wazbom Blastajet [10 PL, 200pts]: 2x Tellyport Mega-Blastas, Stikkbomb Flinga, Supa Shoota

++ Patrol Detachment 0CP (Orks) [18 PL, 330pts] ++

+ Configuration +

Clan Kultur: Freebooterz

Detachment Command Cost

+ HQ +

Deffkilla Wartrike [6 PL, 120pts]: Da Badskull Banner (Freebooterz), Killa Reputation (Freebooterz), Warlord

+ Troops +

Gretchin [2 PL, 50pts]: ‘Orrible Gitz
. 10x Gretchin: 10x Grot Blaster

+ Elites +

Kommandos [4 PL, 50pts] . Boss Nob: Choppa
. 4x Kommando: 4x Choppa, 4x Slugga, 4x Stikkbombs

+ Fast Attack +

Stormboyz [3 PL, 55pts] . Boss Nob: Choppa
. 4x Stormboy: 4x Choppa, 4x Slugga, 4x Stikkbombs

++ Total: [101 PL, 2,000pts, 7CP] ++

Tyranids/Hive Mind

The Leviathan Codex Supplement might just be the most powerful that has been published in 9th Edition, working alongside Synaptic Links to allow a faction that’s still using an 8th Edition book go toe-to-toe with the best of 9th Edition. We’ve made this a joint ranking with Hive Mind at the moment as almost all top Tyranid lists are using a small Four Armed Emperor Genestealer detachment right now, as there are vanishingly few reasons not to (though that may change with the new book).

The reason everyone wants to bring some Genestealers is that the power unit in Tyranids is Hive Guard, and blips (including extra from Sensor Decoys) are fantastic for protecting them from early counterplay. Adding full hit re-rolls from Swarm Leader and the option of Relentless Flurry plus various Synaptic Links pushes an already great unit even higher, and almost every Nid list is running at least a unit of six. You can also push this further, with successful builds sporting 12 or even more also being seen.

Also excellent with Flurry are Devourer Termagants, burying the opponent under what can easily become 100+ hits at S4 and flaying apart anything that isn’t either T8 or on a 2+ (and even those aren’t always safe). This setup also coming with a tonne of ObSec bodies only sweetens the deal, as some popular lists can struggle to shift a horde. Finally, the pressure combo of the Swarmlord and Genestealers is still a real challenge for some armies to deal with. Finally, if you want to forgo some of the toys and play a more skewed game, the Harridan is legitimately viable thanks to all the buffs that can be layered on it.

Tyranids are firmly part of the upper echelons of the game at the moment, but also the most imminently due for a shakeup. If the GSC book neuters the utility of the add-on detachment (which given the general anti-soup trends of 9th, is certainly possible) then the best builds get a bit weaker – but on the flip side, the new Crusher Stampede Army of Renown is ominously approaching the metagame. The Hive Mind lives in interesting times – but also definitely good ones.

Sample List – John Lennon – 1st Place New Orleans Open

Army List - Click to Expand

++ Battalion Detachment 0CP (Tyranids) [101 PL, 1,783pts, 11CP] ++

+ Configuration +

Battle Size [12CP]: 3. Strike Force (101-200 Total PL / 1001-2000 Points)

Detachment Command Cost

Hive Fleet: Leviathan

+ HQ +

Malanthrope [8 PL, 150pts, -1CP]: Relic: Adaptive Neural Lobe, Stratagem: Alpha Leader-Beast, Warlord, Warlord Trait: Strategic Adaptation, Warlord Trait: Swarm Leader

The Swarmlord [14 PL, 240pts]: Power: Catalyst, Power: Paroxysm

+ Troops +

Genestealers [12 PL, 156pts]: 3x Acid Maw
. 12x Genestealer: 12x Rending Claws

Hormagaunts [6 PL, 114pts] . 19x Hormagaunt: 19x Scything Talons

Termagants [9 PL, 182pts] . 26x Termagant (Devourer): 26x Devourer

Tyranid Warriors [5 PL, 66pts]: Synaptic Link: Bioweapon Bond
. Tyranid Warrior: 2x Scything Talons
. Tyranid Warrior: 2x Scything Talons
. Tyranid Warrior: 2x Scything Talons

+ Elites +

Hive Guard [12 PL, 270pts] . 6x Hive Guard (Impaler): 6x Impaler Cannon

Lictor [2 PL, 37pts]

Maleceptor [10 PL, 185pts]: Power: Onslaught, Synaptic Link: Focal Essence

+ Fast Attack +

Sky-slasher Swarms [2 PL, 45pts] . 3x Sky-slasher Swarm: 3x Claws and Teeth

++ Patrol Detachment -2CP (Tyranids – Genestealer Cults) [13 PL, 215pts, -2CP] ++

+ Configuration +

Cult Creed: Cult of the Four-Armed Emperor

Detachment Command Cost [-2CP]

+ HQ +

Patriarch [7 PL, 135pts]: Power: Mass Hypnosis, Power: Mind Control

+ Troops +

Acolyte Hybrids [3 PL, 40pts] . 4x Acolyte Hybrid: 4x Autopistol, 4x Blasting Charges, 4x Cultist Knife, 4x Rending Claw
. Acolyte Leader: Autopistol, Cultist Knife

++ Total: [114 PL, 1,998pts, 9CP] ++

Black Templars

Black Templars have really hit the ground running in the wake of their new Supplement, taking down multiple majors and seeing a corresponding surge in both play and win rates – all indicative of an excellent book.

The main things Templars have going for them are the power of Uphold the Honour of the Emperor, which makes Redemptors (and to a lesser extend Gravis shooting units) tremendously strong, one of the best Chapter Masters in the business in Helbrecht (a lock for almost all lists) and exceptional customisation options from the powerful Relic Bearers upgrade system. In addition, they have one of the best angles on a horde Marine build thanks to the cost efficiency of Primaris Crusaders, which can help to anchor whatever shooting or alpha melee units are being used.

Lists skewed towards maximising the value of the invulnerable save and going harder on hordes have both seen success already, and the sheer amount of different tricks you can pull off with the upgrades, especially the defensive ones, ensure that Templars should be able to adapt and retain a strong position in the metagame whatever comes next.

Sample List – Matt Root – 1st Place Renegade Open

Army List - Click to Expand

++ Battalion Detachment 0CP (Imperium – Adeptus Astartes – Black Templars) [102 PL, 7CP, 1,996pts] ++

+ Configuration +

Chapter Selection: Black Templars

+ Stratagems +

Revered Repositories [-1CP]

Strategem: Relics of the Chapter [-2CP]: 2x Number of Extra Relics

+ HQ +

High Marshal Helbrecht [8 PL, 160pts]: Attendant Thrall’s Fists, Feroicity, Frag & Krak grenades, Sword of the High Marshals

Primaris Chaplain on Bike [7 PL, 140pts]: 1. Litany of Divine Protection, 4. Fires of Devotion, Absolver Bolt pistol, Ancient Breviary, Chapter Command: Master of Sanctity, Crozius arcanum, Frag & Krak grenades, Litany of Hate, Twin Bolt rifle

Primaris Chaplain on Bike [6 PL, -1CP, 115pts]: 3. Exhortation of Rage, Absolver Bolt pistol, Crozius arcanum, Frag & Krak grenades, Litany of Hate, Rites of War, Stratagem: Hero of the Chapter, Tannhauser’s Bones, Twin Bolt rifle

+ Troops +

Assault Intercessor Squad [6 PL, 115pts]: Fist of Balthus
. . 4x Assault Intercessor: 4x Astartes Chainsword, 4x Frag & Krak grenades, 4x Heavy Bolt Pistol
. . Assault Intercessor Sgt: Frag & Krak grenades, Heavy Bolt Pistol, Power fist

Crusader Squad [5 PL, 90pts]
. . 4x Initiate: 4x Bolt pistol, 4x Boltgun, 4x Frag & Krak grenades
. . Sword Brother: Astartes Chainsword, Boltgun, Frag & Krak grenades

+ Elites +

Bladeguard Veteran Squad [11 PL, 225pts]: Icon of Heinmann
. . 5x Bladeguard Veteran: 5x Frag & Krak grenades, 5x Heavy Bolt Pistol, 5x Master-crafted power sword, 5x Storm Shield
. . Bladeguard Veteran Sergeant: Frag & Krak grenades, Heavy Bolt Pistol, Master-crafted power sword, Storm Shield, Sword of Judgement

Primaris Apothecary [5 PL, 115pts]: Absolver Bolt pistol, Chapter Command: Chief Apothecary, Frag & Krak grenades, Reductor Pistol, Selfless Healer, The Crusader’s Helm, Warlord

Redemptor Dreadnought [9 PL, 185pts]: 2x Fragstorm Grenade Launchers, Icarus Rocket Pod, Macro Plasma Incinerator, Onslaught Gatling Cannon, Redemptor Fist

Terminator Assault Squad [19 PL, -1CP, 316pts]: The Crux Obsidian
. . Assault Terminator Sergeant: Champion of the Feast
. . . . Thunder Hammer & Storm Shield: Storm shield, Thunder hammer
. . 6x Assault Terminator w/THSS: 6x Storm shield, 6x Thunder hammer

+ Fast Attack +

Attack Bike Squad [3 PL, 75pts]: Holy Orb
. . Attack Bike: 2x Bolt pistol, 2x Frag & Krak grenades, Multi-melta, Twin boltgun

Grey Knights

Dreadknights and Interceptors – name a more iconic duo. The strength of these two datasheets catapulted Grey Knights to very nearly the top of the metagame, especially once people had refined the Brotherhood and Relic selection to the Prescient Brethren/Swordbearers combo that now dominates. Grey Knights are fast, durable and deadly, have a great secondary in Purifying Ritual, and the biggest surprise to readers is probably that we have them at the bottom of tier 1 rather than the top.

That’s down to one factor and one factor alone – Talos/Grotesque builds are a serious problem for Grey Knights, as they heavily rely on D2 weapory to solve problems, and with Thicc City being one of the most popular armies at the top of the metagame, that does enough to drop these below some armies with better game into the space elf menace. Not, to be clear, enough to take them out of Tier 1 overall – on win rate alone Grey Knights are the second strongest faction in the game, and the low model count also means they’re an excellent entry point to Competitive Play.

Sample List – Adam Lane – 2nd Place Da Winter Waaagh 2

Army List - Click to Expand

== Grey Knights – Prescient Brethren – Patrol Detachment -2CP | 50PL | 915 Points ==

Techmarine, Warlord, Foretelling of Locus, Warlord Trait – Divination, Relic – Aetheric Conduit, Psychic Powers – Warp Shaping, Fatal Precognition [6PL, 110pts]

Grand Master in Nemesis Dreadknight, Gatling Psilencer, Heavy Psycannon, Nemesis Greatsword, Teleporter, Warlord Trait – Hammer of Righteousness, Relic – Sigil of Exigence, Psychic Powers – Gate of Infinity, Empyric Amplification, Fatal Precognition [10PL, 215pts, -1CP]

Troops

5x Strike Squad, Swords, Psychic Powers – Hammerhand, Fatal Precognition [6PL, 110pts]

Fast Attack

10x Inceptors. Halberds, Psychic Powers – Ethereal Castigation, Fatal Precognition [14PL, 240pts]

== Grey Knights – Sword Bearers – Patrol Detachment -2CP | 55PL | 1,085 Points ==

Grand Master in Nemesis Dreadknight, Gatling Psilencer, Heavy Psycannon, Nemesis Greatsword, Teleporter, Warlord Trait – Unyielding Anvil, Psychic Powers – Gate of Infinity, Empyric Amplification, Empyric Lodestone [10PL, 215pts, -1CP]

Castellan Crowe, Psychic Powers – Vortex of Doom, Purifying Flame [5PL, 90pts]

Troops

5x Strike Squad, Swords, Psychic Powers – Hammerhand, Empyric Lodestone [6PL, 110pts]

Elites

4x Servitors [2PL, 30 pts]

Fast Attack

10x Inceptors. Halberds, Psychic Powers – Ethereal Castigation, Empyric Lodestone [14PL, 240pts]

Heavy Support

Nemesis Dreadknight, Gatling Psilencer, Heavy Psycannon, Nemesis Greatsword, Teleporter, Psychic Powers – Hammerhand, Empyric Lodestone [8PL, 185pts]

Tier 2

Dark Angels

Dark Angels are no longer the cream of the Marine crop, but have been reliably putting up moderately good results all year, and still have plenty going for them. Terminators with built in Transhuman and ObSec are still, it turns out, extremely strong units, and builds running lots of Deathwing are generally the ones that do the best. Some go all-in on Terminators, relying on a wall of durable Primary power to grind out games (a strategy which took John King to third place at the recent LCGT Supermajor), while others use a Deathwing core to anchor the line, then splash in a mixture of other options to provide a bit of reach and flexibility.

When on the latter plan, Azrael’s 4+ invulnerable aura for INFANTRY is a huge help, augmenting Plasmaceptors, Hellblasters and Eradicators, and with Damage Reduction very prevalent at the moment, Ravenwing Attack Bikes probably have a window to be good again. Dark Angels don’t quite have the flexibility of the best Iron Hands and Black Templars lists, but they’re a strong third Marine-wise, and can present a very unique challenge to opponents.

Sample List – Maxine Blythin – 4th Place FactoruM November GT

Army List - Click to Expand

++ Vanguard Detachment -3CP (Imperium – Adeptus Astartes – Dark Angels) [58 PL, -1CP, 1,260pts] ++

+ Configuration +

**Chapter Selector**: Dark Angels

Detachment Command Cost [-3CP]

+ HQ +

Azrael [8 PL, 2CP, 170pts]: 1. Brilliant Strategist, Warlord

+ Elites +

Deathwing Ancient [6 PL, 140pts]: Chapter Command: Chapter Ancient, Pennant of Remembrance
. Thunder Hammer and Storm Shield: Storm shield, Thunder hammer

Deathwing Command Squad [4 PL, 90pts]
. Deathwing Sergeant
. . Thunder Hammer & Storm Shield: Thunder hammer
. Deathwing Terminator
. . Thunder Hammer & Storm Shield: Thunder hammer

Deathwing Terminator Squad [9 PL, 185pts]
. Deathwing Sergeant
. . Storm Bolter & Power Sword
. Deathwing Terminator
. . Storm Bolter & Power Fist: Power fist
. Deathwing Terminator
. . Storm Bolter & Power Fist: Power fist
. Deathwing Terminator
. . Storm Bolter & Power Fist: Power fist
. Deathwing Terminator
. . Storm Bolter & Power Fist: Power fist

Deathwing Terminator Squad [9 PL, 205pts]
. Deathwing Sergeant
. . Storm Bolter & Power Sword
. Deathwing Terminator
. . Thunder Hammer & Storm Shield: Thunder hammer
. Deathwing Terminator
. . Thunder Hammer & Storm Shield: Thunder hammer
. Deathwing Terminator
. . Thunder Hammer & Storm Shield: Thunder hammer
. Deathwing Terminator
. . Thunder Hammer & Storm Shield: Thunder hammer

Deathwing Terminator Squad [18 PL, 380pts]
. Deathwing Sergeant
. . Thunder Hammer & Storm Shield: Thunder hammer
. Deathwing Terminator
. . Thunder Hammer & Storm Shield: Thunder hammer
. Deathwing Terminator
. . Thunder Hammer & Storm Shield: Thunder hammer
. Deathwing Terminator
. . Thunder Hammer & Storm Shield: Thunder hammer
. Deathwing Terminator
. . Thunder Hammer & Storm Shield: Thunder hammer
. Deathwing Terminator: Lightning Claw (Pair)
. Deathwing Terminator: Lightning Claw (Pair)
. Deathwing Terminator: Lightning Claw (Pair)
. Deathwing Terminator: Lightning Claw (Pair)
. Deathwing Terminator: Lightning Claw (Pair)

++ Patrol Detachment -2CP (Imperium – Adeptus Astartes – Dark Angels) [35 PL, -2CP, 740pts] ++

+ Configuration +

**Chapter Selector**: Dark Angels

Detachment Command Cost [-2CP]

+ HQ +

Ezekiel [7 PL, 125pts]: 1) Mind Worm, 5) Engulfing Fear, 6) Mind Wipe

+ Troops +

Infiltrator Squad [6 PL, 120pts]
. 4x Infiltrator: 4x Bolt pistol, 4x Frag & Krak grenades, 4x Marksman bolt carbine
. Infiltrator Sergeant

+ Elites +

Ravenwing Apothecary [6 PL, 135pts]: Chapter Command: Chief Apothecary
. Black Knight Bike: Plasma Talon

+ Fast Attack +

Attack Bike Squad [2 PL, 60pts]
. Attack Bike: Multi-melta

Inceptor Squad [14 PL, 300pts]: 4x Inceptor, Inceptor Sergeant, Plasma Exterminator x2

++ Total: [93 PL, -3CP, 2,000pts] ++

Space Wolves

As is only appropriate for the Space Wolves, they’re not taking the fact that Dark Angels are ahead of them quietly, and have been putting in quite a bit of work in metagames worldwide. The Space Wolves supplement has a tonne of depth, combining good unique units, a great Psychic Discipline, an excellent stratagem sheet and powerful Traits and Relics. A few months ago the omens looked somewhat poor for them, as builds that were popular in the summer were leaning on Psykers a lot (a weaker choice in a Grey Knight/Thousand Sons world), but they’ve comfortably pivoted to builds without them and continued strong. They excel at dealing damage at all distances, and have one of the most reliable secondary plans in the game thanks to Cyberwolves (though they’ll become less useful for Engage in the new year).

Both “proper” Space Wolves and Successors have seen success, with the latter often using the standard melee super combo of Born Heroes/Whirlwind to take the Chapter’s already considerable prowess up close even higher. More recently, a build from Jamie Paris that uses the ability to seed melta weaponry into various Wolf units alongside Master Artisans added a new angle on this to considerable success. This really highlights how many different things the army can do, and while the Secondary change might prove a knock for them, it seems very likely that they’ll find a way to adapt.

Sample List – Mathieu Boutin-Bastien – 1st Place MTL 40K

Army List - Click to Expand

++ Battalion Detachment 0CP (Imperium – Adeptus Astartes – Space Wolves) [100 PL, 8CP, 2,000pts] ++

+ Configuration +

**Chapter Selector**: Space Wolves

Battle Size [12CP]: 3. Strike Force (101-200 Total PL / 1001-2000 Points)

Detachment Command Cost

+ Stratagems +

Strategem: Relics of the Chapter [-2CP]: 2x Number of Extra Relics

+ HQ +

Lieutenants [4 PL, -1CP, 80pts]
. Primaris Lieutenant: Aura of Majesty, Bolt pistol, Stratagem: Hero of the Chapter, The Armour of Russ
. . Special issue bolt carbine and Master-crafted power axe: Master-crafted power axe

Primaris Captain [5 PL, 100pts]: Rites of War, The Vox Espiritum, Warlord
. Plasma Pistol and Power Fist: Power fist

+ Troops +

Assault Intercessor Squad [5 PL, 115pts]
. 4x Assault Intercessor
. Assault Intercessor Sgt: Heavy Bolt Pistol, Thunder hammer

+ Elites +

Bladeguard Veteran Squad [10 PL, 175pts]
. 4x Bladeguard Veteran
. Bladeguard Veteran Sergeant: Heavy Bolt Pistol

Judiciar [5 PL, -1CP, 85pts]: Hunter, Stratagem: Hero of the Chapter, The Wulfen Stone

Veteran Intercessor Squad [6 PL, 110pts]
. Auto Bolt Rifle
. 4x Veteran Intercessor
. Veteran Intercessor Sergeant: Power sword

Wolf Guard [7 PL, 145pts]: Jump Pack
. Wolf Guard: Astartes Chainsword, Power fist
. Wolf Guard: Astartes Chainsword, Power fist
. Wolf Guard: Astartes Chainsword, Power fist
. Wolf Guard: Astartes Chainsword, Power fist
. Wolf Guard Pack Leader: Astartes Chainsword, Power fist

Wolf Guard [7 PL, 145pts]: Jump Pack
. Wolf Guard: Astartes Chainsword, Thunder hammer
. Wolf Guard: Astartes Chainsword, Thunder hammer
. Wolf Guard: Astartes Chainsword, Astartes Chainsword
. Wolf Guard: Astartes Chainsword, Storm shield
. Wolf Guard Pack Leader: Astartes Chainsword, Thunder hammer

Wolf Guard [7 PL, 105pts]: Jump Pack
. Wolf Guard: Astartes Chainsword, Astartes Chainsword
. Wolf Guard: Astartes Chainsword, Astartes Chainsword
. Wolf Guard: Astartes Chainsword, Astartes Chainsword
. Wolf Guard: Astartes Chainsword, Astartes Chainsword
. Wolf Guard Pack Leader: Astartes Chainsword, Astartes Chainsword

+ Fast Attack +

Cyberwolves [1 PL, 15pts]: Cyberwolf

+ Heavy Support +

Eradicator Squad [14 PL, 290pts]: Melta rifle
. 3x Eradicator
. Eradicator Sgt
. Eradicator with MM: Multi-melta
. Eradicator with MM: Multi-melta

Eradicator Squad [7 PL, 145pts]: Melta rifle
. Eradicator
. Eradicator Sgt
. Eradicator with MM: Multi-melta

++ Total: [100 PL, 8CP, 2,000pts] ++

Sample List (Melee Successors) – Logan Antonation – 1st Place Return to IWTS

Army List - Click to Expand

++ Battalion Detachment 0CP (Imperium – Adeptus Astartes – Space Wolves) [103 PL, 8CP, 2,000pts] ++

+ Configuration +

**Chapter Selector**: Born Heroes , Custom Chapter, Space Wolves Successor, Whirlwind of Rage

+ Stratagems +

A Trophy Bestowed [-1CP]

Relics of the Chapter [-1CP]: Number of Extra Relics

+ HQ +

Chapter Master [8 PL, -1CP, 155pts]: Chapter Command: Chapter Master, Frost Weapon, Hunter, Jump Pack, Lightning Claw (Pair), Stratagem: Warrior of Legend, The Imperium’s Sword, Warlord

Primaris Chaplain on Bike [7 PL, -1CP, 140pts]: 2. Catechism of Fire, 6. Canticle of Hate (Aura), Chapter Command: Master of Sanctity, Rites of War, Stratagem: Hero of the Chapter, The Armour of Russ

+ Troops +

Assault Intercessor Squad [5 PL, 95pts]
. 4x Assault Intercessor: 4x Astartes Chainsword, 4x Frag & Krak grenades, 4x Heavy Bolt Pistol
. Assault Intercessor Sgt: Astartes Chainsword, Heavy Bolt Pistol

Infiltrator Squad [6 PL, 120pts]
. 4x Infiltrator: 4x Bolt pistol, 4x Frag & Krak grenades, 4x Marksman bolt carbine
. Infiltrator Sergeant

+ Elites +

Bladeguard Veteran Squad [5 PL, 105pts]
. 2x Bladeguard Veteran: 2x Frag & Krak grenades, 2x Heavy Bolt Pistol, 2x Master-crafted power sword, 2x Storm Shield
. Bladeguard Veteran Sergeant: Heavy Bolt Pistol

Bladeguard Veteran Squad [10 PL, 140pts]
. 3x Bladeguard Veteran: 3x Frag & Krak grenades, 3x Heavy Bolt Pistol, 3x Master-crafted power sword, 3x Storm Shield
. Bladeguard Veteran Sergeant: Heavy Bolt Pistol

Judiciar [5 PL, 85pts]

Wolf Guard [7 PL, 130pts]: Jump Pack
. Wolf Guard: Lightning Claw, Lightning Claw
. Wolf Guard: Lightning Claw, Lightning Claw
. Wolf Guard: Lightning Claw, Storm shield
. Wolf Guard: Astartes Chainsword, Astartes Chainsword
. Wolf Guard Pack Leader: Lightning Claw, Lightning Claw

Wolf Guard [7 PL, 165pts]: Jump Pack
. Wolf Guard: Lightning Claw, Lightning Claw
. Wolf Guard: Lightning Claw, Lightning Claw
. Wolf Guard: Storm shield, Thunder hammer
. Wolf Guard: Storm shield, Thunder hammer
. Wolf Guard Pack Leader: Storm shield, Thunder hammer

Wolf Guard Terminators [9 PL, 205pts]
. Wolf Guard in Terminator Armour: Combi-melta, Thunder hammer
. Wolf Guard in Terminator Armour: Combi-melta, Storm shield
. Wolf Guard in Terminator Armour: Combi-melta, Storm shield
. Wolf Guard in Terminator Armour: Storm bolter, Storm shield
. Wolf Guard Terminator Pack Leader: Combi-melta, Thunder hammer

+ Fast Attack +

Cyberwolves [1 PL, 15pts]: Cyberwolf

+ Heavy Support +

Long Fangs [7 PL, 175pts]: Armorium Cherub
. Long Fang: Multi-melta
. Long Fang: Multi-melta
. Long Fang: Multi-melta
. Long Fang: Multi-melta
. Long Fang Pack Leader: Astartes Chainsword
. . Boltgun and Bolt Pistol

+ Dedicated Transport +

Drop Pod [4 PL, 70pts]: Deathwind launcher

Impulsor [7 PL, 125pts]: 2x Fragstorm Grenade Launchers, Shield Dome

++ Total: [103 PL, 8CP, 2,000pts] ++

Adepta Sororitas

For my money, the Adepta Sororitas Codex is one of the best designed in 9th, having plenty of strong options and fantastic internal balance, and that results in them sitting in the upper half of tier two with a whole host of different builds that work. Bloody Rose can run solo or partner with nearly anything (especially Ebon Chalice or Argent Shroud to add ranged threat), Martyred Lady lists are increasingly popular, and even out-there skew builds that go heavy on hulls and Penitent Engines as Valorous Heart have made it to high placings at majors.

Sisters do a few things particularly well, notably unleash volleys of melta fire from Retributors, trading up with Repentia, throwing out Mortals from Blessed Bolts and running disruption with Zephyrim that have been handed ObSec by a Dogmata. In addition, Morvenn Vahl and Celestine are standout named characters that feature in most non-Martyred Lady lists, with Vahl being a tremendous all-rounder and force multiplier and Celestine a powerful piece for objective play thanks to cheeky Bodyguard usage. Sisters do have weaknesses, notably a lack of reach with their shooting, and have a few units badly in need of a discount, but the army’s strengths are considerable as well, and they should be a lock for this sort of placing essentially in perpetuity.

Sample List – John Lennon – 2nd Place Orlando Open August 2021

Army List - Click to Expand

++ Patrol Detachment 0CP (Imperium – Adepta Sororitas) [42 PL, 844pts, -1CP] ++

Order Convictions: Order: Bloody Rose

+ No Force Org Slot +

Repentia Superior [2 PL, 40pts, -1CP]: Relic: Litanies of Faith, Stratagem: Saint in the Making, Warlord Trait: 4. Beacon of Faith

+ HQ +

Morvenn Vahl [13 PL, 265pts]: Warlord

+ Troops +

Battle Sister Squad [3 PL, 55pts]
. 4x Battle Sister: 4x Bolt pistol, 4x Boltgun, 4x Frag & Krak grenades
. Sister Superior
. . Bolt Pistol & Boltgun

+ Elites +

Sisters Repentia [6 PL, 112pts]
. 8x Sisters Repentia: 8x Penitent Eviscerator

+ Fast Attack +

Zephyrim Squad [4 PL, 90pts]
. 4x Zephyrim: 4x Bolt pistol, 4x Frag & Krak grenades, 4x Power sword
. Zephyrim Superior: Bolt pistol, Zephyrim Pennant

+ Dedicated Transport +

Sororitas Rhino [4 PL, 80pts]

++ Outrider Detachment -3CP (Imperium – Adepta Sororitas) [56 PL, 1,156pts, -4CP] ++

+ Configuration +

Detachment Command Cost [-3CP]

Order Convictions: Order: Ebon Chalice

+ HQ +

Celestine and Geminae Superia [10 PL, 200pts]
. 2x Geminae Superia: 2x Bolt pistol, 2x Frag & Krak grenades, 2x Power sword

+ Elites +

Celestian Sacresants [6 PL, 131pts]
. 8x Celestian Sacresants (Anointed Halberd): 8x Anointed Halberd, 8x Bolt pistol, 8x Frag & Krak grenades
. Sacresant Superior: Bolt pistol, Spear of the Faithful

Dogmata [4 PL, 65pts, -1CP]: 4. Litany of Enduring Faith, 5. Verse of Holy Piety, Relic: The Sigil Ecclesiasticus, Stratagem: Saint in the Making, Warlord Trait: Terrible Knowledge

+ Fast Attack +

Dominion Squad [4 PL, 80pts]
. Dominion Superior
. . Bolt Pistol & Boltgun
. Dominion w/ Special Weapon: Artificier-crafted storm bolter
. Dominion w/ Special Weapon: Artificier-crafted storm bolter
. Dominion w/ Special Weapon: Artificier-crafted storm bolter
. Dominion w/ Special Weapon: Artificier-crafted storm bolter

Seraphim Squad [4 PL, 90pts]
. 2x Seraphim: 4x Bolt pistol, 2x Frag & Krak grenades
. Seraphim Superior: Bolt pistol, Bolt pistol
. Seraphim w/ Special Weapons: 2x Ministorum Hand Flamers
. Seraphim w/ Special Weapons: 2x Ministorum Hand Flamers

+ Heavy Support +

Retributor Squad [6 PL, 130pts]: 2x Armourium Cherub
. Retributor Superior
. . Bolt Pistol & Boltgun
. Retributor w/ Heavy Weapon: Multi-melta
. Retributor w/ Heavy Weapon: Ministorum Heavy Flamer
. Retributor w/ Heavy Weapon: Ministorum Heavy Flamer
. Retributor w/ Heavy Weapon: Multi-melta

+ Dedicated Transport +

Sororitas Rhino [4 PL, 80pts]

++ Total: [98 PL, -5CP, 2,000pts] ++

Deathwatch

As a Poster, it is of course vital for me to maintain a permanent list of slights and blood feuds, and I distinctly recall a comment on the last tier list along the lines of “glad Goonhammer have finally admitted Deathwatch are bad”. Well SURPRISE – turns out there was good stuff in the book all along.

Particularly with the rise of Drukhari, some of the strengths of the Deathwatch Codex have finally been discovered – notably, that using the Dominus Aegis and Vhorkan-Pattern Auspicator creates one of the best Redemptor Dreadnought firebases available, with access to some very flexible additional tricks and datasheets in support. Both ultra-shooty builds like the one below and lists using Proteus Kill Teams that split off Biker/VenVet combat squads have seen considerable success through the year, though more recently the best Black Templar and Iron Hands lists have kind of eclipsed them. However, also appearing recently has been the Kill Team Strike Force, a strong Army of Renown that provides a very different angle on the army, which is high-speed melee pressure.

Deathwatch have finally settled into the position we kind of always expected them to land in – there’s enough wild stuff you can do with them that there are always going to be builds that can succeed, even if they don’t quite have the linear strength of the best Chapters.

Sample List (Shooty) – Alex Harrison – 2nd Place London GT Super Major September 2021

Army List - Click to Expand

++ Battalion Detachment 0CP (Imperium – Adeptus Astartes – Deathwatch) [105 PL, 4CP, 2,000pts] ++

+ Configuration +

Battle Size [12CP]: 3. Strike Force (101-200 Total PL / 1001-2000 Points)

Chapter Selection: Deathwatch

Detachment Command Cost

+ Stratagems +

Relics of the Chapter [-2CP]: 2x Number of Extra Relics

+ No Force Org Slot +

Company Veterans [3 PL, 40pts]
. Company Veteran: Bolt pistol, Boltgun, Frag & Krak grenades
. Company Veteran Sergeant: Bolt pistol, Boltgun, Frag & Krak grenades

+ HQ +

Primaris Captain [5 PL, -1CP, 105pts]: Dominus Aegis, Frag & Krak grenades, Rites of War, Stratagem: A Vigil Unmatched, Warlord
. 2. Paragon of their Chapter: Dark Angels: Brilliant Strategist
. Heavy bolt pistol, Master-crafted power sword and Relic shield: Heavy Bolt Pistol, Master-crafted power sword, Relic Shield

Techmarine [4 PL, -1CP, 70pts]: 3. Nowhere to Hide (Aura), Boltgun, Frag & Krak grenades, Omnissian power axe, Servo-arm, Stratagem: Hero of the Chapter, The Tome of Ectoclades

Techmarine [4 PL, 70pts]: Boltgun, Frag & Krak grenades, Omnissian power axe, Servo-arm, Vhorkan-Pattern Auspicator

+ Troops +

Deathwatch Veterans [8 PL, 140pts]
. Deathwatch Veteran w/ Heavy Weapon: Deathwatch Frag Cannon, Frag & Krak grenades
. Deathwatch Veteran w/ Heavy Weapon: Deathwatch Frag Cannon, Frag & Krak grenades
. Deathwatch Veteran w/ Heavy Weapon: Deathwatch Frag Cannon, Frag & Krak grenades
. Deathwatch Veteran w/ Heavy Weapon: Deathwatch Frag Cannon, Frag & Krak grenades
. Watch Sergeant: Deathwatch Shotgun, Frag & Krak grenades

+ Elites +

Redemptor Dreadnought [9 PL, 185pts]: 2x Storm Bolters, Icarus Rocket Pod, Macro Plasma Incinerator, Onslaught Gatling Cannon, Redemptor Fist

Relic Contemptor Dreadnought [8 PL, -1CP, 175pts]: Cyclone missile launcher, 2x Twin volkite culverin

Relic Contemptor Dreadnought [8 PL, -1CP, 150pts]: 2x Twin volkite culverin

+ Heavy Support +

Sicaran Arcus [10 PL, -1CP, 170pts]: Arcus multi-launcher, Heavy bolter

+ Dedicated Transport +

Drop Pod [4 PL, 70pts]: Storm bolter

++ Total: [105 PL, 4CP, 2,000pts] ++

Sample List (Kill Team Strike Force) – Michael Costello – 14th Place LCGT Supermajor

Army List - Click to Expand

Note: This list pre-dates the FAQ ruling that Speed of the Primarch essentially doesn’t work when applied with Honoured Veteran of the Watch.

++ Battalion Detachment 0CP (Imperium – Adeptus Astartes – Deathwatch) [108 PL, 10CP, 2,000pts] ++

+ Configuration +

Army of Renown – Kill Team Strike Force

Battle Size [12CP]: 3. Strike Force (101-200 Total PL / 1001-2000 Points)

Chapter Selection: Deathwatch

Detachment Command Cost

+ Stratagems +

Strategem: Relics of the Chapter [-1CP]: Number of Extra Relics

+ HQ +

Primaris Chaplain on Bike [7 PL, 140pts]: 5. Recitation of Focus, 6. Canticle of Hate (Aura), Chapter Command: Master of Sanctity, Litany of Hate, The Beacon Angelis, Warlord, Wise Orator

Watch Master [7 PL, 130pts]

+ Troops +

Fortis Kill Team [17 PL, 280pts]: Aquila
. 5x Hellblaster w/ Assault plasma incinerator: 5x Assault Plasma Incinerator, 5x Bolt pistol, 5x Frag & Krak grenades
. Intercessor Sergeant: Astartes Chainsword, Auto Bolt Rifle
. 4x Intercessor w/ Auto Bolt Rifle: 4x Auto Bolt Rifle, 4x Bolt pistol, 4x Frag & Krak grenades

Proteus Kill Team [18 PL, -1CP, 337pts]: Dominatus, Jump Packs
. Black Shield: Astartes Chainsword, Thunder hammer
. Deathwatch Terminator
. . Thunder hammer and Storm shield: Thunder hammer
. Deathwatch Terminator
. . Thunder hammer and Storm shield: Thunder hammer
. Deathwatch Veteran: Deathwatch Boltgun, Storm shield
. Deathwatch Veteran: Deathwatch Boltgun, Storm shield
. Deathwatch Veteran: Deathwatch Boltgun, Storm shield
. Deathwatch Veteran: Astartes Chainsword, Deathwatch Boltgun
. Vanguard Veteran: Lightning Claw, Storm shield
. Veteran Biker: Astartes Chainsword
. Watch Sergeant: Combat shield, Heavy thunder hammer, Stratagem: Honoured Veteran of the Watch
. . 2. Paragon of their Chapter: Blood Angels: Speed of the Primarch

Proteus Kill Team [18 PL, 324pts]: Dominatus, Jump Packs
. Black Shield: 2x Lightning Claw
. Deathwatch Terminator
. . Thunder hammer and Storm shield: Thunder hammer
. Deathwatch Terminator
. . Thunder hammer and Storm shield: Thunder hammer
. Deathwatch Veteran: Deathwatch Boltgun, Storm shield
. Deathwatch Veteran: Deathwatch Boltgun, Storm shield
. Deathwatch Veteran: Deathwatch Boltgun, Storm shield
. Deathwatch Veteran: Astartes Chainsword, Deathwatch Boltgun
. Vanguard Veteran: Astartes Chainsword, Storm shield
. Veteran Biker: Astartes Chainsword
. Watch Sergeant: Heavy thunder hammer

Proteus Kill Team [19 PL, 340pts]: Jump Packs, Malleus
. Black Shield: Astartes Chainsword, Thunder hammer
. Deathwatch Terminator
. . Thunder hammer and Storm shield: Thunder hammer
. Deathwatch Terminator
. . Thunder hammer and Storm shield: Thunder hammer
. Deathwatch Veteran: Deathwatch Boltgun, Storm shield
. Deathwatch Veteran: Deathwatch Boltgun, Storm shield
. Deathwatch Veteran: Deathwatch Boltgun, Storm shield
. Deathwatch Veteran: Astartes Chainsword, Deathwatch Boltgun
. Vanguard Veteran: Astartes Chainsword, Storm shield
. Veteran Biker: Astartes Chainsword
. Watch Sergeant: Heavy thunder hammer

Proteus Kill Team [13 PL, 294pts]: Aquila
. Black Shield: Storm bolter, Thunder hammer
. Deathwatch Veteran: Storm bolter, Storm shield
. Deathwatch Veteran: Storm bolter, Storm shield
. Deathwatch Veteran: Storm bolter, Storm shield
. Deathwatch Veteran: Storm bolter, Storm shield
. Deathwatch Veteran: Astartes Chainsword, Storm bolter
. Deathwatch Veteran: Astartes Chainsword, Storm bolter
. Deathwatch Veteran: Astartes Chainsword, Storm bolter
. Deathwatch Veteran: Astartes Chainsword, Storm bolter
. Watch Sergeant: Storm bolter, Thunder hammer

+ Elites +

Judiciar [5 PL, 85pts]: The Armour Indomitus

+ Dedicated Transport +

Drop Pod [4 PL, 70pts]: Storm bolter

++ Total: [108 PL, 10CP, 2,000pts] ++

Thousand Sons

Thousand Sons join Sisters as a very well pitched codex, with some clear things they do extremely well proving enough to earn them a place in the metagame, but also some clear weaknesses that stop them being dominant. In their favour, a Thousand Sons psychic phase is an absolute trip (as it should be), Rubricae are a really good core Troop unit now, Spawn are surprisingly strong, and Scarab Occult bricks provide a mixture of lumbering inevitabliity and highly potent grinding firepower. The Characters also rule, some of the Cults provide some standout power (most notably Duplicity and Time) and the various supporting weirdo units are all seeing at least fringe play.

The army’s weaknesses are twofold – their firepower reach is constrained (though this can be patched a bit with an Orrery-buffed VolCon) and they struggle against Grey Knights and Sisters, both of whom are very effective at shutting down their psychic nonsense. That hasn’t stopped them putting up some good results, and they will dumpster the unprepared (as I personally experienced to my cost in my first game against them).

Sample List – Mike Porter – 3rd Place UKTC Coventry Major

Army List - Click to Expand

+ Battalion Detachment 0CP (Chaos – Thousand Sons) [10 Cabal Points, 68 PL, 1,262pts, 10CP] ++

+ Configuration +

Cults of the Legion: Cult of Duplicity

+ Stratagems +

Sorcerous Arcana [-1CP]: Additional Relics

+ HQ +

Exalted Sorcerer [3 Cabal Points, 6 PL, 100pts]: 11. Tzeentch’s Firestorm, 22. Weaver of Fates, Inferno Bolt Pistol, Umbralefic Crystal

Thousand Sons Daemon Prince [3 Cabal Points, 10 PL, 185pts]: 13. Doombolt, 31. Empyric Guidance, Egleighen’s Orrery, Hellforged sword, Master Misinformator, Warlord, Wings

+ Troops +

Rubric Marines [1 Cabal Points, 6 PL, 105pts] . Aspiring Sorcerer: 23. Temporal Surge, Inferno Bolt Pistol
. 4x Rubric Marine w/ inferno boltgun: 4x Inferno boltgun

Rubric Marines [1 Cabal Points, 12 PL, 177pts] . Aspiring Sorcerer: 32. Pyric Flux, Inferno Bolt Pistol
. Rubric Marine w/ inferno boltgun
. 5x Rubric Marine w/ warpflamer: 5x Warpflamer

+ Elites +

Chaos Contemptor Dreadnought [8 PL, 175pts, -1CP]: Hellforged cyclone missile launcher, 2x Twin volkite culverin

+ Fast Attack +

Chaos Spawn [5 PL, 115pts] . 5x Chaos Spawn: 5x Hideous mutations

+ Dedicated Transport +

Chaos Rhino [4 PL, 80pts]

++ Patrol Detachment -2CP (Chaos – Thousand Sons) [5 Cabal Points, 36 PL, 730pts, -2CP] ++

+ Configuration +

Cults of the Legion: Cult of Time

Detachment Command Cost [-2CP]

+ HQ +

Ahriman [3 Cabal Points, 9 PL, 180pts]: 12. Glamour of Tzeentch, 21. Presage, 23. Temporal Surge, Disc of Tzeentch

+ Troops +

Rubric Marines [1 Cabal Points, 6 PL, 105pts] . Aspiring Sorcerer: 23. Temporal Surge, Inferno Bolt Pistol
. 4x Rubric Marine w/ inferno boltgun: 4x Inferno boltgun

+ Elites +

Scarab Occult Terminators [1 Cabal Points, 21 PL, 445pts]: 2x Hellfyre missile rack
. Scarab Occult Sorcerer: 12. Twist of Fate, Inferno combi-bolter, Rites of Coalescence
. 7x Terminator: 7x Inferno combi-bolter, 7x Prosperine khopesh
. Terminator w/ Heavy Weapon: Soulreaper cannon
. Terminator w/ Heavy Weapon: Soulreaper cannon

++ Total: [15 Cabal Points, 104 PL, 8CP, 1,992pts] ++

Aeldari Soup

Realistically this placing is for exactly one Aeldari Soup build – Harlequins and Craftworlds. The Harlequins’ classic Bikes and Boats strategy was one of the lists to beat in early 9th, and while it has dropped off a bit in power over time, the core threat it presents is still very real, combining hyper-mobile melta weapons, powerful melee and some deadly herohammer. However, the metagame in general has gotten stronger since then, and to stay fully competitive the best Harlequin builds have mixed in the best Craftworld units – namely the artillery. Adding Tempest Launchers and/or Night Spinners helps the clowns control the pace of the game a bit more, and lets them pick off straggling objective holders without having to commit a full unit.

More recently, Shining Spears proved particularly good in a Grey Knight heavy metagame, as they can reliably trade up into an Interceptor unit, but have fallen out of favour a bit as Talos and Orks have risen. Still, this is definitely the best way to play either Harlequins or Craftworlds right now, and is notable as one of the very, very few builds that has maintained a positive win rate against Drukhari over time. Craftworld artillery can also be combined with Drukhari to reasonable effect, but that’s more of a tier 3 build and there isn’t any clear reason (except stubborness, speaking for myself) to run it over pure Drukhari.

Sample List – Mike Porter – 1st Place Goonhammer Open UK

Army List - Click to Expand

++ Battalion Detachment 0CP (Aeldari – Harlequins) [65 PL, 1,335pts, 10CP] ++

+ Configuration +

Masque Form: The Soaring Spite: Serpent’s Blood

+ Stratagems +

Enigmas of the Black Library (1 Relic) [-1CP]

+ HQ +

Shadowseer [6 PL, 120pts]: Neuro Disruptor, Shards of Light, Twilight Pathways, Veil of Illusion

Troupe Master [4 PL, 70pts, -1CP]: Choreographer of War, Darkness’ Bite, Fusion Pistol, Harlequin’s Blade, Soaring Spite: Skystrider, Stratagem: Pivotal Role, The Twilight Fang, Warlord

Troupe Master [4 PL, 75pts]: Choreographer of War, Domino Shroud, Fusion Pistol, Harlequin’s Embrace

+ Troops +

Troupe [5 PL, 120pts] . Player: Fusion Pistol, Harlequin’s Embrace
. Player: Fusion Pistol, Harlequin’s Embrace
. Player: Fusion Pistol, Harlequin’s Embrace
. Player: Fusion Pistol, Harlequin’s Embrace
. Player: Fusion Pistol, Harlequin’s Embrace

+ Fast Attack +

Skyweavers [15 PL, 270pts] . Skyweaver: Haywire Cannon, Zephyrglaive
. Skyweaver: Haywire Cannon, Zephyrglaive
. Skyweaver: Haywire Cannon, Zephyrglaive
. Skyweaver: Haywire Cannon, Zephyrglaive
. Skyweaver: Haywire Cannon, Star Bolas

+ Dedicated Transport +

Starweaver [4 PL, 80pts]

++ Spearhead Detachment -3CP (Aeldari – Craftworlds) [32 PL, 663pts, -3CP] ++

+ Configuration +

Craftworld Attribute
. *Custom Craftworld*: Expert Crafters, Masterful Shots

Detachment Command Cost [-3CP]

+ HQ +

Farseer Skyrunner [7 PL, 135pts]: 0. Smite, 2. Doom, 4. Executioner, Shuriken Pistol, Witchblade

+ Fast Attack +

Shining Spears [5 PL, 105pts] . 2x Shining Spear: 2x Laser Lance, 2x Twin Shuriken Catapult
. Shining Spear Exarch: Laser Lance
. . Exarch Power: Skilled Rider

+ Heavy Support +

Dark Reapers [5 PL, 106pts] . 2x Dark Reaper: 2x Reaper Launcher
. Dark Reaper Exarch: Tempest Launcher
. . Exarch Power: Crack Shot

++ Total: [97 PL, 7CP, 1,998pts] ++

Adeptus Custodes

Custodes have nearly completed the march through 9th to their book and are ending it pretty much as they started – comfortably above fine. Hyper-durable Telemons and hard-to-shift ObSec infantry with a whole host of defensive Stratagems have kept this army occupying objectives for 18 months, never unreasonably dominant thanks to their low model count, but always a threat.

Sample List – Alun Perkins – 1st Place London Open August 2021

Army List - Click to Expand

++ Battalion Detachment 0CP (Imperium – Adeptus Custodes) [100 PL, 2,000pts, 8CP] ++

Shield Host: Shadowkeepers

+ Stratagems +

Open the Vaults [-1CP]: Open the Vaults: 1 Extra Relic

+ HQ +

Shield-Captain on Dawneagle Jetbike [9 PL, 178pts, -1CP]: Auric Aquilas, Captain-Commander, Indomitable Constitution, Misericordia, Salvo Launcher, Superior Creation, Warlord

Shield-Captain on Dawneagle Jetbike [9 PL, 178pts, -1CP]: Eagle’s Eye, Lockwarden, Misericordia, Salvo Launcher, Ten Thousand Heroes

+ Troops +

Custodian Guard Squad [7 PL, 156pts]
. Custodian: Sentinel Blade, Storm Shield
. Custodian: Sentinel Blade, Storm Shield
. Custodian: Sentinel Blade, Storm Shield

Custodian Guard Squad [7 PL, 149pts]
. Custodian: Sentinel Blade, Storm Shield
. Custodian: Sentinel Blade, Storm Shield
. Custodian: Guardian Spear

Sagittarum Custodians [7 PL, 159pts]
. Sagittarum Custodian: Misericordia
. Sagittarum Custodian: Misericordia
. Sagittarum Custodian: Misericordia

+ Elites +

Contemptor-Galatus Dreadnought [9 PL, 170pts, -1CP]: Eternal Penitent

Prosecutors [3 PL, 60pts]: Sister Superior
. 4x Prosecutor: 4x Boltgun, 4x Psyk-Out Grenades

Vexilus Praetor in Allarus Terminator Armor [7 PL, 125pts]: Vexilla Magnifica

+ Fast Attack +

Venatari Custodians [16 PL, 275pts]
. Venatari Custodian
. . Kinetic Destroyer and Tarsus Buckler
. Venatari Custodian
. . Kinetic Destroyer and Tarsus Buckler
. Venatari Custodian
. . Kinetic Destroyer and Tarsus Buckler
. Venatari Custodian
. . Kinetic Destroyer and Tarsus Buckler
. Venatari Custodian
. . Kinetic Destroyer and Tarsus Buckler

Vertus Praetors [12 PL, 255pts]
. Vertus Praetor: Salvo Launcher
. Vertus Praetor: Salvo Launcher
. Vertus Praetor: Salvo Launcher

+ Heavy Support +

Telemon Heavy Dreadnought [14 PL, 295pts]: Arachnus Storm Cannon
. Telemon Caestus

++ Total: [100 PL, 8CP, 2,000pts] ++

Adeptus Mechanicus

How the mighty have fallen. Up until the Balance Dataslate the Adeptus Mechanicus would have been sitting pretty with Drukhari in the S-tier, probably ahead of them, but they took a far more palpable hit from the update, to the point where keeping them at the bottom of Tier 2 rather than the top of Tier 3 may even prove over-optimistic. My impression is that the best Mars/Lucius builds are still capable of competing at this level – the lists still have some extreme anti-heavy firepower from the number of Cognis Lascannons they can field, and plenty of durable Lucius infantry, which means they can still pivot between a lethal alpha strike and strong durability using Canticles/Doctrinas. These armies get far, far less supporting stuff than they once did though, meaning that a determined opponent can potentially push back hard and triumph rather than getting overwhelmed. We’ll see in the new year how this plays out.

Sample List – Jakub Falkowski – 2nd Place Polhammer 40K

Army List - Click to Expand

+++++Battalion Detachmet <Lucius> (0 CP)+++++

HQ1: Skitari Marshal (55), Mechanicus Locum: Battle-sphere uplink, Archeotech Specialist: Examplars Eternity <Lucius> [55, 3PL]
HQ2: Manipulus (80), Warlord: Luminescent Blessing, Relic: Solar Flare, Holy Orders – Logi (40) <Lucius> [120, 6PL]

Troops1: 20x Skitari Rangers (180), Omnispex (10), Host of the Intermediary: Programmed Retreat <Lucius> [190, 8PL]
Troops2: 20x Skitari Rangers (180), Omnispex (10) <Lucius> [190, 8PL]
Troops3: 20x Skitari Vanguard (180), Omnispex (10) <Lucius> [190, 8PL]

EL1: 5x Infiltrators (95), 5x flechette and taser goad (0) <Lucius> [95, 4PL]
EL2: 5x Infiltrators (95), 5x flechette and taser goad (0) <Lucius> [95, 4PL]

+++++Outrider Detachment <Mars> (-3CP)+++++

HQ1: Tech-priest Engineseer (55) <Mars> [55, 3PL]

FA1: 2x Ironstrider Ballistarii (150), 2x Twin cognis lascannon (20) <Mars> [170, 8PL]
FA2: 2x Ironstrider Ballistarii (150), 2x Twin cognis lascannon (20) <Mars> [170, 8PL]
FA3: 2x Ironstrider Ballistarii (150), 2x Twin cognis lascannon (20) <Mars> [170, 8PL]
FA2: 5x Pteraxi Sterylizors (95) <Mars> [95, 4PL]

FLY1: Archaeopter Stratoraptor (180), chaff launcher (20) <Mars> [200, 9PL]
FLY2: Archaeopter Stratoraptor (180), chaff launcher (20) <Mars> [200, 9PL]

Tier 3

Imperial Knights

Imperial Knights are really trying to knock on the doors of Tier 2, but their giant hands keep glancing off the doorframe. This is a metaphor for being bad at Secondaries I guess. That’s their key problem – the army can usually handle Engage/Stranglehold and Grind, but is at the mercy of the opponent’s list or the mission to provide a third (and the latter option goes away with the new Nachmund pack).

Outside of that, Knights look increasingly awesome. The Freeblade Lance has proven to be the real deal, now allowing for an all-ObSec Knight army after the Balance Dataslate, while going down-the-line with Krast or Raven is also viable. All these builds can apply big pressure and big damage, but the risk of being down a Secondary in a key game sandbags their ability to reliably win events enough to keep them in Tier 3, but a far more optimistic Tier 3 than previously.

Sample List – Brian Jones – 9th Place GW US Open Austin

Army List - Click to Expand

++ Super-Heavy Detachment 0CP (Imperium – Imperial Knights) [102 PL, 2,000pts, 6CP] ++
Household Choice: Freeblade Lance, Questor Allegiance <Mixed>

+ Stratagems [-4CP] +
Exalted Court [-1CP]: Exalted Court: 1 Extra Warlord Trait [-1CP]
Heirlooms of the Household [-3CP]: Heirlooms of the Household: 2 Extra Heirlooms [-3CP]

+ Lord of War [102 PL, 2,000pts, -2CP] +

Knight Castellan [32 PL, 635pts, -2CP]: Character (Exalted Court), Favoured Knight [-2CP], Freeblade, Heirloom: Armour of the Sainted Ion, Heirloom: Cawl’s Wrath, Plasma Decimator, Titanic Feet, 2x Twin Meltagun, Volcano Lance, Warlord, Warlord Trait (Mechanicus): Cold Eradication
. Qualities and Burdens (Legendary Knight): Burden: Exiled in Shame, Quality: Legendary Hero, Quality: Sworn to a Quest
. Two Siegebreaker Cannons and Two Shieldbreaker Missiles [30pts]: 2x Shieldbreaker Missile, 2x Twin Siegebreaker Cannon [30pts]

Knight Moiraxes [16 PL, 310pts]
. Knight Moirax [8 PL, 155pts]: Character (Knight Lance), Freeblade, 2x Lightning Lock
. . Qualities and Burdens (Legendary Knight): Burden: Driven to Slaughter, Quality: Indomitable, Quality: Mysterious Guardian
. Knight Moirax [8 PL, 155pts]: Freeblade, 2x Lightning Lock
. . Qualities and Burdens
. . . Chosen Burdens: Burden: Impetuous Nature, Burden: Weary Machine Spirit
. . . Chosen Qualities: Quality: Last of their Line

Knight Moiraxes [8 PL, 155pts]
. Knight Moirax [8 PL, 155pts]: Freeblade, 2x Lightning Lock
. . Qualities and Burdens
. . . Chosen Burdens: Burden: Haunted by Failure, Burden: Obsessed with Vengeance
. . . Chosen Qualities: Quality: Indomitable

Knight Preceptor [22 PL, 420pts]: Character (Heirloom of the House), Freeblade, Heirloom: Sanctuary, Ironstorm Missile Pod [15pts], Las-Impulsor, Multi-laser, Reaper Chainsword, Titanic Feet
. Qualities and Burdens (Legendary Knight): Burden: Exiled in Shame, Quality: Legendary Hero, Quality: Sworn to a Quest

Questoris Knight Magaera [24 PL, 480pts]: Character (Heirloom of the House), Freeblade, Heirloom: Banner of Macharius Triumphant, Lightning Cannon, Phased Plasma-Fusil, Titanic Feet
. Hekaton Siege Claw and Twin Rad-Cleanser: Hekaton Siege Claw, Twin Rad-Cleanser
. Qualities and Burdens (Legendary Knight): Burden: Exiled in Shame, Quality: Legendary Hero, Quality: Peerless Warrior
. Warlord Trait (Freeblade): Echoes from the Past: Household Tradition: Relentless Advance

++ Total: [102 PL, 2,000pts, 6CP] ++

Chaos Knights

Much of what is true about Imperial Knights is true about their evil cousins as well. As of the Balance Dataslate, Knights are closer than ever to being a real threat, but the lack of a good third secondary really hurts them. In terms of specific builds that are good, Chaos Knights are slightly more drawn to either War Dog spam or one big Knight and lots of War Dogs, as they don’t have the ability to easily hand ObSec out to a trio of big Knights, and the relic/trait selection for outfitting Titanic units is weaker. In trade for this, however, their War Dogs tend to outperform armigers, as splitting Warglaives and Moiraxes into Iconoclast and Infernal households respectively provides a wellspring of power that outclasses any benefits the Imperium can apply. A notable outcome of this is that Chaos Knights have that rarest of things – a good matchup against Drukhari. Going wide with lots of Armigers can overwhelm the ranged anti-tank the Dark Kin possess, and the mix of lots of melta and lots of lightning locks can chew through Talos and Raiders fast.

Sample List – Adam Baker – 6th Place Lightly Salted Holiday GT

Army List - Click to Expand

+++ Chaos knights 9E (Warhammer 40,000 9th Edition) [105 PL, 2,000pts, 8CP] +++

++ Super-Heavy Detachment 0CP (Chaos – Chaos Knights) [105 PL, 2,000pts, 8CP] ++

+ Configuration +

Battle Size [12CP]: 3. Strike Force (101-200 Total PL / 1001-2000 Points)

Detachment Command Cost

Dread Household: Abominable Constitution, Custom Household, Pride-fuelled Fury

+ Stratagems +

Corrupted Heirlooms [-1CP]: One model

Tyrannical Court [-1CP]: One model

+ Lord of War +

Chaos Questoris Knight Magaera [24 PL, 480pts]: 3. Knight Diabolus, Character (Traitoris Lance), Khornate Target, Lightning cannon, Phased plasma-fusil, Titanic feet, Warlord
. Hekaton siege claw: Twin rad cleanser

Chaos Questoris Knight Magaera [24 PL, 480pts, -1CP]: Lightning cannon, Phased plasma-fusil, Titanic feet, Vow of Carnage
. Hekaton siege claw: Twin rad cleanser

Knight Despoiler [25 PL, 480pts, -1CP]: 1. Infernal Quest, Character (Tyrannical Court), Corrupted Heirloom, Heavy stubber, Helm of Warpsight, Ironstorm missile pod, 2x Thermal cannon, Titanic feet, Vow of the Beastslayer

War Dogs [16 PL, 280pts]
. War Dog: Meltagun, Thermal spear and Reaper chain-cleaver
. War Dog: Meltagun, Thermal spear and Reaper chain-cleaver

Sample List (War Dog Spam) – Dawid Szmyt – 9th Place LCGT Supermajor

Army List - Click to Expand

Note: Strictly, War Dog Moiraxes do not have the WAR DOG keyword needed for Harrying Packs, so make sure you check how your event is ruling that if copying this list.

Super Heavy Detachment -3CP (Chaos Knights) [ 72PL, 1225pts]

Iconoclast Household: Abominable Constitution, Pride-Fuelled Fury

-LoW-

War Dog [24PL, 415pts] x3, Thermal Spear & Reaper Chain-Cleaver x3, Meltagun x2, Heavy Stubber (War Dog with Meltagun – Warlord, Relic: Khornate Target, Warlord Trait: Knight Diabolus)
War Dog [24PL, 405pts] x3, Thermal Spear & Reaper Chain-Cleaver x3, Heavy Stubber x3
War Dog [24PL, 405pts] x3, Thermal Spear & Reaper Chain-Cleaver x3, Heavy Stubber x3

Super Heavy Detachment -3CP (Chaos Knights) [ 40PL, 775pts]

Infernal Household: Harrying Packs, Dark Forging

-LoW-

War Dog Moirax [24PL, 465pts] x3, Lighting Lock x6
War Dog Moirax [8PL, 155pts], Lighting Lock x2
War Dog Moirax [8PL, 155pts], Lighting Lock x2

Total: 2000pts, 112PL, 6CP

Chaos Soup

There aren’t really any slam dunk Chaos Soup builds at the moment, but there are plenty of ways that you can slam lots of big monsters together and do just fine. Mortarion, Be’lakor, and more recently Chaos Knights that count as multiple models on objectives all provide a heady mix of ingredients for a monster mash, with Daemon detachments being popular inclusions thanks to bringing cheap infantry along with them. Elsewhere, both Death Guard and Thousand Sons have seen some soup usage, as combining Plagueburst Crawlers with Epidemius can be a powerful move, while Scarab Occults don’t lose too much in mixed lists. In short, Chaos Soup is a pretty heady vein of potential builds that show up in top fours now and again, but until one emerges that shows clear, repeated success in the hands of multiple players, it sits just outside Tier 2.

Sample List – Luke Greco – 5th Place NSW 40K Masters

Army List - Click to Expand

++ Super-Heavy Detachment -3CP (Chaos – Chaos Knights) [24 PL, -3CP, 465pts] ++

+ Configuration +

Detachment Command Cost [-3CP]

Dread Household: Custom Household, Endless Torment (counts as 2)

+ Lord of War +

War Dogs [8 PL, 155pts]
. War Dog: 1. Forsaken, 1. Path to Glory, 4. Warp Fugue, Character (Traitoris Lance), Dreadblade, Heavy stubber, Pacts and Damnations, Two War Dog autocannons

War Dogs [8 PL, 155pts]
. War Dog: Heavy stubber, Two War Dog autocannons

++ Battalion Detachment -3CP (Chaos – Daemons) [54 PL, -5CP, 1,045pts] ++

+ Configuration +

Chaos Allegiance: Slaanesh

Detachment Command Cost [-3CP]

+ HQ +

Be’lakor [18 PL, 360pts]: Pall of Despair, Penumbral Curse

Keeper of Secrets [12 PL, -1CP, 230pts]: Delightful Agonies, Hysterical Frenzy, Sinistrous hand, The Forbidden Gem
. Exalted Keeper of Secrets: 3. Blessing of the Dark Prince

Keeper of Secrets [12 PL, -1CP, 230pts]: Delightful Agonies, Pavane of Slaanesh, Sinistrous hand, The Mark of Excess
. Exalted Keeper of Secrets: 2. Quicksilver Reflexes

+ Troops +

Daemonettes [4 PL, 85pts]: Alluress, Daemonic Icon
. 9x Daemonette: 9x Piercing claws

Daemonettes [4 PL, 70pts]: Alluress
. 9x Daemonette: 9x Piercing claws

++ Supreme Command Detachment +3CP (Chaos – Death Guard) [25 PL, 490pts] ++

+ Primarch | Daemon Primarch | Supreme Commander +

Mortarion [25 PL, 490pts]: 1. Miasma of Pestilence, 2. Gift of Contagion, 3. Plague Wind, Gloaming Bloat, Warlord

++ Total: [103 PL, -8CP, 2,000pts] ++

Harlequins

The Harlequins Bikes and Boats list is a little outdated, but can still win games. However, unless you’re aiming for Best Harlequins, there is flatly zero reason to play the pure version over the Aeldari Soup build, and recent results reflect that pretty starkly.

Sample List – Matthew Ehlinger – 4th Place Western Wisconsin Wargaming Weekend

Army List - Click to Expand

++ Battalion Detachment 0CP (Aeldari – Harlequins) [102 PL, 9CP, 1,996pts] ++

+ Configuration +

Masque Form: The Soaring Spite: Serpent’s Blood

+ Stratagems +

Enigmas of the Black Library (1 Relic) [-1CP]

+ HQ +

Shadowseer [6 PL, -1CP, 115pts]: Shards of Light, Shield From Harm, Shuriken Pistol, Stratagem: Pivotal Role, The Shadowstone, Twilight Pathways, Veil of Illusion

Troupe Master [4 PL, -1CP, 70pts]: Choreographer of War, Darkness’ Bite, Fusion Pistol, Harlequin’s Blade, Soaring Spite: Skystrider, Stratagem: Pivotal Role, The Twilight Fang, Warlord

Troupe Master [4 PL, 76pts]: Choreographer of War, Fusion Pistol, Harlequin’s Kiss

+ Troops +

Troupe [5 PL, 105pts] . Player: Fusion Pistol, Harlequin’s Embrace
. Player: Fusion Pistol, Harlequin’s Embrace
. Player: Fusion Pistol, Harlequin’s Blade
. Player: Fusion Pistol, Harlequin’s Blade
. Player: Fusion Pistol, Harlequin’s Blade

Troupe [5 PL, 95pts] . Player: Fusion Pistol, Harlequin’s Blade
. Player: Fusion Pistol, Harlequin’s Blade
. Player: Fusion Pistol, Harlequin’s Blade
. Player: Fusion Pistol, Harlequin’s Blade
. Player: Fusion Pistol, Harlequin’s Blade

+ Elites +

Death Jester [3 PL, 50pts]: Humbling Cruelty

+ Fast Attack +

Skyweavers [10 PL, 220pts] . Skyweaver: Haywire Cannon, Zephyrglaive
. Skyweaver: Haywire Cannon, Zephyrglaive
. Skyweaver: Haywire Cannon, Zephyrglaive
. Skyweaver: Haywire Cannon, Zephyrglaive

Skyweavers [15 PL, 275pts] . Skyweaver: Haywire Cannon, Zephyrglaive
. Skyweaver: Haywire Cannon, Zephyrglaive
. Skyweaver: Haywire Cannon, Zephyrglaive
. Skyweaver: Haywire Cannon, Zephyrglaive
. Skyweaver: Haywire Cannon, Zephyrglaive

+ Dedicated Transport +

Starweaver [4 PL, 80pts]

++ Total: [102 PL, 9CP, 1,996pts] ++

Death Guard

Death Guard are very much in an early codex slump at this point – they’re still OK, and have some units that have stood the test of time (notably Deathshrouds and Plagueburst Crawlers) but their roster is pretty limited and Plague Marines are surprisingly underwhelming on the table given how good their datasheet looks. Their best builds are also very reliant on the VolCon, which they have excellent synergy with in Tollkeeper.

The basic plan of building a castle of Terminators with Revolting Stench Vats backup can still work, but as it has weakened players have been trying alternatives, and one that’s seem a few spikes of significant success is the Terminus Est Assault Force. The ability to absolutely carpet the table in extra speedy poxwalkers can really catch out some opponents, and if you’re a Death Guard player with loads of the models kicking around, maybe give it a try.

Sample List – Allan Davidson – 12th Place Clash of Alba Winter Assault

Army List - Click to Expand

No Force Org Slot: Tallyman [4 PL, 70pts]: PLasma Pistol (Gift of Decay) Relic: Tollkeeper

Death Guard Daemon Prince [10 PL, -1CP, 185pts]: Foetid Wings, Daemonic Axe, Psychic powers 1. Miasma of Pestilence (Plague Chosen) Warlod trait: Revoltingly Resilient,Plaguechosen, Relic : Warp Insect Hive

Lord of Contagion [6 PL, 120pts]: Warlord Trait: Gloaming Bloat, Plaguereaper, Warlord

Troops

Death Guard Cultists [2 PL, 50pts] 1 x Death Guard Cultist Champion 1 x Autogun 9x Death Guard Cultist 9x Autogun

10 x Poxwalkers [2 PL, 50pts]. 10 x improvised Weapons

Elites

Chaos Contemptor Dreadnought [8 PL, -1CP, 175pts]: Hellforged cyclone missile launcher, 2x Twin volkite culverin

Chaos Contemptor Dreadnought [8 PL, -1CP, 150pts]: 2x Twin volkite culverin

4 x Deathshroud Terminators [14 PL, -1CP, 200pts] 4 x plaguespurt Gauntlet & Manreapers (Champion of Disease) Plague Skull of Glothila

3 x Deathshroud Terminators [7 PL, 150pts] 3 x plaguespurt Gauntlet & Manreapers (Champion of Disease) Reaper of Glorious Entropy

Foul Blightspawn [4 PL, 85pts]: (plague chosen) Arch-Contaminator (Gift of Decay) Relic Revolting Stench-vats. (Deadly Pathegeons) Viscous Death PLague Sprayer and unholy Deaths Head Grenade

Fast Attack

5 x Chaos Spawn: 5x Hideous mutations (Grandfatherly Influence -2CP stratagem)

1 x Choas Spawn: 1x Hideous mutations

Plagueburst Crawler [9 PL, 175pts]: 2x Entropy cannon [10pts], Heavy slugger, Plagueburst Mortar

Plagueburst Crawler [9 PL, 175pts]: 2x Entropy cannon [10pts], Plagueburst Mortar, Rothail volley gun

Plagueburst Crawler [9 PL, 175pts]: 2x Entropy cannon [10pts], Heavy slugger, Plagueburst Mortar

Sample List (Terminus Est) – David Horn – 3rd Place LGT 2021

Army List - Click to Expand

++ Battalion Detachment 0CP (Chaos – Death Guard) [99 PL, -4CP, 1,996pts] ++

Total CP at start: 8

+ Configuration +

Plague Company: The Harbingers

Terminus Est Assault Force

+ Stratagems +

Gifts of Decay [-1CP]: Additional Relics

+ HQ +

Malignant Plaguecaster [5 PL, 95pts]: 4. Noxious Discharge, 6. Accelerated Entropy, Bolt pistol, Filth Censers

Malignant Plaguecaster [5 PL, 95pts]: 2. Lungrot, 5. Rotwind, Bolt pistol

Typhus [9 PL, 165pts]: 5. Curse of the Leper, 6. Gift of Plagues, Harbinger of Death, Shamblerot, Warlord

+ Troops +

Poxwalkers [5 PL, 100pts] . 20x Poxwalker: 20x Improvised weapon

Poxwalkers [5 PL, 85pts] . 17x Poxwalker: 17x Improvised weapon

+ Elites +

Blightlord Terminators [10 PL, -1CP, 215pts] . Blightlord Champion: Bubotic Axe, Champion of Disease, Combi-melta, Plague Skull of Glothila
. Blightlord Terminator: Bubotic Axe, Reaper autocannon
. Blightlord Terminator: Flail of corruption
. Blightlord Terminator: Bubotic Axe, Combi-bolter
. Blightlord Terminator: Bubotic Axe, Combi-bolter

Blightlord Terminators [10 PL, 215pts] . Blightlord Champion: Bubotic Axe, Combi-melta
. Blightlord Terminator: Bubotic Axe, Reaper autocannon
. Blightlord Terminator: Flail of corruption
. Blightlord Terminator: Bubotic Axe, Combi-bolter
. Blightlord Terminator: Bubotic Axe, Combi-bolter

Deathshroud Terminators [7 PL, 155pts] . Deathshroud Champion: 2x Plaguespurt gauntlet
. 2x Deathshroud Terminator: 2x Manreaper, 2x Plaguespurt gauntlet

Foul Blightspawn [5 PL, -1CP, 85pts]: 4. Arch-Contaminator, Plaguechosen, Revolting Stench-vats, Viscous Death

Tallyman [4 PL, 70pts]: Tollkeeper

+ Fast Attack +

Chaos Spawn [1 PL, 23pts]: Chaos Spawn

++ Total: [99 PL, -4CP, 1,996pts] ++

White Scars

Speedy melee Marines are never going to be bad, but at this point you can do better on a pure power basis. White Scars retain some of the strengths that fired them to success early on – Vanguard Veterans Advancing and Charging is great, feeding Devastators out of a Rhino with Hunter’s Fusilade is powerful, and the late game damage spike from their superdoctrine is powerful. However, they don’t have much (other than VolCons) that lets them take over the game without committing, and Drukhari and Grey Knights both brutally punish their playstyle (their win rates in these games are truly atrocious). It is fair to say that if you run into Scars with other armies they can sometimes feel more like a Tier 2 build, but rough matchups into two of the most powerful and prevalent factions is a huge problem for nailing event wins.

Sample List – Patrick McAneeny – 2nd Place Tables & Towers Flames of Autumn GT

Army List - Click to Expand

++ Vanguard Detachment -3CP (Imperium – Adeptus Astartes – White Scars) [99 PL, 5CP, 2,000pts] ++

+ Configuration +

**Chapter Selector**: White Scars

+ Stratagems +

Relics of the Chapter [-1CP]: Number of Extra Relics

+ No Force Org Slot +

Company Veterans [3 PL, 40pts]
. Company Veteran: Astartes Chainsword, Boltgun
. Company Veteran Sergeant: Astartes Chainsword, Boltgun

+ HQ +

Khan on Bike [6 PL, 110pts]: Rites of War, Warlord, Wrath of the Heavens

Lieutenants [5 PL, 100pts]
. Lieutenant: Jump Pack, Lightning Claw (Pair), The Hunter’s Eye

+ Elites +

Relic Contemptor Dreadnought [8 PL, -1CP, 150pts]: 2x Twin volkite culverin

Vanguard Veteran Squad [14 PL, 300pts]: Jump Pack
. Vanguard Veteran: Lightning Claw, Storm shield
. Vanguard Veteran: Lightning Claw, Storm shield
. Vanguard Veteran: Lightning Claw, Storm shield
. Vanguard Veteran: Lightning Claw, Storm shield
. Vanguard Veteran: Lightning Claw, Storm shield
. Vanguard Veteran: Lightning Claw, Storm shield
. Vanguard Veteran: Lightning Claw, Storm shield
. Vanguard Veteran: Lightning Claw, Storm shield
. Vanguard Veteran: Lightning Claw, Storm shield
. Vanguard Veteran Sergeant: Lightning Claw, Storm shield

Vanguard Veteran Squad [7 PL, 150pts]: Jump Pack
. Vanguard Veteran: Lightning Claw, Storm shield
. Vanguard Veteran: Lightning Claw, Storm shield
. Vanguard Veteran: Lightning Claw, Storm shield
. Vanguard Veteran: Lightning Claw, Storm shield
. Vanguard Veteran Sergeant: Lightning Claw, Storm shield

+ Heavy Support +

Devastator Squad [8 PL, 185pts]: Armorium Cherub
. Devastator Marine Sergeant: Astartes Chainsword, Combi-melta
. Devastator Marine w/Heavy Weapon: Multi-melta
. Devastator Marine w/Heavy Weapon: Multi-melta
. Devastator Marine w/Heavy Weapon: Multi-melta
. Devastator Marine w/Heavy Weapon: Multi-melta

Devastator Squad [8 PL, 175pts]: Armorium Cherub
. Devastator Marine Sergeant: Astartes Chainsword, Boltgun
. Devastator Marine w/Heavy Weapon: Multi-melta
. Devastator Marine w/Heavy Weapon: Multi-melta
. Devastator Marine w/Heavy Weapon: Multi-melta
. Devastator Marine w/Heavy Weapon: Multi-melta

+ Dedicated Transport +

Land Speeder Storm [3 PL, 55pts]

Rhino [4 PL, 80pts]: Storm bolter

++ Total: [99 PL, 5CP, 2,000pts] ++

Blood Angels

Kind of see above here – Blood Angels trade the pure mobility of Scars for some nifty tricks and sucker punches, but run into the same basic issue that they have to commit to dictate the pace of the game, and will get wrecked when that goes wrong a bit too much of the time to land in Tier 2. Angel’s Sacrifice is still a horrible trick that can blow Drukhari out some of the time, and having access to a Jump Apothecary can provide some staying power in the mid-board, so there are some attractions (and a few dedicated players running them to decent finishes) but it looks a bit uphill these days.

Sample List – Jack Harpster – 4th Place Crucible 9 GT

Army List - Click to Expand

Blood Angel Battalion

Commander Dante – 165
Sanguinary Priest – Chief Apothecary, Selfless Healer, Teeth of Terra, Jump Pack- 155
Primaris Chaplain on Bike- Master of Sanctity, Warlord: Gift of Foresight, Artisan of War: Adamantine Mantle, Armor Indomitus, Canticle of Hate, Mantra of Strength – 140

Troops

5 Incursors – 105
5 Intercessors- 100
5 Intercessors- 100

Elites

Sanguinary Ancient – Wrath of Baal, Rites of War – 110
7 Sanguinary Guard – 224
7 Sanguinary Guard – 224
6 Sanguinary Guard – 192
5 Death Company – 4 Thunder Hammers – 185
10 Vanguard Veterans – LC/SS – 300

Daemons

Be’lakor has given Daemons a shot in the arm, keeping them in the conversation and ensuring that their lists are at least somewhat threatening. You almost always see Be’lakor running alongside Keepers of Secrets, as either gaining the Slaanesh Locus himself or benefitting from it is enormously powerful, and all the Daemon favourites that performed strongly at Edition start can be powerful ingredients alongside. Most recently, builds bringing Big Bird back look the strongest, as the extra attrition and staying power he provides can be valuable. The resulting lists are pretty scary, and tend to have slightly better Secondary options than Knights, but as with any monster mash-style list they’re very vulnerable to hitting one bad game as they navigate through an event.

Sample List – Scott LaFountain – 8th Place SoCal Open

Army List - Click to Expand

++ Battalion Detachment 0CP (Chaos – Daemons) [49 PL, 11CP, 998pts] ++

+ Configuration +

Chaos Allegiance: Chaos Undivided

+ HQ +

Be’lakor [18 PL, 360pts]: Betraying Shades, Pall of Despair, Smite, The Blade of Shadows

Lord of Change [14 PL, -1CP, 295pts]: Baleful sword, Bolt of Change, Gaze of Fate, Incorporeal Form, Infernal Gateway, Smite, Staff of Tzeentch, The Impossible Robe, Warlord
. Exalted Lord of Change: 5. Aura of Mutability

Poxbringer [4 PL, 75pts]: Balesword, Fleshy Abundance, Smite

+ Troops +

Nurglings [3 PL, 66pts] . 3x Nurgling Swarms: 3x Diseased claws and teeth

+ Elites +

Beasts of Nurgle [2 PL, 35pts] . Beast of Nurgle: Putrid appendages

++ Battalion Detachment -3CP (Chaos – Daemons) [52 PL, -7CP, 1,000pts] ++

+ Configuration +

Chaos Allegiance: Slaanesh

Detachment Command Cost [-3CP]

+ Stratagems +

Rewards of Chaos (1 Relic) [-1CP]

+ HQ +

Keeper of Secrets [12 PL, -1CP, 230pts]: Cacophonic Choir, Delightful Agonies, Exalted Keeper of Secrets, Sinistrous hand, Smite, Snapping claws, Witstealer sword

Keeper of Secrets [12 PL, -1CP, 240pts]: Exalted Keeper of Secrets, Hysterical Frenzy, Pavane of Slaanesh, Shining aegis, Smite, Snapping claws, The Forbidden Gem, Witstealer sword

Keeper of Secrets [12 PL, -1CP, 240pts]: Delightful Agonies, Exalted Keeper of Secrets, Hysterical Frenzy, Shining aegis, Smite, Snapping claws, Witstealer sword

+ Troops +

Daemonettes [4 PL, 70pts] . Alluress: Piercing claws
. 9x Daemonette: 9x Piercing claws

+ Elites +

Fiends [4 PL, 80pts] . 2x Fiend: 2x Dissecting claws, 2x Vicious barbed tail

++ Total: [101 PL, 4CP, 1,998pts] ++

Salamanders

Joining the White Scars in a gradual slide from their early edition placing, Salamanders do still have a powerful, broad set of stratagems and upgrades, but if you want an all-rounder Goodstuff Marine list (which is what they were generally used for) you are definitely better with Black Templars at this point. That having been said the current metagame is arguably the kindest to the Salamanders it has been for ages, and they could be positioned for a bit of a renaissance. Turns out that when your special deal is being the melta chapter, the metagame being taken over by Damage Reduction Talos is pretty good news for you, as the recent success of Tim’s build below showed off in style.

Sample List – Tim Doran – 4th Place Renegade Open

Army List - Click to Expand

++ Battalion Detachment 0CP (Imperium – Adeptus Astartes – Salamanders) [104 PL, 7CP, 2,000pts] ++

+ Configuration +

**Chapter Selector**: Salamanders

Battle Size [12CP]: 3. Strike Force (101-200 Total PL / 1001-2000 Points)

Detachment Command Cost

+ Stratagems +

Strategem: Relics of the Chapter [-1CP]: Number of Extra Relics

+ No Force Org Slot +

Servitors [2 PL, 30pts]: 4x Servo-arm

+ HQ +

Captain on Bike [6 PL, -1CP, 120pts]: Bolt pistol, Never Give Up, Storm of Fire, Stratagem: Exemplar of the Promethean Creed, Thunder hammer, Vulkan’s Sigil, Warlord

Techmarine [5 PL, -1CP, 90pts]: Boltgun, Chapter Command: Master of the Forge, Obsidian Aquila, Omnissian power axe, Servo-arm, Stratagem: Hero of the Chapter, Warden of the Ancients

+ Troops +

Intercessor Squad [5 PL, 100pts]: Auto Bolt Rifle
. 4x Intercessor: 4x Bolt pistol, 4x Frag & Krak grenades
. Intercessor Sergeant

+ Elites +

Redemptor Dreadnought [9 PL, 180pts]: 2x Storm Bolters, Macro Plasma Incinerator, Onslaught Gatling Cannon

Relic Contemptor Dreadnought [8 PL, -1CP, 150pts]
. Dreadnought melee weapon: Dreadnought combat weapon, Heavy flamer
. Twin volkite culverin

Relic Contemptor Dreadnought [8 PL, -1CP, 150pts]: 2x Twin volkite culverin

+ Fast Attack +

Land Speeders [3 PL, 70pts]
. Land Speeder: Multi-melta

+ Heavy Support +

Eliminator Squad [5 PL, 75pts]: Bolt sniper rifle
. Eliminator Sergeant: Bolt sniper rifle
. 2x Eliminators: 2x Bolt pistol, 2x Camo cloak, 2x Frag & Krak grenades

Eradicator Squad [14 PL, 270pts]: Melta rifle
. 5x Eradicator: 5x Bolt pistol
. Eradicator Sgt

++ Total: [104 PL, 7CP, 2,000pts] ++

Tier 4

Necrons

Necrons picked up one of the biggest boosts from the Balance Dataslate, and are now tragically close to escaping the grip of Tier 4, but just not quite there yet. The good news is that from the builds that have been kicking around since the update and some of my own testing, all it’s going to take are some moderately kind points changes in the new year and the spooky skeleton hordes should be able to compete once again. Necrons big strengths are access to army-wide ObSec and relatively efficient speedy units to deliver it with, C’tan throwing a real curveball at some armies, and the Silent King being pretty great (and hideable behind Obscuring terrain, ever more valuable). Their weaknesses are that they flat out don’t have enough stuff in their lists, and that their big guns are medicore outside of a few exceptions. The stuff problem is eminently fixable with points – let’s hope that happens.

Sample List – Seth Piper – 1st Place Dicehead Holiday Event

Army List - Click to Expand

++ Battalion Detachment -3CP (Necrons) [78 PL, 1,549pts, 6CP] ++

+ Configuration +

Battle Size [12CP]: 3. Strike Force (101-200 Total PL / 1001-2000 Points)

Detachment Command Cost [-3CP]

Dynasty Choice: Dynasty: Mephrit

+ No Force Org Slot +

Dynastic Advisor [4 PL, 80pts, -1CP] . Technomancer: Canoptek Cloak, Dynastic Heirlooms, Relic: Voltaic Staff

+ HQ +

Chronomancer [4 PL, 90pts]: Entropic Lance, Relic: Veil of Darkness

Overlord [6 PL, 130pts, -2CP]: Dynastic Heirlooms, Rarefied Nobility, Relic: Orb of Eternity, Resurrection Orb, Warlord Trait (Mephrit): Merciless Tyrant, Warscythe

+ Troops +

Immortals [4 PL, 85pts]: Gauss Blaster, 5x Immortal

Necron Warriors [12 PL, 260pts] . 20x Necron Warrior (Gauss Flayer): 20x Gauss Flayer

Necron Warriors [12 PL, 234pts] . 18x Necron Warrior (Gauss Reaper): 18x Gauss Reaper

+ Elites +

Lychguard [14 PL, 280pts]: 10x Lychguard
. Hyperphase Sword and Dispersion Shield

+ Fast Attack +

Canoptek Wraiths [10 PL, 210pts] . 6x Canoptek Wraith (Claws): 6x Vicious Claws

+ Heavy Support +

Lokhust Heavy Destroyers [12 PL, 180pts] . 3x Lokhust Heavy Destroyer (Gauss Destructor): 3x Gauss Destructor

++ Supreme Command Detachment +3CP (Necrons) [23 PL, 450pts, 6CP] ++

+ Configuration +

Detachment Command Cost [3CP]

Dynasty Choice: Dynasty: Mephrit

+ Primarch | Daemon Primarch | Supreme Commander +

The Silent King [23 PL, 450pts, 3CP] . 2x Triarchal Menhir: 2x Annihilator Beam

++ Total: [101 PL, 12CP, 1,999pts] ++

Chaos Space Marines

Similar to Necrons, Chaos Space Marines are very nearly there at this point. They’re held back by a weak selection of datasheets, but they have some good ones too (especially Terminators and the Lord of Skulls) and the change to Death to the False Emperor to be universal has given Abaddon a spectacular shot in the arm, making him a great counter-charge and troubleshooting unit. Given he also combos very effectively with the LoS and various Forge World Dreadnoughts, or can be run alongside the Emperor’s Children in a soup list, you’ve definitely got options when building CSM, but you’re definitely still going to have your work cut out if you’re trying to outright win an event.

Sample List – Russell Tassin – Rise of the Emperor GT – 6th Place

Army List - Click to Expand

++ Battalion Detachment 0CP (Chaos – Chaos Space Marines) [95 PL, 2,000pts, 10CP] ++

+ Configuration +

Battle Size [12CP]: 3. Strike Force (101-200 Total PL / 1001-2000 Points)

Detachment Command Cost

Legion: Black Legion

+ HQ +

Abaddon the Despoiler [11 PL, 220pts, 2CP]: 6. First Among Traitors, Warlord

Chaos Lord in Terminator Armour [6 PL, 105pts]: Angelsbane, Chainfist, Combi-bolter, Mark of Slaanesh

+ Troops +

Chaos Cultists [3 PL, 50pts]: No Chaos Mark
. 9x Chaos Cultist w/ Autogun: 9x Autogun
. Cultist Champion: Shotgun

Chaos Cultists [3 PL, 50pts]: No Chaos Mark
. 9x Chaos Cultist w/ Autogun: 9x Autogun
. Cultist Champion: Autogun

Chaos Cultists [3 PL, 50pts]: No Chaos Mark
. 9x Chaos Cultist w/ autopistol and brutal assault weapon: 9x Autopistol, 9x Brutal assault weapon
. Cultist Champion: Brutal assault weapon and Autopistol

+ Elites +

Chaos Contemptor Dreadnought [8 PL, 215pts, -1CP]: Hellforged cyclone missile launcher, No Chaos Mark, 2x Twin lascannon

Chaos Contemptor Dreadnought [8 PL, 200pts, -1CP]: Graviton blaster, Hellforged cyclone missile launcher, Hellforged Dreadnought chainfist, No Chaos Mark, Twin lascannon

Chaos Leviathan Dreadnought [13 PL, 235pts, -1CP]: Grav-flux bombard, 3x Hellforged hunter-killer missile, Leviathan siege drill and meltagun, No Chaos Mark
. Two heavy flamers

Decimator [9 PL, 180pts]: No Chaos Mark, 2x Soulburner petard

+ Fast Attack +

Warp Talons [5 PL, 115pts]: No Chaos Mark, Warp Talon Champion
. 4x Warp Talon: 4x Lightning Claw (Pair)

+ Heavy Support +

Obliterators [15 PL, 315pts]: Mark of Slaanesh
. 3x Obliterator: 3x Crushing fists, 3x Fleshmetal guns

++ Total: [95 PL, 10CP, 2,000pts] ++

Ultramarines

Ultramarines are in a slightly weird spot where on power level alone they’re plausibly Tier 3, but almost no one is playing them, so it’s pretty hard to tell. Similar to Iron Hands, you can get pretty much all the early shooting support you need from Stratagems and the Superdoctrine (plus the Seal of Oath), allowing you to build a melee-focused successor to cover that part of the game, and the result tends to be reasonably effective. That’s especially true because you can use Rapid Redeployment with Invictor Warsuits to adapt to the first turn, letting you go hyper aggressive when the situation calls for it and sometimes bowling opponents out of the game. That’s a reasonable unique draw, but it doesn’t super work into Talos, and beyond that you’re several layers deep into there being all-rounder Marine options that are just better, hence why hardly anyone is taking them out.

Sample List – Samuel Marshall – 2nd Place Adelaide GT

Army List - Click to Expand

++ Battalion Detachment 0CP (Imperium – Adeptus Astartes – Ultramarines) [101 PL, 8CP, 2,000pts] ++

+ Configuration +

**Chapter Selector**: Custom Chapter, Master Artisans, Ultramarines Successor, Whirlwind of Rage

+ HQ +

Captain with Master-crafted Heavy Bolt Rifle [6 PL, -1CP, 105pts]: Adept of the Codex, Rites of War, Stratagem: Exemplar of the Chapter, Warlord

Primaris Techmarine [5 PL, -1CP, 100pts]: Chapter Command: Master of the Forge, Seal of Oath, Storm of Fire, Stratagem: Hero of the Chapter

+ Troops +

Assault Intercessor Squad [5 PL, 95pts] . 4x Assault Intercessor: 4x Astartes Chainsword, 4x Frag & Krak grenades, 4x Heavy Bolt Pistol
. Assault Intercessor Sgt: Astartes Chainsword, Heavy Bolt Pistol

Intercessor Squad [5 PL, 100pts]: Auto Bolt Rifle
. 4x Intercessor: 4x Bolt pistol, 4x Frag & Krak grenades
. Intercessor Sergeant: Astartes Chainsword

+ Elites +

Invictor Tactical Warsuit [8 PL, 160pts]: Twin ironhail autocannon

Redemptor Dreadnought [9 PL, 180pts]: 2x Fragstorm Grenade Launchers, Macro Plasma Incinerator, Onslaught Gatling Cannon

Relic Contemptor Dreadnought [8 PL, -1CP, 175pts]: Cyclone missile launcher, 2x Twin volkite culverin

+ Fast Attack +

Suppressor Squad [5 PL, 100pts] . 2x Suppressor: 2x Accelerator autocannon, 2x Bolt pistol, 2x Frag & Krak grenades
. Suppressor Sergeant

+ Heavy Support +

Eliminator Squad [5 PL, 75pts]: Bolt sniper rifle
. Eliminator Sergeant: Instigator Bolt Carbine
. 2x Eliminators: 2x Bolt pistol, 2x Camo cloak, 2x Frag & Krak grenades

++ Total: [101 PL, 8CP, 2,000pts] ++

Raven Guard

Doing nasty tricks with Master of Ambush is cool, but Mandrakes being a staple in Drukhari lists makes it far less effective than it used to be. Swift and Deadly is also a very powerful Warlord trait, letting Raven Guard get some White Scars action going and helping out VanVets, and their superdoctrine can even be pretty decent if you run into Grey Knights. This army isn’t unsalvageable, but another one where you’re tanking your chances of a win compared to other chapters just by showing up with them.

Sample List – Robin Leane – Courage and Honour – 8th Place

Army List - Click to Expand

++ Battalion Detachment 0CP (Imperium – Adeptus Astartes – Raven Guard) [97 PL, 10CP, 2,000pts] ++

+ Configuration [12CP] +

**Chapter Selector**: Born Heroes , Custom Chapter, Raven Guard Successor, Whirlwind of Rage

+ Stratagems [-1CP] +

Strategem: Relics of the Chapter [-1CP]: Number of Extra Relics [-1CP]

+ HQ [10 PL, 185pts] +

Captain [5 PL, 90pts]: Astartes Chainsword, Bolt pistol, Combi-melta [5pts], Frag & Krak grenades, Teeth of Terra

Primaris Librarian [5 PL, 95pts]: 1) Umbral Form, 4) Shadowstep, Bolt pistol, Force sword, Frag & Krak grenades

+ Troops [16 PL, 315pts] +

Assault Intercessor Squad [5 PL, 95pts]
. 4x Assault Intercessor [76pts]: 4x Astartes Chainsword, 4x Frag & Krak grenades, 4x Heavy Bolt Pistol
. Assault Intercessor Sgt [19pts]: Astartes Chainsword, Frag & Krak grenades, Heavy Bolt Pistol

Infiltrator Squad [6 PL, 120pts]
. 4x Infiltrator [96pts]: 4x Bolt pistol, 4x Frag & Krak grenades, 4x Marksman bolt carbine
. Infiltrator Sergeant [24pts]: Bolt pistol, Frag & Krak grenades, Marksman bolt carbine

Intercessor Squad [5 PL, 100pts]: Auto Bolt Rifle
. 4x Intercessor [80pts]: 4x Bolt pistol, 4x Frag & Krak grenades
. Intercessor Sergeant [20pts]: Astartes Chainsword, Bolt pistol, Frag & Krak grenades

+ Elites [42 PL, -1CP, 870pts] +

Bladeguard Veteran Squad [5 PL, 105pts]
. 2x Bladeguard Veteran [70pts]: 2x Frag & Krak grenades, 2x Heavy Bolt Pistol, 2x Master-crafted power sword, 2x Storm Shield
. Bladeguard Veteran Sergeant [35pts]: Frag & Krak grenades, Heavy Bolt Pistol, Master-crafted power sword, Storm Shield

Judiciar [5 PL, -1CP, 85pts]: Absolver Bolt pistol, Executioner Relic Blade, Frag & Krak grenades, Master of Ambush, Stratagem: Master of the Trifold Path [-1CP], Swift and Deadly, The Vox Espiritum, Warlord

Terminator Assault Squad [18 PL, 380pts]
. Assault Terminator Sergeant [43pts]
. . Thunder Hammer & Storm Shield [10pts]: Storm shield, Thunder hammer [10pts]
. 4x Assault Terminator w/THSS [172pts]: 4x Storm shield, 4x Thunder hammer [40pts]
. 5x Assault Terminator w/x2LC [165pts]: 5x Lightning Claw (Pair)

Vanguard Veteran Squad [14 PL, 300pts]: Jump Pack [2 PL, 30pts]
. Vanguard Veteran [27pts]: Frag & Krak grenades, Lightning Claw [3pts], Storm shield [5pts]
. Vanguard Veteran [27pts]: Frag & Krak grenades, Lightning Claw [3pts], Storm shield [5pts]
. Vanguard Veteran [27pts]: Frag & Krak grenades, Lightning Claw [3pts], Storm shield [5pts]
. Vanguard Veteran [27pts]: Frag & Krak grenades, Lightning Claw [3pts], Storm shield [5pts]
. Vanguard Veteran [27pts]: Frag & Krak grenades, Lightning Claw [3pts], Storm shield [5pts]
. Vanguard Veteran [27pts]: Frag & Krak grenades, Lightning Claw [3pts], Storm shield [5pts]
. Vanguard Veteran [27pts]: Frag & Krak grenades, Lightning Claw [3pts], Storm shield [5pts]
. Vanguard Veteran [27pts]: Frag & Krak grenades, Lightning Claw [3pts], Storm shield [5pts]
. Vanguard Veteran [27pts]: Frag & Krak grenades, Lightning Claw [3pts], Storm shield [5pts]
. Vanguard Veteran Sergeant [27pts]: Frag & Krak grenades, Lightning Claw [3pts], Storm shield [5pts]

+ Heavy Support [29 PL, 630pts] +

Eradicator Squad [14 PL, 310pts]: Heavy melta rifle [20pts]
. 3x Eradicator [135pts]: 3x Bolt pistol
. Eradicator Sgt [45pts]: Bolt pistol
. Eradicator with MM [55pts]: Bolt pistol, Multi-melta [10pts]
. Eradicator with MM [55pts]: Bolt pistol, Multi-melta [10pts]

Eradicator Squad [7 PL, 155pts]: Heavy melta rifle [10pts]
. Eradicator [45pts]: Bolt pistol
. Eradicator Sgt [45pts]: Bolt pistol
. Eradicator with MM [55pts]: Bolt pistol, Multi-melta [10pts]

Hellblaster Squad [8 PL, 165pts]: Assault Plasma Incinerator
. 4x Hellblaster [132pts]: 4x Bolt pistol, 4x Frag & Krak grenades
. Hellblaster Sergeant [33pts]: Bolt pistol, Frag & Krak grenades

++ Total: [97 PL, 10CP, 2,000pts] ++

Astra Militarum

Guard need a new book, because while they have some OK sources of shooting, quite a bit of it is useless into Damage Reduction, and they just don’t have the board presence to ever capitalise on it. Improving Russes to a 2+ save helps a bit, but ironically that would have helped more against AdMech than some of the other dominant lists out there, and the most successful way to use Guard recently has been to bring in some Armiger Warglaives for mid-table presence. If you’re insisting on pure, your choices are generally either to bring the Lambdan Lions Scion Regiment, whose Refractor Field-buffed Tauroxes can be pretty crunchy, or to try for Bullgryn. Mostly though, go with soup.

Sample List – Matthew Riley – Merry Slaaneshmas – 15th Place

Army List - Click to Expand

++ Patrol Detachment -2CP (Imperium – Astra Militarum) [31 PL, 9CP, 573pts] ++

+ Configuration +

Gametype: Matched

Regimental Doctrine: Regiment: Vostroyan

+ Stratagems +

Tank Ace [-1CP]

+ HQ +

Tank Commander [12 PL, 203pts]: Heavy Bolter, Hunter-Killer Missile, Storm Bolter, Turret-mounted Demolisher Siege Cannon

+ Troops +

Infantry Squad [3 PL, 55pts]
. 9x Guardsman: 9x Lasgun
. Sergeant: Chainsword, Laspistol

Infantry Squad [3 PL, 65pts]
. 7x Guardsman: 7x Lasgun
. Heavy Weapon Team: Mortar
. Sergeant: Chainsword, Laspistol

+ Elites +

Command Squad [2 PL, 35pts]
. Veteran: Lasgun
. Veteran: Lasgun
. Veteran Weapon Team: Mortar

+ Heavy Support +

Manticore [8 PL, 150pts]: Full Payload, Heavy Bolter, Hunter-Killer Missile

++ Patrol Detachment 0CP (Imperium – Astra Militarum) [46 PL, 811pts] ++

+ Configuration +

Detachment Command Cost

Regimental Doctrine: Gunnery Experts, Spotter Details

+ HQ +

Tank Commander [12 PL, 203pts]: Heavy Bolter, Hunter-Killer Missile, Relic: Kurov’s Aquila, Storm Bolter, Turret-mounted Demolisher Siege Cannon, Warlord

Tank Commander [12 PL, 203pts]: Heavy Bolter, Hunter-Killer Missile, Storm Bolter, Turret-mounted Demolisher Siege Cannon

+ Troops +

Infantry Squad [3 PL, 55pts]
. 9x Guardsman: 9x Lasgun
. Sergeant: Chainsword, Laspistol

+ Heavy Support +

Manticore [8 PL, 150pts]: Full Payload, Heavy Bolter, Hunter-Killer Missile

Manticore [8 PL, 145pts]: Heavy Bolter

++ Patrol Detachment -2CP (Imperium – Astra Militarum) [37 PL, -2CP, 615pts] ++

+ Configuration +

Detachment Command Cost [-2CP]

Regimental Doctrine: 9th Iotan Gorgonnes

+ HQ +

Commissar Yarrick [6 PL, 105pts]

+ Troops +

Militarum Tempestus Scions [3 PL, 45pts]
. 4x Scion: 4x Frag & Krak grenades, 4x Hot-shot Lasgun
. Tempestor: Chainsword, Plasma pistol

+ Elites +

Bullgryns [15 PL, 280pts]
. Bullgryn: Brute Shield, Bullgryn Maul
. Bullgryn: Brute Shield, Bullgryn Maul
. Bullgryn: Bullgryn Maul, Slabshield
. Bullgryn: Bullgryn Maul, Slabshield
. Bullgryn: Bullgryn Maul, Slabshield
. Bullgryn: Bullgryn Maul, Slabshield
. Bullgryn: Bullgryn Maul, Slabshield
. Bullgryn Bone ‘ead: Brute Shield, Bullgryn Maul

Bullgryns [10 PL, 140pts]
. Bullgryn: Bullgryn Maul, Slabshield
. Bullgryn: Bullgryn Maul, Slabshield
. Bullgryn: Bullgryn Maul, Slabshield
. Bullgryn Bone ‘ead: Brute Shield, Bullgryn Maul

++ Total: [114 PL, 7CP, 1,999pts] ++

Craftworlds

Were it not for the heroic efforts of Brad Chester we’d probably have left Craftworlds in the Trash, but we guess they can come out to the bottom of Tier 4. Craftworlds do have some good units – Dark Reapers, Night Spinners, Shining Spears and a few utility pieces like Warp Spiders – but they don’t have the tools to assemble an efficient army that can reliably compete with the rest of what’s out there. Like Guard, the main gap is that they don’t have anything that provides durability at a good price point to contest the Primary with, alongside plenty of units priced for a world that doesn’t exist any more. The extremely potent Expert Crafters plus Masterful Shots/Ancient Relics custom traits go a little way towards keeping the army operational, but if you want to win with Craftworld units on the table, your best bet is to use them to back up Harlequins.

Sample List – Brad Chester – Sunken City GT – 6th Place

Army List - Click to Expand

++ Spearhead Detachment -3CP (Aeldari – Craftworlds) [80 PL, -3CP, 1,401pts] ++

+ Configuration +

Craftworld Attribute
. *Custom Craftworld*: Expert Crafters, Masterful Shots

Detachment Command Cost [-3CP]

+ HQ +

Autarch Skyrunner [6 PL, 110pts]: 4: Fate’s Messenger, Laser Lance, Warlord
. The Phoenix Gem

Warlock Skyrunner [4 PL, 65pts]: 0. Smite, 4. Protect/Jinx, Shuriken Pistol, Witchblade

+ Elites +

Fire Dragons [6 PL, 100pts]
. 4x Fire Dragon: 4x Fusion Gun, 4x Melta Bombs
. Fire Dragon Exarch: Fusion Gun
. . Exarch Power: Crack Shot

+ Fast Attack +

Shining Spears [10 PL, 180pts]
. 4x Shining Spear: 4x Laser Lance, 4x Twin Shuriken Catapult
. Shining Spear Exarch: Star Lance
. . Exarch Power: Skilled Rider

Swooping Hawks [4 PL, 80pts]
. 4x Swooping Hawk: 4x Lasblaster
. Swooping Hawk Exarch: Lasblaster
. . Exarch Power: Herald of Victory

+ Heavy Support +

Dark Reapers [9 PL, 138pts]
. 3x Dark Reaper: 3x Reaper Launcher
. Dark Reaper Exarch: Tempest Launcher
. . Exarch Power: Rapid Shot

Night Spinner [8 PL, 135pts]: Twin Shuriken Catapult

War Walkers [8 PL, 160pts]
. War Walker: Bright Lance, Bright Lance
. War Walker: Bright Lance, Bright Lance

++ Patrol Detachment -2CP (Aeldari – Craftworlds) [28 PL, 10CP, 595pts] ++

+ Configuration +

Battle Size [12CP]: 3. Strike Force (101-200 Total PL / 1001-2000 Points)

Craftworld Attribute: Ulthwe: Foresight of the Damned

Detachment Command Cost [-2CP]

+ HQ +

Eldrad Ulthran [8 PL, 155pts]: 0. Smite, 2. Doom, 3. Fortune, 4. Executioner

Warlock Skyrunner [4 PL, 65pts]: 0. Smite, 5. Quicken/Restrain, Shuriken Pistol, Witchblade

+ Troops +

Dire Avengers [2 PL, 55pts]
. 4x Dire Avenger: 4x Avenger Shuriken Catapult, 4x Plasma Grenades
. Dire Avenger Exarch: Avenger Shuriken Catapult
. . Exarch Power: Battle Fortune

+ Elites +

Striking Scorpions [3 PL, 70pts]
. 4x Striking Scorpion: 4x Plasma Grenades, 4x Scorpion Chainsword, 4x Shuriken Pistol
. Striking Scorpion Exarch: Biting Blade, Shuriken Pistol
. . Exarch Power: Sustained Attack

+ Fast Attack +

Warp Spiders [4 PL, 90pts]
. 4x Warp Spider: 4x Death Spinner
. Warp Spider Exarch: Death Spinner
. . Exarch Power: Web of Deceit

++ Total: [108 PL, 7CP, 1,996pts] ++

Trash

Tau

Tau’s long nightmare is nearly over (and if that railgun preview is anything to go by, everyone else’s might be about to begin). If you want to play Tau in the meantime, run Farsight Enclaves – it’s the only build that gives you even close to the aggression you need to inject into the faction to have a chance at pulling off an upset event in in 9th Edition. Builds like the one below can do some real damage, and can steal some wins simply from people underestimating them at this point, but are also incredibly vulnerable to just getting shut out when things go wrong.

Sample List – Kyle Grundy – UKTC Leicester GT – 17th Place

Army List - Click to Expand

++ Battalion Detachment 0CP (T’au Empire) [102 PL, 9CP, 1,998pts] ++

+ Configuration +

Sept Choice: Farsight Enclaves

+ Stratagems +

Emergency Dispensation (1 Relic) [-1CP]

Veteran Cadre (4+ models) [-2CP]

+ HQ +

Commander Farsight [7 PL, 130pts]

Commander in XV86 Coldstar Battlesuit [9 PL, 180pts]: 2. Through Unity, Devastation, Advanced targeting system, 3x Missile pod, Warlord
. MV7 Marker Drone

+ Troops +

Breacher Team [3 PL, 65pts]: MV36 Guardian Drone
. Fire Warrior Shas’ui: Pulse blaster
. 4x Fire Warrior w/ Pulse Pistol: 4x Photon grenades, 4x Pulse blaster, 4x Pulse pistol
. MV1 Gun Drone

Breacher Team [2 PL, 45pts]
. Fire Warrior Shas’ui: Pulse blaster
. 4x Fire Warrior w/ Pulse Pistol: 4x Photon grenades, 4x Pulse blaster, 4x Pulse pistol

+ Elites +

XV104 Riptide Battlesuit [15 PL, 304pts]: 2x Fusion blaster, Amplified ion accelerator, Drone controller, Ion accelerator, Velocity tracker

XV25 Stealth Battlesuits [6 PL, 88pts]
. MV7 Marker Drone
. Stealth Shas’ui w/ Burst Cannon
. Stealth Shas’ui w/ Burst Cannon
. Stealth Shas’vre: Burst cannon

XV8 Crisis Bodyguards [28 PL, 608pts]: Reactive countermeasures, Veteran Cadre
. Crisis Bodyguard: Advanced targeting system, 2x Missile pod, XV8-02 Crisis Iridium battlesuit
. Crisis Bodyguard: Advanced targeting system, 2x Missile pod, XV8-02 Crisis Iridium battlesuit
. Crisis Bodyguard: Advanced targeting system, Airbursting fragmentation projector, Shield generator, XV8-02 Crisis Iridium battlesuit
. Crisis Bodyguard: Advanced targeting system, 2x Missile pod
. Crisis Bodyguard: Advanced targeting system, 2x Missile pod
. Crisis Bodyguard: Advanced targeting system, 2x Missile pod
. Crisis Bodyguard: Advanced targeting system, 2x Missile pod
. Crisis Bodyguard: Advanced targeting system, 2x Missile pod
. Crisis Bodyguard: Advanced targeting system, 2x Missile pod
. MV7 Marker Drone

+ Fast Attack +

Pathfinder Team [5 PL, 80pts]: MV33 Grav-inhibitor Drone
. MB3 Recon Drone
. 4x Pathfinder: 4x Markerlight, 4x Photon grenades, 4x Pulse carbine
. Pathfinder Shas’ui

+ Flyer +

DX-6 Remora Stealth Drones [3 PL, 60pts]: DX-6 Remora Stealth Drone

+ Dedicated Transport +

TY7 Devilfish [5 PL, 90pts]
. 2x MV1 Gun Drone

++ Total: [102 PL, 9CP, 1,998pts] ++

Genestealer Cults

See above re: the nightmare almost being over. The way Genestealer Cults played in 8th just doesn’t translate to 9th Edition at all, and the best they can do at the moment is to skew towards a mechanised list like the one below and hope for the best – at least most opponents will have forgotten the nonsense tricks by now.

Sample List – Danny Porter – Polhammer 40K – 9th Place

Army List - Click to Expand

== Battalion Detachment == ( Seasoned Enforcers, Workers Arisen ) [ -3CP ]

– 1CP – The Cult’s Psyche

HQ1: Jackal Alphus = (4PL, 75pts)
HQ2: Magus = (4PL, 85pts) – Might From Beyond, Mass Hypnosis

TR1: Neophyte Hybrids = (5PL, 80pts) 1x Leader, 7x Neophytes, 2x Neophytes /w Mining Laser
TR2: Neophyte Hybrids = (5PL, 80pts) 1x Leader, 7x Neophytes, 2x Neophytes /w Mining Laser
TR3: Neophyte Hybrids = (5PL, 80pts) 1x Leader, 7x Neophytes, 2x Neophytes /w Mining Laser
TR4: Neophyte Hybrids = (5PL, 80pts) 1x Leader, 7x Neophytes, 2x Neophytes /w Mining Laser
TR5: Neophyte Hybrids = (5PL, 80pts) 1x Leader, 7x Neophytes, 2x Neophytes /w Mining Laser

EL1: Kelermorph = (4PL, 80pts) – Opressor’s Bane, 2x Liberator Autostub

TS1: Goliath Truck (4PL, 75pts) – Twin Autocannon, Heavy Stubber
TS2: Goliath Truck (4PL, 75pts) – Twin Autocannon, Heavy Stubber
TS3: Goliath Truck (4PL, 75pts) – Twin Autocannon, Heavy Stubber
TS4: Goliath Truck (4PL, 75pts) – Twin Autocannon, Heavy Stubber

== Patrol Detachment == ( Pauper’s Princes ) [ 0CP ]

HQ1: Patriarch = (7PL, 150pts) – Warlord; Born Survivor, Last Grasp, Might from Beyond, The crouchling

TR1: Acolyte Hybrids = (6PL, 150pts) – 1x Leader, 5x Acolytes, 4x Acolytes /w Rock Cutter, 10x Hand Flamers
TR2: Acolyte Hybrids = (6PL, 150pts) – 1x Leader, 5x Acolytes, 4x Acolytes /w Rock Cutter, 10x Hand Flamers
TR3: Acolyte Hybrids = (6PL, 120pts) – 1x Leader, 5x Acolytes, 4x Acolytes /w Rock Cutter

EL1: Hybrid Metamorph = (3PL, 110pts) – 1x Leader, 9x Hybrids, 10x Metamorph whip, 10x Rending Claw

== Patrol Detachment == ( Seasoned Enforcers, Workers Arisen ) [ -2CP ]

HQ1: Jackal Alphus = (4PL, 75pts)

TR1: Acolyte Hybrids = (3PL, 40pts) – 1x Leader, 4x Acolytes
TR2: Acolyte Hybrids = (3PL, 40pts) – 1x Leader, 4x Acolytes

Imperial Fists

The Imperial Fists book in 8th did one thing far too well, which was oppress Vehicles out of the metgame, but it’s extremely shallow in every other regard, and got the anti-tank power ripped out of it by consecutive changes to Doctrines. Now it just doesn’t do anything – it gets one turn of its Superdoctrine, during which it often won’t be able to target much (because the general lethality of 9th has made heavier tables the order of the day), none of its tricks work against Talos, and everything in the book that isn’t for killing vehicles is a worse version of something other Chapters get. On a strictly technical level they might be better than GSC or Tau, but we genuinely think you have a better chance of succeeding with one of those simply via the surprise factor – Imperial Fists provide a deeply inferior version of armies that players will be prepared for, and at the close of 2021 I am comfortable saying that them winning a major would be more surprising than any other faction doing so.

Sample List – Charles Eliatamby – LCGT Supermajor – 81st Place

Army List - Click to Expand

++ Battalion Detachment 0CP (Imperium – Adeptus Astartes – Imperial Fists) [100 PL, 6CP, 2,000pts] ++

+ Configuration +

**Chapter Selector**: Imperial Fists

Battle Size [12CP]: 3. Strike Force (101-200 Total PL / 1001-2000 Points)

Detachment Command Cost

+ Stratagems +

Relics of the Chapter [-1CP]: Number of Extra Relics

+ HQ +

Primaris Captain [5 PL, -1CP, 90pts]: Hand of Dorn, Storm of Fire, Stratagem: Sentinel of Terra, The Vox Espiritum, Warlord
. Master-crafted auto bolt rifle

Primaris Techmarine [4 PL, -1CP, 80pts]: Rites of War, Stratagem: Hero of the Chapter, The Eye of Hypnoth

+ Troops +

Infiltrator Squad [6 PL, 120pts]
. 4x Infiltrator: 4x Bolt pistol, 4x Frag & Krak grenades, 4x Marksman bolt carbine
. Infiltrator Sergeant

Intercessor Squad [5 PL, 100pts]: Auto Bolt Rifle
. 4x Intercessor: 4x Bolt pistol, 4x Frag & Krak grenades
. Intercessor Sergeant

+ Elites +

Redemptor Dreadnought [9 PL, 185pts]: 2x Storm Bolters, Icarus Rocket Pod, Macro Plasma Incinerator, Onslaught Gatling Cannon

Relic Contemptor Dreadnought [8 PL, -1CP, 175pts]: Cyclone missile launcher, 2x Twin volkite culverin

Relic Terminator Squad [18 PL, 340pts]
. Relic Terminator: Combi-bolter, Lightning Claw
. Relic Terminator: Combi-bolter, Lightning Claw
. Relic Terminator: Combi-bolter, Lightning Claw
. Relic Terminator: Combi-bolter, Lightning Claw
. Relic Terminator: Combi-bolter, Lightning Claw
. Relic Terminator: Combi-bolter, Lightning Claw
. Relic Terminator: Combi-bolter, Lightning Claw
. Relic Terminator: Combi-bolter, Lightning Claw
. Relic Terminator: Combi-bolter, Lightning Claw
. Relic Terminator Sergeant: Combi-bolter, Lightning Claw

+ Fast Attack +

Suppressor Squad [5 PL, 100pts]
. 2x Suppressor: 2x Accelerator autocannon, 2x Bolt pistol, 2x Frag & Krak grenades
. Suppressor Sergeant

+ Heavy Support +

Eliminator Squad [5 PL, 75pts]: Bolt sniper rifle
. Eliminator Sergeant: Instigator Bolt Carbine
. 2x Eliminators: 2x Bolt pistol, 2x Camo cloak, 2x Frag & Krak grenades

++ Total: [100 PL, 6CP, 2,000pts] ++

Wrap Up

That’s it – a whole new year beckons, filled with new Codexes, new seasons and plenty more Warhammer 40,000. Will Drukhari take down LVO to put a cap on their 2021 season, or will a challenger emerge to cast them down? Will new books finally rescue Genestealers and Tau from the dumpster? 2022 is going to be an exciting time – so a happy new year to all our readers, and make sure to check back in to Goonhammer every week for all the latest competitive updates. Comments and suggestions to contact@goonhammer.com.

The 2021 Warhammer 40k End of Year Tier List

What Has Changed Since the Last Tier List?

How the Tier List Works

How Factions are Rated

The Tiers

S-Tier – Dominant Faction(s)

Tier 1 – Premium Factions

Tier 2 – Contenders

Tier 3 – Capable Factions

Tier 4 – Hard Mode Zone

Trash Tier

The EOY 2021 Tier List

Key

Rankings

Implications

The Good

The Bad

Faction Breakdown

S-Tier

Drukhari

Sample List (Covens) – Richard Siegler – 1st Place US Open Austin

Sample List (Goodstuff) – Boris Michev – 2nd Place UKTC Leicester Supermajor

Tier 1

Iron Hands

Sample List – Innes Wilson -1st Place Clash of Alba Winter Assault

Orks

Sample List (Goffs) – Mark Perry – 2nd Place New Orleans Open

Sample List (Freebooterz) – Brian Seipp – 1st Place LCGT Supermajor

Tyranids/Hive Mind

Sample List – John Lennon – 1st Place New Orleans Open

Black Templars

Sample List – Matt Root – 1st Place Renegade Open

Grey Knights

Sample List – Adam Lane – 2nd Place Da Winter Waaagh 2

Tier 2

Dark Angels

Sample List – Maxine Blythin – 4th Place FactoruM November GT

Space Wolves

Sample List – Mathieu Boutin-Bastien – 1st Place MTL 40K

Sample List (Melee Successors) – Logan Antonation – 1st Place Return to IWTS

Adepta Sororitas

Sample List – John Lennon – 2nd Place Orlando Open August 2021

Deathwatch

Sample List (Shooty) – Alex Harrison – 2nd Place London GT Super Major September 2021

Sample List (Kill Team Strike Force) – Michael Costello – 14th Place LCGT Supermajor

Thousand Sons

Sample List – Mike Porter – 3rd Place UKTC Coventry Major

Aeldari Soup

Sample List – Mike Porter – 1st Place Goonhammer Open UK

Adeptus Custodes

Sample List – Alun Perkins – 1st Place London Open August 2021

Adeptus Mechanicus

Sample List – Jakub Falkowski – 2nd Place Polhammer 40K

Tier 3

Imperial Knights

Sample List – Brian Jones – 9th Place GW US Open Austin

Chaos Knights

Sample List – Adam Baker – 6th Place Lightly Salted Holiday GT

Sample List (War Dog Spam) – Dawid Szmyt – 9th Place LCGT Supermajor

Chaos Soup

Sample List – Luke Greco – 5th Place NSW 40K Masters

Harlequins

Sample List – Matthew Ehlinger – 4th Place Western Wisconsin Wargaming Weekend

Death Guard

Sample List – Allan Davidson – 12th Place Clash of Alba Winter Assault

Sample List (Terminus Est) – David Horn – 3rd Place LGT 2021

White Scars

Sample List – Patrick McAneeny – 2nd Place Tables & Towers Flames of Autumn GT

Blood Angels

Sample List – Jack Harpster – 4th Place Crucible 9 GT

Daemons

Sample List – Scott LaFountain – 8th Place SoCal Open

Salamanders

Sample List – Tim Doran – 4th Place Renegade Open

Tier 4

Necrons

Sample List – Seth Piper – 1st Place Dicehead Holiday Event

Chaos Space Marines

Sample List – Russell Tassin – Rise of the Emperor GT – 6th Place

Ultramarines