40K META ANALYSIS: Black Templars & Custodes Getting To The TOP Tables! -

Continuing on from yesterday’s article (you can check it out here) we’re diving into more tournaments and seeing what’s going on during these events.

So for today’s article we’re looking at the following GT’s:

Tables and Towers
New Years Knockout
Game Grid Hosts the Warhound
Exterminatus IV: Wagga Wagga
Da Bolton Waaagh

Guest Article Writer: Nathan

Tables and Towers January GT

	Player	Faction
1	Mark Hertel	Admech
2	Troy Strootman	Drukhari
3	Ken Knox	Iron Hands
4	Christopher Gosselin	Tyranids
5	Edward Appel	Necrons
6	TJ Lanigan	Thousand Sons
7	Joe Marion	Tyranids
8	Michael Aigner	Grey Knights
9	Josh Putz	Dark Angels
10	Ole Hass	Dark Angels

Lists

First Place – Mark Hertel (Admech)

Expand for Army List

++ Spearhead Detachment -3CP (Imperium – Adeptus Mechanicus) [56 PL, 1,075pts, -3CP] ++

+ Configuration +

Detachment Command Cost [-3CP]

Forge World Choice: Forge World: Mars

+ HQ +

Tech-Priest Enginseer [3 PL, 55pts]

+ Fast Attack +

Ironstrider Ballistarii [4 PL, 85pts] . Ironstrider Ballistarius: Twin Cognis Lascannon

+ Heavy Support +

Onager Dunecrawler [6 PL, 120pts]: Smoke Launchers . Neutron Laser and Cognis Heavy Stubber: Cognis Heavy Stubber

Skorpius Disintegrator [8 PL, 145pts]: Belleros Energy Cannon

++ Patrol Detachment 0CP (Imperium – Adeptus Mechanicus) [51 PL, 925pts, 11CP] ++

+ Configuration +

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

Detachment Command Cost

Forge World Choice: Forge World: Lucius

+ Stratagems +

Stratagem: Archeotech Specialist [-1CP]: Archeotech Specialist

+ No Force Org Slot +

Cybernetica Datasmith [4 PL, 80pts]: Logi, Relic (Lucius): The Solar Flare, Warlord, Warlord Trait (Lucius): Luminescent Blessings

+ HQ +

Tech-Priest Manipulus [5 PL, 115pts]: Artisans, Magnarail lance, Relic: Raiment of the Technomartyr

+ Troops +

Skitarii Rangers [2 PL, 45pts] . Ranger Alpha: Galvanic Rifle . 4x Skitarii Ranger: 4x Galvanic Rifle

Skitarii Vanguards [8 PL, 190pts]: Omnispex . 19x Skitarii Vanguard: 19x Radium Carbine . Vanguard Alpha: Radium Carbine

+ Heavy Support +

Kastelan Robots [30 PL, 450pts] . Kastelan Robot: Incendine Combustor, Kastelan Fist, Kastelan Fist . Kastelan Robot: Incendine Combustor, Kastelan Fist, Kastelan Fist . Kastelan Robot: Incendine Combustor, Kastelan Fist, Kastelan Fist . Kastelan Robot: Incendine Combustor, Kastelan Fist, Kastelan Fist . Kastelan Robot: Incendine Combustor, Kastelan Fist, Kastelan Fist

++ Total: [107 PL, 2,000pts, 8CP] ++

Key Features

Admech proving that they are very much not dead leveraging Mars to provide consistency to low volume, high damage artillery (onagers, disintegrators, and ironstriders) and Lucius providing improved durability to rangers, vanguard, and kastelans to allow you to spread around the board
Enginseers keep your artillery running and more efficient while your Lucius grinds people into the ground
Two possible avenues for solar flare including both the Kastelans and 20-man vanguard bricks, both of which can bring the pain when they drop in 9” away from your opponent
Datasmith can also provide transhuman to nearby Core units improving the durability of your teleporting threat dramatically
The mass of D3+3 damage fire means that into prime match-ups like Thiccc city you can pick up pain engines much more reliably

TLDR

Mars brings the firepower; Lucius brings the durability and… teleportation? Rocks are fired at close to the speed of light, everyone dies.

Second Place – Troy Strootman (Drukhari)

Expand for Army List

+++ Pain engines? (Warhammer 40,000 9th Edition) [106 PL, 9CP, 2,000pts] +++

++ Patrol Detachment 0CP (Aeldari – Drukhari) [39 PL, 735pts] ++

+ Configuration +

Detachment Command Cost

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

+ HQ +

Drazhar [8 PL, 145pts]: Hatred Eternal, Warlord

+ Troops +

Kabalite Warriors [3 PL, 40pts]: As Detachment (Kabal) . 4x Kabalite Warrior: 4x Splinter Rifle . Sybarite: Splinter Rifle

+ Elites +

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

+ Heavy Support +

Cronos [12 PL, 230pts]: As Detachment (Coven) . Cronos . Cronos: Spirit Probe . Cronos

Cronos [12 PL, 230pts]: As Detachment (Coven) . Cronos: Spirit Probe . Cronos . Cronos

++ Patrol Detachment 0CP (Aeldari – Drukhari) [48 PL, 845pts, 10CP] ++

+ Configuration +

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

Detachment Command Cost

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

Raiding Forces – CP Refund

+ Stratagems +

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

+ HQ +

Haemonculus [5 PL, 90pts, -1CP]: As Detachment (Coven), Master Regenerist, Poisoner’s Ampule, Stratagem: Tolerated Ambition . Alchemical Maestro (Custom): Alchemical Maestro

+ Troops +

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

+ Heavy Support +

Talos [18 PL, 315pts]: As Detachment (Coven) . Talos: Talos Gauntlet, Talos ichor injector . . Two heat lances . Talos: Talos Gauntlet, Talos ichor injector . . Two heat lances . Talos: Talos Gauntlet, Talos ichor injector . . Two heat lances

+ Dedicated Transport +

Venom [4 PL, 85pts]: As Detachment, Chain-snares, Grisly Trophies, Splinter Cannon, Twin splinter rifle

++ Patrol Detachment 0CP (Aeldari – Drukhari) [19 PL, 420pts, -1CP] ++

+ Configuration +

Detachment Command Cost

Obsession: Cult of Strife: The Spectacle of Murder

Raiding Forces – CP Refund

+ HQ +

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

+ Troops +

Wyches [3 PL, 60pts]: 2 – Grave Lotus (Combat Drug), As Detachment (Wych Cult) . Hekatrix: Hekatarii Blade, Splinter Pistol . 4x Wych: 4x Hekatarii Blade, 4x Plasma Grenades, 4x Splinter Pistol

+ Fast Attack +

Hellions [4 PL, 85pts]: *Random x 2* (Combat Drug), As Detachment (Wych Cult) . Helliarch: Hellglaive . 4x Hellion: 4x Hellglaive, 4x Splinter Pods

+ Dedicated Transport +

Venom [4 PL, 95pts]: As Detachment, Chain-snares, Grisly Trophies, Splinter Cannon, Splinter Cannon

Created with BattleScribe (https://battlescribe.net)

Third Place – Ken Knox (Iron hands)

Expand for Army List

Battalion Detachment 0CP (Imperium – Adeptus Astartes – Iron Hands) [100 PL, 7CP, 2,000pts] ++

+ Configuration +

**Chapter Selector**: Iron Hands

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 +

Lieutenants [5 PL, 90pts] . Primaris Lieutenant: Rites of War, The Tempered Helm, Warlord . . Neo-volkite pistol, Master-crafted power sword and Storm Shield: Neo-volkite pistol

Primaris Techmarine [5 PL, 100pts]: Chapter Command: Master of the Forge, The Ironstone

+ Troops +

Infiltrator Squad [6 PL, 130pts]: Helix gauntlet . 4x Infiltrator: 4x Bolt pistol, 4x Frag & Krak grenades, 4x Marksman bolt carbine . Infiltrator Sergeant

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: Astartes Chainsword

+ Elites +

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

Relic Contemptor Dreadnought [8 PL, -3CP, 175pts]: Cyclone missile launcher, Merciless Logic, Stratagem: Hero of the Chapter, Stratagem: March of the Ancients, 2x Twin volkite culverin

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

+ Flyer +

Fire Raptor Gunship [22 PL, -1CP, 400pts] . Two quad heavy bolters: 2x Quad heavy bolter . Two twin hellstrike launchers

++ Total: [100 PL, 7CP, 2,000pts] ++

New Years Knockout GT 2022

	Player	Faction
1	Tim Royers	Black Templars
2	John Indellicate	Tyranids
3	Mark Cimmerian	Drukhari
4	Geoffrey Husser	Deathwatch
5	Robert Bishop	Sisters of Battle
6	Aaron Hermstedt	Death Guard
7	Broc Bowman	Tyranids
8	Connor MacCormick	Drukhari
9	Sam Bennett	Orks
10	Jason Merten	Sisters of Battle

Lists

First Place – Tim Royers (Black Templars)

Expand for Army List

++ Battalion Detachment 0CP (Imperium – Adeptus Astartes – Black Templars) [108 PL, 8CP, 2,000pts] ++
+ Configuration +

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

Chapter Selection: Black Templars

Detachment Command Cost

+ Stratagems +

Stratagem: Revered Repositories [-1CP]

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

+ HQ +

High Marshal Helbrecht [8 PL, 160pts]

Primaris Chaplain on Bike [7 PL, 140pts]: 1. Litany of Divine Protection, 4. Fires of Devotion, Chapter Command: Master of Sanctity, Litany of Hate, Tannhauser’s Bones, Warlord, Wise Orator

+ Troops +

Assault Intercessor Squad [11 PL, 134pts]: Fist of Balthus . 5x Assault Intercessor: 5x Astartes Chainsword, 5x Frag & Krak grenades, 5x Heavy Bolt Pistol . Assault Intercessor Sgt: Heavy Bolt Pistol, Power fist

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

+ Elites +

Bladeguard Veteran Squad [11 PL, 230pts]: 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: Neo-volkite pistol, Sword of Judgement

Primaris Apothecary [5 PL, -1CP, 115pts]: Chapter Command: Chief Apothecary, Selfless Healer, Stratagem: Hero of the Chapter, The Crusader’s Helm

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

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

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

Whirlwind [7 PL, 135pts]: Whirlwind vengeance launcher

++ Total: [108 PL, 8CP, 2,000pts] ++

Key Features

Helbrecht fills the roll of combat beatstick and force multiplier, the Bike Chaplain provides a mobile buff platform via litany of divine protection (5+++), fires of devotion (+1 attack), and litany of hate (re-rolls) while also being impressively durable from Tannhauser’s Bones (Reduces all damage to 1), Master Apothecary can revive models within 6” and put models into the assault doctrine
Whirlwind providing suppression fire should not be overlooked providing a source of both fight last and turning off overwatch for a very melee focused army
A multitude of solid combat options including a brick of -1 damage terminators
And some firepower from eradicators and redemptors
An eliminator squad that provides you with an impressive number of movement shenanigans

TLDR

Lots of zealous marines with their efficiency boosted to ludicrous heights by force multiplying characters that just won’t die

Second Place – John Indellicate (Tyranids)

Expand for Army List

+ Configuration +

Army of Renown – Crusher Stampede

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

Detachment Command Cost

Hive Fleet: Leviathan

Use Beta Rules

+ Stratagems +

Bounty of the Hive Fleet [-1CP]: 1 Extra Bio-artefact

Progeny of the Hive [-1CP]

+ HQ +

Hive Tyrant [11 PL, 205pts]: Monstrous Rending Claws, Power: Catalyst, Power: Psychic Scream, Prehensile Pincer Tail, Relic: Biomorphic Carapace, Two Devourers with Brainleech Worms, Wings . Adaptive Physiology: Murderous Size

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

The Swarmlord [14 PL, 240pts]: Bone Sabres, Power: Aggressive Surge, Power: Synaptic Barrier, Prehensile Pincer Tail

+ Troops +

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]: Flesh Hooks, Grasping Talons, Rending Claws

+ Heavy Support +

Barbed Hierodule [14 PL, 275pts]: 2x Bio-cannon, Hierodule Scything Talons

Scythed Hierodule [12 PL, 235pts]: Bio-acid Spray, 2x Hierodule Scything Talons

+ Flyer +

Hive Crone [8 PL, 155pts]: Drool Cannon, Scything Wings, Stinger Salvo, Tentaclids, Wicked Spur

++ Total: [108 PL, 2,000pts, 9CP] ++

Third Place – Mark Cimmerian (Drukhari)

Expand for Army List

++ Battalion Detachment 0CP (Aeldari – Drukhari) [104 PL, -3CP, 1,998pts] ++

+ Configuration +

Detachment Command Cost

Realspace Raid, Obsession: Kabal of the Black Heart: Thirst for Power, The Prophets of Flesh: Connoisseurs of Pain, *Custom Cult*: Stimulant Innovators, Test of Skill

+ Stratagems +

Stratagem: Alliance of Agony [-1 CP]

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

+ No Force Org Slot +

Court of the Archon [5 PL] As Detachment (Kabal)

Court of the Archon [5 PL, 68pts] . Sslyth . Sslyth . Ur-Ghul . Ur-Ghul

+ HQ [12 PL, -2CP, 225pts] +

Archon [4 PL, 75pts]: As Detachment (Kabal), Ancient Evil WLT, Raid Mastermind, The Animus Vitae, Venom Blade, Blast Pistol [5pts], Warlord

Haemonculus [4 PL, -1CP, 80pts]: As Detachment (Coven), Haemonculus Tools, Ichor Injector, Scissorhand, Stinger Pistol, Stratagem: Alliance of Agony WLT, Diabolical Soothsayer, Stratagem: Prizes from the Dark City Relic, The Vexator Mask

Succubus [4 PL, -1CP, 80pts]: 1 – Adrenalight (Combat Drug), As Detachment (Wych Cult), Stratagem: Alliance of Agony WLT, Precision Blows, Stratagem: Prizes from the Dark City Relic, The Triptych Whip . Agoniser & Archite Glaive

+ Troops [27 PL, 380pts] +

Kabalite Warriors [3 PL, 40pts], As Detachment (Kabal) . 4x Kabalite Warrior [32pts]: 4x Splinter Rifle . Sybarite [8pts]: Splinter Rifle

Wracks [3 PL, 40pts], As Detachment (Coven) . Acothyst [8pts]: Wrack Blade . 4x Wracks [32pts]: 4x Wrack Blade

Wracks [6 PL, 80pts], As Detachment (Coven) . Acothyst [8pts]: Wrack Blade . 9x Wracks [72pts]: 9x Wrack Blade

Wyches [3 PL, 60pts]: 2 – Grave Lotus (Combat Drug), As Detachment (Wych Cult) . Hekatrix [12pts]: Hekatarii Blade, Splinter Pistol . 4x Wych [48pts]: 4x Hekatarii Blade, 4x Plasma Grenades, 4x Splinter Pistol

+ Elites [3 PL, 75pts] +

Mandrakes [3 PL, 75pts], As Detachment (Kabal) . 4x Mandrake [60pts]: 4x Baleblast, 4x Glimmersteel Blade . Nightfiend [15pts]: Baleblast, Glimmersteel Blade

+ Fast Attack [45 PL, 1,020pts] +

Hellions [15 PL, 340pts]: 1 – Adrenalight (Combat Drug), As Detachment (Wych Cult) . Helliarch [17pts]: Hellglaive, Splinter Pods . 19x Hellion [323pts]: 19x Hellglaive, 19x Splinter Pods

+ Heavy Support [4 PL, 80pts] +

Cronos [4 PL, 80pts], As Detachment (Coven) . Cronos [4 PL, 80pts]: Spirit Probe [5pts], Spirit Syphon, Spirit-Leech Tentacles

+ Dedicated Transport [8 PL, 150pts] +

Venom [4 PL, 75pts]: As Detachment (Coven), Bladevanes, Splinter Cannon, Twin splinter rifle

++ Total: [104 PL, -3CP, 1,998pts] ++

Game Grid Hosts the Warhound GT

	Player	Faction
1	Ben Neal	Grey Knights
2	Matt Evans	Tyranids
3	Davis Sturgeon	Tyranids
4	Nicolas Wenker	Death Guard
5	Charles Metts	Drukhari
6	Evan Stump	Grey Knights
7	Jordan Gledhill	Sisters of Battle
8	Rich Kilton	Orks
9	Scott Rumple	Space Wolves
10	Roberto Medina	Drukhari

Lists

First Place – Ben Neal (Grey Knights)

Expand for Army List

++ Patrol Detachment 0CP (Imperium – Grey Knights) [60 PL, 1,060pts, 11CP] ++
+ Configuration +

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

Brotherhood: Wardmakers

Detachment Command Cost

+ HQ +

Brotherhood Chaplain [8 PL, 140pts]: 1. Words of Power, 5: Warp Shaping, Brotherhood Psyker Power, Crozius Arcanum, Frag & Krak grenades, Omen of Incursion, Storm Bolter

Brotherhood Librarian [8 PL, 135pts, -1CP]: 4: Purifying Flame, 4: Vortex of Doom, 6: Psychic Epitome, Brotherhood Psyker Power, Crux Terminatus, Exemplar of the Silver Host, Foretelling of Locus, Frag & Krak grenades, Loremaster, Warlord . Nemesis Force Sword: Nemesis Force Sword

+ Troops +

Strike Squad [12 PL, 220pts]: Brotherhood Psyker Power, Frag & Krak grenades . 9x Grey Knight (Falchions): 18x Nemesis Falchion, 9x Storm Bolter . Grey Knight Justicar: Storm Bolter . . Nemesis Falchions: 2x Nemesis Falchion

+ Fast Attack +

Interceptor Squad [14 PL, 240pts]: Brotherhood Psyker Power, Frag & Krak grenades . 9x Interceptor (Halberd): 9x Nemesis Force Halberd, 9x Storm Bolter . Interceptor Justicar: Frag & Krak grenades, Storm Bolter . . Nemesis Force Halberd: Nemesis Force Halberd

+ Dedicated Transport +

Rhino [4 PL, 85pts]: Additional Storm bolter, Storm bolter

++ Spearhead Detachment -3CP (Imperium – Grey Knights) [44 PL, 940pts, -4CP] ++

+ Configuration +

Brotherhood: Swordbearers

Detachment Command Cost [-3CP]

+ HQ +

Grand Master in Nemesis Dreadknight [11 PL, 235pts, -1CP]: 2: Empyric Amplification, 3: Unyielding Anvil, Brotherhood Psyker Power, Dreadfist, Dreadknight teleporter, Gatling Psilencer, Grand Master Chapter, Heavy Psycannon, Nemesis Greatsword, Servant of the Throne, Shield of Humanity, Sigil of Exigence

Kaldor Draigo [9 PL, 180pts]: Frag & Krak grenades, Master-crafted storm bolter, The Titansword

+ Heavy Support +

Nemesis Dreadknight [8 PL, 175pts]: Brotherhood Psyker Power, Dreadfist, Gatling Psilencer, Heavy Psycannon, Nemesis Greatsword

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

Key Features

3 Nemesis Dreadknights and a grandmaster in a dreadknight provides impressive firepower, close combat, and movement shenanigans via the teleporter. Once you start adding on psychic powers like Empyric amplification (+1 damage to psi weapons) your Dreadknight weapons start to pump out serious amounts of damage at range
The swordbearers stratagem means if you need something dead it’s likely going away
Wardmakers provides a lot of flexibility for your psykers by letting them recycle powers, and the warlord trait (Loremaster) means you can prevent your casts from being denied in key situations (sure it requires an 8+ but
Foretelling of Locus provides much needed flexibility that you can get from pre-game redeployment
Omen of Incursion punishes your opponent for bringing in models from reserves by letting you take potshots at them (likely, with your incredibly potent Dreadknights)
Also don’t discount strikes or interceptors, interceptors can move around the board swiftly via personal teleporters and the teleportation shunt stratagem. The fight on the move stratagem means interceptors can whisk themselves out of combat and still shoot or charge back in
Words of power further amplifies the weapons and then warp shaping provides you an opportunity to manipulate your tides as needed

TLDR

Four Dreadknights bring the heat while the little ones in power armor provide mobile elements for taking objectives or performing actions

Second Place – Matt Evans (Tyranids)

Expand for Army List

++ Battalion Detachment 0CP (Tyranids) [109 PL, 9CP, 2,000pts] ++

+ Configuration +

Army of Renown – Crusher Stampede

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

Detachment Command Cost

Hive Fleet: Leviathan

+ Stratagems +

Bounty of the Hive Fleet [-1CP]: 1 Extra Bio-artefact

Progeny of the Hive [-1CP]

+ HQ +

Hive Tyrant [11 PL, -1CP, 205pts]: Monstrous Boneswords, Monstrous Rending Claws, Power: Paroxysm, Power: The Horror, Relic: Synaptic Hive Blades, Stratagem: Alpha Leader-Beast, Warlord, Warlord Trait: Raging Influence, Wings . Adaptive Physiology: Murderous Size

Hive Tyrant [11 PL, 205pts]: 2x Monstrous Scything Talons, Power: Aggressive Surge, Power: Infused Energies,

Relic: Biomorphic Carapace, Wings

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

+ Troops +

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 +

Haruspex [9 PL, 170pts] . Adaptive Physiology: Murderous Size

Lictor [2 PL, 37pts]

Pyrovores [1 PL, 28pts]: Pyrovore

+ Heavy Support +

Barbed Hierodule [14 PL, 275pts]

+ Flyer +

Harpy [8 PL, 165pts]: 2x Heavy Venom Cannon

++ Total: [109 PL, 9CP, 2,000pts] ++

Third Place – Davis Sturgeon (Tyranids)

Expand for Army List

+ Battalion Detachment 0CP (Tyranids) [69 PL, 9CP, 1,300pts] ++
+ Configuration [12CP] +

Army of Renown – Crusher Stampede

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

Detachment Command Cost

Hive Fleet: Leviathan

+ Stratagems [-2CP] +

Bounty of the Hive Fleet [-1CP]: 1 Extra Bio-artefact [-1CP]

Progeny of the Hive [-1CP]

+ HQ [22 PL, -1CP, 420pts] +

Hive Tyrant [11 PL, 210pts]: 2x Monstrous Scything Talons [20pts], Adrenal Glands [5pts], Power: Catalyst, Power: Onslaught, Prehensile Pincer Tail, Relic: Resonance Barb, Wings [2 PL, 30pts]

Hive Tyrant [11 PL, -1CP, 210pts]: 2x Monstrous Scything Talons [20pts], Adrenal Glands [5pts], Power: Aggressive Surge, Power: Synaptic Barrier, Prehensile Pincer Tail, Relic: Biomorphic Carapace, Stratagem: Alpha Leader-Beast [-1CP], Warlord, Warlord Trait: Rampaging Beast, Warlord Trait: Strategic Adaptation, Wings [2 PL, 30pts]

+ Troops [23 PL, 375pts] +

Tyranid Warriors [13 PL, 243pts]: Synaptic Link: Bioweapon Bond [1 PL, 15pts] . Adaptive Physiology: Enhanced Resistance . Tyranid Warrior [17pts]: 2x Scything Talons . Tyranid Warrior [17pts]: 2x Scything Talons . Tyranid Warrior [26pts]: Boneswords [3pts], Deathspitter [6pts] . Tyranid Warrior [26pts]: Boneswords [3pts], Deathspitter [6pts] . Tyranid Warrior [26pts]: Boneswords [3pts], Deathspitter [6pts] . Tyranid Warrior [26pts]: Boneswords [3pts], Deathspitter [6pts] . Tyranid Warrior (Bio-cannon) [30pts]: Barbed Strangler [10pts], Boneswords [3pts] . Tyranid Warrior (Bio-cannon) [30pts]: Barbed Strangler [10pts], Boneswords [3pts] . Tyranid Warrior (Bio-cannon) [30pts]: Barbed Strangler [10pts], Boneswords [3pts]

Tyranid Warriors [5 PL, 66pts]: Synaptic Link: Bioweapon Bond [1 PL, 15pts] . Tyranid Warrior [17pts]: 2x Scything Talons . Tyranid Warrior [17pts]: 2x Scything Talons . Tyranid Warrior [17pts]: 2x Scything Talons

+ Elites [12 PL, 270pts] +

Hive Guard [12 PL, 270pts] . 6x Hive Guard (Impaler) [270pts]: 6x Impaler Cannon [60pts]

+ Heavy Support [12 PL, 235pts] +

Scythed Hierodule [12 PL, 235pts]: Bio-acid Spray, 2x Hierodule Scything Talons

++ Super-Heavy Auxiliary Detachment -3CP (Tyranids) [35 PL, -1CP, 700pts] ++

+ Configuration [-1CP] +

Detachment Command Cost [-3CP]

Hive Fleet: Leviathan

Shared Faction Bonus [2CP]

+ Lord of War [35 PL, 700pts] +

Harridan [35 PL, 700pts]: 2x Dire Bio-cannon, Gargantuan Scything Talons

Exterminatus IV: Wagga Wagga 40K Tournament

	Player	Faction
1	Rowan Kennett	Tyranids
2	Josh McMIllan	Sisters of Battle
3	Hayden Ford	Custodes
4	Richard Hill	Death Guard
5	Liam Pendergast	Chaos Marines
6	Carlos Garcia	Dark Angels
7	Sam Lemin	Drukhari
8	Timothy Kovacs	Chaos Knights
9	Richard King	Grey knights
10	Benny Bolwell	Custodes

Lists

First Place – Rowan Kennett (Tyranids)

Expand for Army List

++ Battalion Detachment 0CP (Tyranids) [107 PL, 9CP, 2,000pts] ++
+ Configuration +

Army of Renown – Crusher Stampede

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

Detachment Command Cost

Hive Fleet: Leviathan

+ Stratagems +

Bounty of the Hive Fleet [-1CP]: 1 Extra Bio-artefact

Progeny of the Hive [-1CP]

+ HQ +

Hive Tyrant [11 PL, 205pts]: Monstrous Rending Claws, Power: Catalyst, Power: The Horror, Relic: Biomorphic Carapace, Two Devourers with Brainleech Worms, Wings

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

The Swarmlord [14 PL, 240pts]: Power: Aggressive Surge, Power: Synaptic Barrier

+ Troops +

Tyranid Warriors [4 PL, 51pts] . Tyranid Warrior: 2x Scything Talons . Tyranid Warrior: 2x Scything Talons . Tyranid Warrior: 2x Scything Talons

Tyranid Warriors [5 PL, 69pts]: Adrenal Glands, Synaptic Link: Bioweapon Bond . Tyranid Warrior: 2x Scything Talons . Tyranid Warrior: 2x Scything Talons . Tyranid Warrior: 2x Scything Talons

Tyranid Warriors [4 PL, 51pts] . Tyranid Warrior: 2x Scything Talons . Tyranid Warrior: 2x Scything Talons . Tyranid Warrior: 2x Scything Talons

+ Elites +

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

Lictor [2 PL, 37pts]

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

+ Fast Attack +

Dimachaeron [12 PL, 255pts]

+ Heavy Support +

Barbed Hierodule [14 PL, 275pts]

Tyrannofex [9 PL, 175pts]: Acid Spray

Key Features

Similar to our previous GT winning Crusher stamped list your primary benefits are -1 damage, models on a point equal to your wounds for monster models and then a 5++ for your army
Key differences from the previous list include a malanthrope, which keeps your monsters safe by providing an aura of -1 to hit, and the adaptive neural lobe means you can regenerate much needed CP to keep your monster damage engine running, it becomes a true force multiplier via swarm leader and then redeploys provide another layer of jank
Hive guard ignoring AP1/2 via enhanced resistance and then impaler cannons means you’ve got plenty of durable artillery to punish your opponent, which get further boosted by symbiotic weapon bond, Leviathan stratagems, and full re-rolls from swarm leader
Focal essence on the Maleceptor means you ranged weapons (Mostly the Hive Guard) are even more efficient by making D3 damage more reliable and increasing the AP of your shots

TLDR

Big bugs, artillery, and force multipliers. What more could you ask for?

Second Place – Josh McMillan (Sisters of Battle)

Expand for Army List

++ Vanguard Detachment -3CP (Imperium – Adepta Sororitas) [40 PL, 828pts, -3CP] ++

+ Configuration +

Detachment Command Cost [-3CP]

Order Convictions: Order: Valorous Heart

+ 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, 140pts] . 9x Celestian Sacresant (Anointed Halberd): 9x Anointed Halberd, 9x Bolt pistol, 9x Frag & Krak grenades . Sacresant Superior: Anointed Halberd, Bolt pistol

Celestian Sacresants [6 PL, 126pts] . 8x Celestian Sacresant (Anointed Halberd): 8x Anointed Halberd, 8x Bolt pistol, 8x Frag & Krak grenades . Sacresant Superior: Anointed Halberd, Bolt pistol

Crusaders [1 PL, 22pts] . 2x Crusaders: 2x Power sword

Dialogus [3 PL, 50pts]: 1. Refrain of Blazing Piety

Dogmata [4 PL, 65pts]: 2. Chorus of Spiritual Fortitude, 4. Litany of Enduring Faith, Relic: The Sigil Ecclesiasticus

+ Fast Attack +

Zephyrim Squad [4 PL, 85pts] . 4x Zephyrim: 4x Bolt pistol, 4x Frag & Krak grenades, 4x Power sword . Zephyrim Superior: Bolt pistol

++ Patrol Detachment 0CP (Imperium – Adepta Sororitas) [60 PL, 1,172pts, 10CP] ++

+ Configuration +

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

Detachment Command Cost

Order Convictions: Order: Our Martyred Lady

+ Stratagems +

Stratagem: Open the Reliquaries [-1CP]: Additional Relics of the Ecclesiarchy

+ No Force Org Slot +

Hospitaller [3 PL, 50pts]

+ HQ +

Canoness [5 PL, 100pts, -1CP]: Inferno pistol, Power sword, Relic: Blade of Sacrifice, Stratagem: Saint in the Making, Warlord Trait: 3. Martyr’s Strength . Word of the Emperor

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 +

Crusaders [1 PL, 22pts] . 2x Crusaders: 2x Power sword

Sisters Repentia [3 PL, 56pts] . 4x Sisters Repentia: 4x Penitent Eviscerator

+ Fast Attack +

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

Zephyrim Squad [8 PL, 124pts] . 6x Zephyrim: 6x Bolt pistol, 6x Frag & Krak grenades, 6x Power sword . Zephyrim Superior: Bolt pistol, Zephyrim Pennant

+ Heavy Support +

Retributor Squad [6 PL, 140pts]: 2x Armourium Cherub . Retributor Superior . . Bolt Pistol & Boltgun . Retributor w/ Heavy Weapon: Multi-melta . Retributor w/ Heavy Weapon: Multi-melta . Retributor w/ Heavy Weapon: Ministorum Heavy Flamer . Retributor w/ Heavy Weapon: Multi-melta

Retributor Squad [6 PL, 120pts]: 2x Armourium Cherub . Retributor . Retributor Superior . . Bolt Pistol & Boltgun . Retributor w/ Heavy Weapon: Multi-melta . Retributor w/ Heavy Weapon: Multi-melta . Retributor w/ Heavy Weapon: Ministorum Heavy Flamer

+ Dedicated Transport +

Sororitas Rhino [4 PL, 80pts]

++ Total: [100 PL, 7CP, 2,000pts] ++

Third Place – Harden Ford (Custodes)

Expand for Army List

++ Battalion Detachment 0CP (Imperium – Adeptus Custodes) [95 PL, -3CP, 1,998pts] ++
+ Configuration +

Detachment Command Cost

Shield Host: Shadowkeepers

+ Stratagems +

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

+ HQ +

Captain-General Trajann Valoris [10 PL, -1CP, 190pts]: Champion of the Imperium, Ten Thousand Heroes

Shield-Captain on Dawneagle Jetbike [9 PL, -1CP, 178pts]: Auric Aquilas, Captain-Commander, Lockwarden, Misericordia, Salvo Launcher, Unstoppable Destroyer, Warlord

+ Troops +

Sagittarum Custodians [10 PL, 212pts] . Sagittarum Custodian: Misericordia . Sagittarum Custodian: Misericordia . Sagittarum Custodian: Misericordia . Sagittarum Custodian: Misericordia

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

+ Elites +

Vexilus Praetor in Allarus Terminator Armor [7 PL, 128pts]: Misericordia, Raiment of Sorrows, Vexilla Magnifica

+ Fast Attack +

Venatari Custodians [8 PL, 165pts] . Venatari Custodian . . Kinetic Destroyer and Tarsus Buckler . Venatari Custodian . . Kinetic Destroyer and Tarsus Buckler . Venatari Custodian . . Kinetic Destroyer and Tarsus Buckler

++ Total: [95 PL, -3CP, 1,998pts] ++

Da Bolton Waaagh

	Player	Faction
1	Henry Bearne	Drukhari
2	Michael Armer	Custodes
3	Keith Wilkinson	Grey Knights
4	Ben Taylor	Space Marines
5	Markus Hinson	Imperium
6	Mike Porter	Chaos Knights
7	Jay Wood	Drukhari
8	Dean Fearis	Drukhari
9	Chris O’Connor	Orks
10	Kieran Leniewski	Necrons

Lists

First Place – Henry Bearne (Drukhari)

Expand for Army List

++ Patrol Detachment 0CP (Aeldari – Drukhari) [82 PL, 1,289pts] ++

+ Configuration +

Detachment Command Cost

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

+ HQ +

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

+ Troops +

Wracks [6 PL, 85pts]: As Detachment (Coven) . Acothyst: Wrack Blade . Wrack w/ Special Weapon: Ossefactor . 8x Wracks: 8x Wrack Blade

Wracks [6 PL, 77pts]: As Detachment (Coven) . Acothyst: Wrack Blade . Wrack w/ Special Weapon: Ossefactor . 7x Wracks: 7x Wrack Blade

+ Elites +

Grotesques [12 PL, 175pts]: As Detachment (Coven) . Grotesque w/ Monstrous Cleaver . Grotesque w/ Monstrous Cleaver . Grotesque w/ Monstrous Cleaver . Grotesque w/ Monstrous Cleaver . Grotesque w/ Monstrous Cleaver

+ Heavy Support +

++ Patrol Detachment -2CP (Aeldari – Drukhari) [41 PL, 8CP, 710pts] ++

+ Configuration +

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

Detachment Command Cost [-2CP]

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

+ Stratagems +

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

+ HQ +

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

+ Troops +

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

+ Elites +

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

+ 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

+ Dedicated Transport +

Venom [4 PL, 75pts]: As Detachment, Splinter Cannon, Twin splinter rifle

++ Total: [123 PL, 8CP, 1,999pts] ++

Key Features

A Thiccc City pain engine variant, this time with 8 Talos, 15 grotesques, and a bevy of wracks all in Artists of Flesh detachments to make them much more tacky
Mandrakes provide easy ROD or can harass backline objective holders, or can infiltrate and screen making the impressively flexible
Competitive Edge/Triptych Whip succubus still provides impressive blending abilities
Animus Vitae toting haemonculus means you can manipulate PFP, heal monsters, and provide a convenient aura of +1 Toughness that’ll help keep your pain engines and grotesques alive late into the game
A venom provides a transport that can move wrakcs and the succubus around the map, meaning that no part of the table is completely safe from your infantry forces
Another list without Drazhar or Cronos? Perhaps this is a trend?

TLDR

8 pain engines? 15 grotesques? 30 or so wracks? That’s enough to build a durable army that will take the board while delivering the hurt.

Second Place – Michael Armer (Custodes)

Expand for Army List

+ Battalion Detachment 0CP (Imperium – Adeptus Custodes) [95 PL, 7CP, 1,999pts] ++
+ Configuration +

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

Detachment Command Cost

Gametype: Matched

Shield Host: Shadowkeepers

+ HQ +

Captain-General Trajann Valoris [10 PL, 190pts]: Champion of the Imperium, Warlord

Shield-Captain on Dawneagle Jetbike [9 PL, -2CP, 175pts]: Captain-Commander, Indomitable Constitution, Salvo Launcher, Superior Creation, 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

+ Elites +

Vexilus Praetor [6 PL, 125pts]: Storm Shield, Vexilla Magnifica

+ Heavy Support +

Telemon Heavy Dreadnought [14 PL, -1CP, 295pts]: Arachnus Storm Cannon, Eternal Penitent . Telemon Caestus

++ Total: [95 PL, 7CP, 1,999pts] ++

Third Place – Keith Wilkinson (Grey Knights)

Expand for Army List

++ Patrol Detachment 0CP (Imperium – Grey Knights) [53 PL, 990pts] ++
+ Configuration +

Brotherhood: Prescient Brethren

Detachment Command Cost

+ HQ [11 PL, 225pts] +

Grand Master in Nemesis Dreadknight [11 PL, 225pts]: 1: Gate of Infinity, 2: Empyric Amplification, 3: Unyielding Anvil, Brotherhood Psyker Power, Dreadfist, Gatling Psilencer [20pts], Grand Master Chapter, Heavy Psycannon [20pts], Nemesis Greatsword [15pts], Servant of the Throne [1 PL, 20pts], Warlord

+ Troops [6 PL, 110pts] +

Strike Squad [6 PL, 110pts]: Brotherhood Psyker Power, Frag & Krak grenades . 4x Grey Knight (Halberd) [88pts]: 4x Nemesis Force Halberd, 4x Storm Bolter . Grey Knight Justicar [22pts]: Storm Bolter . . Nemesis Force Halberd: Nemesis Force Halberd

+ Fast Attack [28 PL, 480pts] +

Interceptor Squad [14 PL, 240pts]: Brotherhood Psyker Power, Frag & Krak grenades . 9x Interceptor (Halberd) [216pts]: 9x Nemesis Force Halberd, 9x Storm Bolter . Interceptor Justicar [24pts]: Frag & Krak grenades, Storm Bolter . . Nemesis Force Halberd: Nemesis Force Halberd

+ Heavy Support [8 PL, 175pts] +

Nemesis Dreadknight [8 PL, 175pts]: Brotherhood Psyker Power, Dreadfist, Gatling Psilencer [20pts], Heavy Psycannon [20pts], Nemesis Greatsword [15pts]

++ Patrol Detachment -2CP (Imperium – Grey Knights) [52 PL, -3CP, 1,010pts] ++

+ Configuration [-2CP] +

Brotherhood: Prescient Brethren

Detachment Command Cost [-2CP]

+ HQ [16 PL, -1CP, 310pts] +

Brotherhood Librarian [6 PL, -1CP, 105pts]: 4: Purifying Flame, 4: Vortex of Doom, 6: Psychic Epitome, Brotherhood Psyker Power, Crux Terminatus, Frag & Krak grenades, Shield of Humanity [-1CP] . Nemesis Warding Stave: Nemesis Warding Stave

Grand Master in Nemesis Dreadknight [10 PL, 205pts]: 1: Gate of Infinity, 5: Warp Shaping, Brotherhood Psyker Power, Dreadfist, Gatling Psilencer [20pts], Grand Master Chapter, Heavy Psycannon [20pts], Nemesis Greatsword [15pts], Sigil of Exigence

+ Troops [6 PL, 110pts] +

+ Fast Attack [14 PL, 240pts] +

+ Heavy Support [16 PL, 350pts] +

Nemesis Dreadknight [8 PL, 175pts]: Brotherhood Psyker Power, Dreadfist, Gatling Psilencer [20pts], Heavy Psycannon [20pts], Nemesis Greatsword [15pts]

++ Total: [105 PL, -3CP, 2,000pts] ++

That’s it for this week’s Meta Analysis! Check back in next week to go over what happens this weekend in competitive 40k!

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