Another week, another spectacular series of events, including both the second Goonhammer Open (this time a major in the UK) and the SoCal Open supermajor. Past that, we had an incredible three additional majors across Europe and the US, and a hefty crop of GTs.
So massive was the weekend, in fact, that even with the new format shrinking GTs down to just undefeated lists for the full writeups, this column needs to be split in two (especially as I’m still recovering from being head judge at a major all weekend).
Today I will be looking at:
- Lists of the week
- The Goonhammer Open UK
- The Frontline Gaming SoCal Open
- The Hanseatic Alliance Open
Tomorrow will cover:
- The Malmö Wargaming Weekend
- Stud or Snotling
- All the GTs
As ever, there’s a list of current list archetypes here, which will be frequently referenced, and players who were undefeated going into the final round of an event (or were otherwise in contention to win the whole thing as the round started) will have a ✪ next to their placing.
Let’s roll.
Lists of the Week
This section highlights two lists from Best of the Rest sections that are particularly unusual or innovative.
Scott LaFountain – Chaos Daemons – 8th Place SoCal Open
The List
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 Poxbringer [4 PL, 75pts]: Balesword, Fleshy Abundance, Smite + Troops + Nurglings [3 PL, 66pts] Nurglings [3 PL, 66pts] Nurglings [3 PL, 66pts] + Elites + Beasts of Nurgle [2 PL, 35pts] Beasts of Nurgle [2 PL, 35pts] ++ 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] Daemonettes [4 PL, 70pts] Daemonettes [4 PL, 70pts] + Elites + Fiends [4 PL, 80pts] ++ Total: [101 PL, 4CP, 1,998pts] ++
. Exalted Lord of Change: 5. Aura of Mutability
. 3x Nurgling Swarms: 3x Diseased claws and teeth
. 3x Nurgling Swarms: 3x Diseased claws and teeth
. 3x Nurgling Swarms: 3x Diseased claws and teeth
. Beast of Nurgle: Putrid appendages
. Beast of Nurgle: Putrid appendages
. Alluress: Piercing claws
. 9x Daemonette: 9x Piercing claws
. Alluress: Piercing claws
. 9x Daemonette: 9x Piercing claws
. Alluress: Piercing claws
. 9x Daemonette: 9x Piercing claws
. 2x Fiend: 2x Dissecting claws, 2x Vicious barbed tail
The Standout Features
- Be’lakor continues to prove he’s the real deal, and keep Daemons at least somewhat in the conversation.
- Nice demonstration of how to build in some layered board control and objective capabilities for the minimum possible point spend.
Why it’s Interesting in 9th
This list caught our eye as we caught up with the results from the SoCal swiss section, as in a top eight dominated by the game’s best factions, Daemons really stand out. While Scott was defeated by the eventual winner in the first round of the top eight, the list of armies he defeated on the way there is pretty impressive, so it’s definitely worth looking at what makes this list tick.
The headline answer there is obviously “Be’lakor” (though there’s a bit more to it when you dig in). Be’lakor rules, and is a very well designed unit that has proven quite a bit stronger than initial naysayers would have expected. The layered defences he has by default, powerful offensive profile and strong synergy with other big Daemons (and the tricks of various gods) creates a unit that feels very well worth his price tag without being oppressive, and one that rewards clever play. He’s somewhat unique in the current metagame in that almost any list can take a swing at him and miss, but the fact that he flies and will trash pretty much any large target he goes into means that shooty lists with planes can’t just ignore him, and if they do he can do serious damage. Pall of Despair is also a powerful, versatile tool to punish opponents who leave him in the game, and being able to benefit from Locus of Swiftness keeps him extremely mobile, and all that adds up to a centrepiece model that works – he can be killed, but they’ll have to work hard enough for it that you’ll have other stuff to operate with, and if they choose to kill your other stuff he’ll dominate the game. Only a crippling weakness to the Competitive Edge Succubus and Venom spam keeps him from being even more of a big league player right now, but he still kicks ass.
It also helps that he slots into the Daemon list extremely effectively. Threat-wise, he provides a mixture of critical mass and redundancy for both fast killers (alongside Keepers) and hyper-durable nightmares (Big Bird), making it far more challenging for opponents to defang armies, and providing capacity to deal with AIRCRAFT shores up the weaknesses of the army in general. As this list demonstrates, Daemons can also cover their bases on ObSec board control and objective play at a bargain price. For just over 500pts here, you’ve got ObSec scouts, cheap infantry that can deep strike with a strat and potentially soak up a charge with Aura of Acquiescence, melee trappers in the Fiends, and relatively durable single models for Engage. That’s an impressive toolbox that provides reliable scoring, and it still leaves a massive pile of points to spend on big threats that will keep the enemy occupied while victory points are accumulated.
Essentially, this army demonstrates how Be’lakor really amplifies the strengths of his faction and lets you create something that functions effectively even in a very inclement metagame. Great work from Scott.
Matthew Doughman – Imperial Knights – 4th Place Khornehusker
The List
Army List - Click to Expand ++ Super-Heavy Detachment 0CP (Imperium – Imperial Knights) [69 PL, 8CP, 1,365pts] ++ + Configuration + Household Choice: Questor Mechanicus + Stratagems + Exalted Court [-1CP]: Exalted Court: 1 Extra Warlord Trait Heirlooms of the Household [-3CP]: Heirlooms of the Household: 2 Extra Heirlooms + Lord of War + Armiger Warglaives [7 PL, 135pts] Armiger Warglaives [7 PL, 135pts] Armiger Warglaives [7 PL, 135pts] Questoris Knight Magaera [24 PL, 480pts]: Character (Heirloom of the House), Heirloom: Armour of the Sainted Ion Questoris Knight Magaera [24 PL, 480pts]: Character (Knight Lance), Heirloom (Krast): The Headsman’s Mark, Warlord, Warlord Trait (Krast): First Knight ++ Super-Heavy Auxiliary Detachment -3CP (Imperium – Imperial Knights) [32 PL, -1CP, 635pts] ++ + Configuration + Detachment Command Cost [-3CP] Household Choice: Questor Mechanicus Shared Faction Bonus [2CP] + Lord of War + Knight Castellan [32 PL, 635pts]: Character (Exalted Court), Character (Heirloom of the House), Heirloom: Cawl’s Wrath, Warlord Trait: Ion Bulwark ++ Total: [101 PL, 7CP, 2,000pts] ++
. House Krast
. Armiger Warglaive: Heavy Stubber
. Armiger Warglaive: Heavy Stubber
. Armiger Warglaive: Heavy Stubber
. Hekaton Siege Claw and Twin Rad-Cleanser
. Hekaton Siege Claw and Twin Rad-Cleanser
. House Raven
. Two Siegebreaker Cannons and Two Shieldbreaker Missiles: 2x Twin Siegebreaker Cannon
The Standout Features
- Cunning use of the Super Heavy Auxiliary refund to mix up Knight houses.
Why it’s Interesting in 9th
This isn’t a particularly complicated army composition wise, following a pattern that’s definitely been working for Knights recently, but it’s in here because I looked at it and had one of those moments of going “…huh, I guess you can do that”. The Shared Faction bonus that lets you refund your first Super Heavy Auxiliary if it matches your warlord’s faction has overwhelmingly been used by Chaos armies to take a Lord of Skulls, but this army shows of something clever you can do with it – make one of your Knights a different household than the rest at a relatively minimal CP cost. You don’t get the Household Trait, sure, but in Knights you do get access to the Warlord traits, relics and stratagems for your off-brand Knight, and that opens up some options. Here, the Castellan is wearing classic Raven colours, providing it with access to both Order of Companions and also the new tricks from the House Raven supplement, possibly letting you catch your opponent out with a clutch Horrors at Bay or Shadow’s Reach.
Raven and Krast is probably the standout option, but going for the highroll on a Taranis Castellan probably isn’t out of the question either, and if you wanted some of the energy that’s been powering the Freeblade Lance then taking one knight from an Imperialis house so you can have the Banner of Macharius Triumphant seems plausible too. Not suddenly metagame defining or anything, but a neat trick certainly, and it seemed worth highlighting!
Goonhammer Open UK (major)
Mike Porter – Aeldari – 1st Place
The List
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] Troupe [5 PL, 120pts] Troupe [5 PL, 120pts] Troupe [5 PL, 120pts] + Fast Attack + Skyweavers [15 PL, 270pts] + Dedicated Transport + Starweaver [4 PL, 80pts] Starweaver [4 PL, 80pts] Starweaver [4 PL, 80pts] Starweaver [4 PL, 80pts] ++ Spearhead Detachment -3CP (Aeldari – Craftworlds) [32 PL, 663pts, -3CP] ++ + Configuration + Craftworld Attribute 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] Shining Spears [5 PL, 105pts] + Heavy Support + Dark Reapers [5 PL, 106pts] Dark Reapers [5 PL, 106pts] Dark Reapers [5 PL, 106pts] ++ Total: [97 PL, 7CP, 1,998pts] ++
. 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
. 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
. 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
. 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
. Skyweaver: Haywire Cannon, Zephyrglaive
. Skyweaver: Haywire Cannon, Zephyrglaive
. Skyweaver: Haywire Cannon, Zephyrglaive
. Skyweaver: Haywire Cannon, Zephyrglaive
. Skyweaver: Haywire Cannon, Star Bolas
. *Custom Craftworld*: Expert Crafters, Masterful Shots
. 2x Shining Spear: 2x Laser Lance, 2x Twin Shuriken Catapult
. Shining Spear Exarch: Laser Lance
. . Exarch Power: Skilled Rider
. 2x Shining Spear: 2x Laser Lance, 2x Twin Shuriken Catapult
. Shining Spear Exarch: Laser Lance
. . Exarch Power: Skilled Rider
. 2x Dark Reaper: 2x Reaper Launcher
. Dark Reaper Exarch: Tempest Launcher
. . Exarch Power: Crack Shot
. 2x Dark Reaper: 2x Reaper Launcher
. Dark Reaper Exarch: Tempest Launcher
. . Exarch Power: Crack Shot
. 2x Dark Reaper: 2x Reaper Launcher
. Dark Reaper Exarch: Tempest Launcher
. . Exarch Power: Crack Shot
Archetype
Harlequins and Artillery
Why it’s Interesting in 9th
Mike continues the absolute tear he’s been on with mixed Aeldari this year by taking the coveted champion’s belt at the Goonhammer Open. The list is pretty much the same as in previous iterations, still providing an exquisite combination of speed, reach and threat, but if anything has gotten better as the metagame has evolved. That’s mostly because Shining Spears are awesome into Grey Knights and Thousand Sons, equipped with weaponry that’s ideal for picking the enemy up, fast enough to counterattack into them from a safe distance, and cheap enough that if they go in, cause some havoc and then die you can kind of shrug – you’ve got your points’ worth. Both they and the Skyweavers are also effective in a metagame where Marines are dependent on drop pods, as they’ve got the speed to go in and tag them, then either finish them off in the opponent’s turn or break off with either Feigned Retreat or Rising Crescendo, and can help against Orks by giving you the tools to tag and shut down lots of buggy units at once.
Add in the additional movement tricks this list has from the Domino Shroud, Skystrider and Twilight Pathways, weaponry for taking on pretty much any target and Mike’s considerable experience with the build and you’ve got a truly lethal combination. Huge congratulations to Mike, and we’ll expect to see you back defending your title at the next one.
David Gaylard – Adeptus Mechanicus – 2nd ✪ Place
The List
Army List - Click to Expand ++ Battalion Detachment 0CP (Imperium – Adeptus Mechanicus) ++ + Configuration Detachment Command Cost + Stratagems + Stratagem: Archeotech Specialist: Archeotech Specialist + HQ + Skitarii Marshal: Relic (Lucius): The Solar Flare, Warlord, Warlord Trait (Codex 5): Firepoint Telemetry Cache Tech-Priest Manipulus: Logi, Magnarail lance, Mechanicus Locum, Relic: Raiment of the Technomartyr, Warlord Trait (Lucius): Luminescent Blessings + Troops + Skitarii Rangers: Enhanced Data-Tether, Omnispex . Skitarii Rangers: Enhanced Data-Tether, Omnispex Skitarii Rangers: Enhanced Data-Tether, Omnispex + Elites + Sicarian Infiltrators + Fast Attack + Serberys Raiders: Serberys Raider Alpha ++ Outrider Detachment -3CP (Imperium – Adeptus Mechanicus) ++ + Configuration + Detachment Command Cost Forge World Choice: Forge World: Mars + Stratagems + Stratagem: Archeotech Specialist: Archeotech Specialist + HQ + Tech-Priest Enginseer: Relic: The Omniscient Mask + Elites + Sicarian Ruststalkers Sicarian Ruststalkers + Fast Attack + Ironstrider Ballistarii Ironstrider Ballistarii Ironstrider Ballistarii Pteraxii Sterylizors: Pteraxii Sterylizor Alpha + Flyer + Archaeopter Stratoraptor: Chaff Launcher Archaeopter Stratoraptor: Chaff Launcher + Dedicated Transport + Skorpius Dunerider ++ Total: [99 PL, 4CP, 1,998pts] ++
+ Battle Size: 3. Strike Force (101-200 Total PL / 1001-2000 Points)
STARTING CP: 4
Forge World Choice: Forge World: Lucius
Stratagem: Host of the Intermediary: Host of the Intermediary
Stratagem: Mechanicus Locum: Mechanicus Locum
Ranger Alpha: Galvanic Rifle, Host of the Intermediary, Warlord Trait (Codex 3): Programmed Retreat
. 18x Skitarii Ranger: 18x Galvanic Rifle
. Skitarii Ranger (Plasma caliver): Plasma Caliver
. Ranger Alpha: Galvanic Rifle
. 18x Skitarii Ranger: 18x Galvanic Rifle
. Skitarii Ranger (Plasma caliver): Plasma Caliver
. Ranger Alpha: Galvanic Rifle
. 18x Skitarii Ranger: 18x Galvanic Rifle
. Skitarii Ranger (Plasma caliver): Plasma Caliver
. Infiltrator Princeps (Flechette/Taser)
. 4x Sicarian Infiltrator (Flechette/Taser): 4x Flechette Blaster, 4x Taser Goad
. 2x Serberys Raider: 2x Cavalry Sabre, 2x Clawed Limbs, 2x Galvanic Carbine
Stratagem: Artefactorum: Artefactorum
. Ruststalker Princeps (Blades): Artefactorum, Relic: Temporcopia
. 6x Sicarian Ruststalker (Blades): 6x Transonic Blades
. Ruststalker Princeps (Razor)
. 4x Sicarian Ruststalker (Razor/Chordclaw): 4x Chordclaw, 4x Transonic Razor
. Ironstrider Ballistarius: Twin Cognis Lascannon
. Ironstrider Ballistarius: Twin Cognis Autocannon
. Ironstrider Ballistarius: Twin Cognis Lascannon
. Ironstrider Ballistarius: Twin Cognis Lascannon
. 8x Pteraxii Sterylizor: 8x Phosphor torch, 8x Pteraxii Talons
Archetype
Mars/Lucius
Why it’s Interesting in 9th
Hot on Mike’s heels as the second undefeated player (the final placings came down to a single victory point) we have Dice Down’s David Gaylard, also continuing an excellent recent run with his spin on Mars/Lucius AdMech. The main distinction between David’s build and the conventional lists is dialing down to only two planes in favour of a few more utility units and depth. Two Stratoraptors with Mars buffs up still provides an extremely hefty alpha strike, and the games where you need more killing power than that tend to be the mirror and Orks, where they aren’t going to be able to hide all of their units from the Ironstriders on the ground anyway, so enough damage can still be done.
That frees up points for a big unit of Pteraxii Sterylizors, who are excellent all-rounders in Mars thanks to Wrath of Mars (plus remove the need to run a non-Lucius Skitarii unit to benefit from it) and a second Ruststalker unit to mount up in a Dunerider, providing both reach to get them where they need to be and a relatively durable and speedy unit to push onto a mid-table objective when needed, forcing the opponent to expose some of their bigger guns to get rid of it. We had multiple different terrain layouts varying by mission at the GHO, so having a variety of tools to adapt to contesting objectives on different setups was definitely valuable. With the increased terrain density at the upcoming Coventry GT compared to the LGT, it’ll be interesting to see if more lists choose this route.
I think that’s all that needs to be said here – ultimately this list still maximises all of AdMech’s biggest strengths and stands as one of the strongest armies out there. Congratulations to David!
Martyn Cooper – Drukhari – 3rd ✪ Place
The List
Army List - Click to Expand ++ Battalion Detachment -3CP (Aeldari – Drukhari) [50 PL, 861pts, 7CP] ++ + 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 [5 PL, 66pts]: As Detachment (Kabal) + HQ + Archon [5 PL, 90pts, -1CP]: Blast Pistol, Hatred Eternal, Huskblade, Overlord, Stratagem: Tolerated Ambition, The Djin Blade + Troops + Kabalite Trueborn [8 PL, 140pts] Kabalite Warriors [3 PL, 55pts]: As Detachment (Kabal) Wracks [3 PL, 65pts]: As Detachment (Coven) + Elites + Incubi [4 PL, 80pts] Incubi [4 PL, 80pts] + Dedicated Transport + Raider [6 PL, 95pts]: Dark Lance Raider [6 PL, 95pts]: Dark Lance Raider [6 PL, 95pts]: Dark Lance ++ Patrol Detachment -2CP (Aeldari – Drukhari) [40 PL, 720pts] ++ + Configuration + Obsession: Kabal of the Poisoned Tongue: The Serpent’s Kiss + HQ + Archon [5 PL, 85pts]: Blast Pistol, Overlord, Venom Blade + Troops + Kabalite Trueborn [8 PL, 140pts] Wracks [3 PL, 60pts]: As Detachment (Coven) Wracks [3 PL, 60pts]: As Detachment (Coven) + Elites + Mandrakes [3 PL, 75pts] + Dedicated Transport + Raider [6 PL, 100pts]: Dark Lance, Grisly Trophies Raider [6 PL, 100pts]: Dark Lance, Grisly Trophies Raider [6 PL, 100pts]: Dark Lance, Grisly Trophies ++ Patrol Detachment 0CP (Aeldari – Drukhari) [22 PL, 415pts, -2CP] ++ + Configuration + Obsession: Cult of Strife: The Spectacle of Murder, Realspace Raid + Stratagems + Stratagem: Prizes from the Dark City [-1CP] + HQ + Succubus [3 PL, 60pts, -1CP]: 1 – Adrenalight (Combat Drug), As Detachment (Wych Cult), Competitive Edge, Stratagem: Tolerated Ambition, The Triptych Whip Succubus [3 PL, 60pts]: 1 – Adrenalight (Combat Drug), As Detachment (Wych Cult), Dark Lotus Toxin, Precision Blows, Razorflails, Warlord + Troops + Wyches [3 PL, 50pts]: 2 – Grave Lotus (Combat Drug) Wyches [3 PL, 50pts]: 2 – Grave Lotus (Combat Drug) Wyches [3 PL, 50pts]: 2 – Grave Lotus (Combat Drug) + Fast Attack + Hellions [4 PL, 85pts]: *Random x 2* (Combat Drug), As Detachment (Wych Cult) Reavers [3 PL, 60pts]: 3 – Hypex (Combat Drug), As Detachment (Wych Cult) ++ Total: [112 PL, 5CP, 1,996pts] ++
. Sslyth
. Ur-Ghul: As Detachment (Kabal)
. Ur-Ghul: As Detachment (Kabal)
. Ur-Ghul: As Detachment (Kabal)
. Splintered Genius (Black Heart): Splintered Genius
. 6x Kabalite Trueborn: 6x Splinter Rifle
. Kabalite Trueborn w/ Heavy Weapon: Dark Lance
. Kabalite Trueborn w/ Special Weapon: Blaster
. Kabalite Trueborn w/ Special Weapon: Blaster
. Trueborn Sybarite: Blast Pistol
. 3x Kabalite Warrior: 3x Splinter Rifle
. Kabalite Warrior w/ Special Weapon: Blaster
. Sybarite: Blast Pistol
. Acothyst: Electrocorrosive Whip, Liquifier Gun
. Wrack w/ Special Weapon: Liquifier Gun
. 3x Wracks: 3x Wrack Blade
. 4x Incubi: 4x Klaive
. Klaivex: Klaive
. 4x Incubi: 4x Klaive
. Klaivex: Klaive
. Splintered Genius (Poisoned Tongue): Splintered Genius
. 6x Kabalite Trueborn: 6x Splinter Rifle
. Kabalite Trueborn w/ Heavy Weapon: Dark Lance
. Kabalite Trueborn w/ Special Weapon: Blaster
. Kabalite Trueborn w/ Special Weapon: Blaster
. Trueborn Sybarite: Blast Pistol
. Acothyst: Liquifier Gun, Wrack Blade
. Wrack w/ Special Weapon: Liquifier Gun
. 3x Wracks: 3x Wrack Blade
. Acothyst: Liquifier Gun, Wrack Blade
. Wrack w/ Special Weapon: Liquifier Gun
. 3x Wracks: 3x Wrack Blade
. 4x Mandrake: 4x Baleblast, 4x Glimmersteel Blade
. Nightfiend
. Agoniser & Archite Glaive
. Hekatrix: Hekatarii Blade, Splinter Pistol
. 4x Wych: 4x Hekatarii Blade, 4x Plasma Grenades, 4x Splinter Pistol
. Hekatrix: Hekatarii Blade, Splinter Pistol
. 4x Wych: 4x Hekatarii Blade, 4x Plasma Grenades, 4x Splinter Pistol
. Hekatrix: Hekatarii Blade, Splinter Pistol
. 4x Wych: 4x Hekatarii Blade, 4x Plasma Grenades, 4x Splinter Pistol
. Helliarch: Hellglaive
. 4x Hellion: 4x Hellglaive, 4x Splinter Pods
. Arena Champion: Splinter Rifle
. 2x Reaver: 2x Bladevanes, 2x Splinter Pistol, 2x Splinter Rifle
Archetype
Double Trueborn
Why it’s Interesting in 9th
Martyn was our other finalist from the event, only losing at the last in a close game against Mike. In terms of the tools in play, this is another army which isn’t going to look too surprising to regular readers – lots of the best Drukhari goodstuff toys are in play – but like a lot of successful lists recently it’s a little more specialised than we used to see. Here the focus is on transport-bound shooting, with the double Trueborn option on show alongside a return of some liquifier Wracks, who even without Dark Technomancers are still pretty nasty into plenty of things. Those toys are protected by the inclusion of a Poisoned Tongue detachment with three Raiders for the best units to ride in, allowing them to be pulled with Insidious Misdirection when needed, helping ensure the army has a fighting chance in most matchups even going second.
Beyond that, it’s mostly business as usual, with the only other toy to highlight being the small Hypex Reaver unit, ideal for reaching out and tagging an enemy shooting threat in an emergency, something that’s very worth considering as a substitute for a utility unit for 60pts. Congratulations to Martyn for piloting this powerful toolbox all the way to the top table.
Malik Amin Rubio – Adeptus Mechanicus – 4th Place
The List
Army List - Click to Expand ++ Patrol Detachment 0CP (Imperium – Adeptus Mechanicus) [25 PL, 520pts, 9CP] ++ + Configuration + Battle Size [12CP]: 3. Strike Force (101-200 Total PL / 1001-2000 Points) Detachment Command Cost Forge World Choice: Forge World: Lucius Gametype: Matched + Stratagems + Stratagem: Archeotech Specialist [-1CP]: Archeotech Specialist Stratagem: Host of the Intermediary [-1CP]: Host of the Intermediary Stratagem: Mechanicus Locum [-1CP]: Mechanicus Locum + HQ + Skitarii Marshal [3 PL, 45pts]: Mechanicus Locum, Relic (Lucius): The Solar Flare, Warlord Trait (Codex 5): Firepoint Telemetry Cache Tech-Priest Manipulus [6 PL, 105pts]: Logi, Magnarail lance, Relic: Raiment of the Technomartyr, Warlord, Warlord Trait (Lucius): Luminescent Blessings + Troops + Skitarii Rangers [8 PL, 190pts]: Enhanced Data-Tether, Omnispex Skitarii Rangers [8 PL, 180pts]: Enhanced Data-Tether, Omnispex ++ Patrol Detachment -2CP (Imperium – Adeptus Mechanicus) [39 PL, 785pts, -2CP] ++ + Configuration + Detachment Command Cost [-2CP] Forge World Choice: Forge World: Mars + HQ + Tech-Priest Manipulus [5 PL, 95pts]: Artisans, Magnarail lance + Troops + Skitarii Rangers [8 PL, 180pts]: Enhanced Data-Tether, Omnispex + Fast Attack + Ironstrider Ballistarii [4 PL, 75pts] Ironstrider Ballistarii [4 PL, 75pts] + Flyer + Archaeopter Stratoraptor [9 PL, 180pts]: Chaff Launcher Archaeopter Stratoraptor [9 PL, 180pts]: Chaff Launcher ++ Patrol Detachment -2CP (Imperium – Adeptus Mechanicus) [38 PL, 694pts, -2CP] ++ + Configuration + Detachment Command Cost [-2CP] Forge World Choice: Forge World: Mars + HQ + Skitarii Marshal [3 PL, 45pts] + Troops + Skitarii Rangers [2 PL, 40pts] + Elites + Sicarian Infiltrators [4 PL, 85pts] Sicarian Ruststalkers [8 PL, 119pts] + Flyer + Archaeopter Fusilave [7 PL, 130pts]: Command Uplink Archaeopter Stratoraptor [9 PL, 180pts]: Chaff Launcher + Dedicated Transport + Skorpius Dunerider [5 PL, 95pts] ++ Total: [102 PL, 1,999pts, 5CP] ++
. Ranger Alpha: Galvanic Rifle
. 17x Skitarii Ranger: 17x Galvanic Rifle
. 2x Skitarii Ranger (Plasma caliver): 2x Plasma Caliver
. Ranger Alpha: Galvanic Rifle, Host of the Intermediary – Programmed Retreat
. 18x Skitarii Ranger: 18x Galvanic Rifle
. Skitarii Ranger (Plasma caliver): Plasma Caliver
. Ranger Alpha: Galvanic Rifle
. 18x Skitarii Ranger: 18x Galvanic Rifle
. Skitarii Ranger (Plasma caliver): Plasma Caliver
. Ironstrider Ballistarius: Twin Cognis Lascannon
. Ironstrider Ballistarius: Twin Cognis Lascannon
. Ranger Alpha: Galvanic Rifle
. 4x Skitarii Ranger: 4x Galvanic Rifle
. Infiltrator Princeps (Flechette/Taser)
. 4x Sicarian Infiltrator (Flechette/Taser): 4x Flechette Blaster, 4x Taser Goad
. Ruststalker Princeps (Blades)
. 6x Sicarian Ruststalker (Blades): 6x Transonic Blades
Archetype
Mars/Lucius
Why it’s Interesting in 9th
At this point you’ve seen this list plenty of times – Malik has been on an outstanding run in the last few months, and even here only teammate David running the same archetype was able to take a game off him. Congratulations on another excellent result.
The Rest of the Best
Ten more players finished on 5-1. They were:
- 5th – Konrad Bartkiewicz – Iron Hands Successors: Whirlwind/Heroes Successors with the standard array of pod Devastators, VanVets and Dreadnoughts plus a couple of extra tricks – running as Minotaurs to enable the use of Hekaton Aiakos as a second character Dreadnought, and using a Whirlwind Scorpius for max value from Iron Hands various vehicle-amplifying tricks.
- 6th – Michael Costello – Deathwatch: The latest iteration of Michael’s lethal melee Kill Team list that he won the last FactoruM GT with.
- 7th – Greg Chamberlain – Death Guard: Shooty Mortarion’s Anvil, with VolCons, PBCs and Deathshrouds plus a minimal Poxwalker screen.
- 8th – Chris Tutill – Thousand Sons: Cult of Duplicity with a Heldrake and the less common choice of some Tzaangor Enlightented. From walking past a few times, the latter seemed to performing surprisingly well just as bully charge and position holding units.
- 9th – Ben Allen – Harlequins: An entire army built from three datasheets – three Troupe Masters and nine Starweavers packed with fusion pistols. Also stunningly painted, with Ben deservedly winning both Best Army and Best Single Miniature.
- 10th – Jay Middlecote – Imperial Knights: House Krast with a Magaera, two tooled-up Crusaders and a four Warglaives, squeezing plenty of threat in overall.
- 11th – Jonathan Clarke – Adepta Sororitas: Argent Shroud/Bloody Rose with plenty of melta and plenty of melee killers, plus Ephrael Stern as a cheap killer.
- 12th – Richard Gwatkin – Death Guard: Blightlord Bomb and Mortarion provide a double dose of heavy hitters.
- 13th – Andrew Bourbon – Grey Knights: The full six Dreadknights going all out.
- 14th – Maxwell Koch – Adepta Sororitas: Pure Bloody Rose with lots of Zephyrim to fire at the enemy after gaining ObSec from a Dogmata, and a healthy number of Penitent Engines for some slightly more durable threats.
Frontline Gaming SoCal Open (supermajor)
All the lists for this event can be found in Best Coast Pairings. This event cut to a top 8, so placings for the first 8 players are based on that.
Logan Heath – Orks – 1st Place
The List
Army List - Click to Expand ++ Outrider Detachment -3CP (Orks 2021) [60 PL, 1,015pts, 9CP] ++ + Configuration + Clan Kultur: Freebooterz Detachment Command Cost [-3CP] + HQ + Deffkilla Wartrike [6 PL, 120pts]: 3. Junkboss (Speed Freeks), Warlord + Fast Attack + Megatrakk Scrapjets [5 PL, 90pts] Megatrakk Scrapjets [5 PL, 90pts] Megatrakk Scrapjets [5 PL, 90pts] Rukkatrukk Squigbuggies [7 PL, 115pts]: Nitro Squigs Rukkatrukk Squigbuggies [5 PL, 90pts] Rukkatrukk Squigbuggies [5 PL, 90pts] + Heavy Support + Mek Gunz [3 PL, 45pts] Mek Gunz [3 PL, 45pts] + Flyer + Dakkajet [8 PL, 120pts]: 2x Additional Supa Shoota Dakkajet [8 PL, 120pts]: 2x Additional Supa Shoota ++ Outrider Detachment -3CP (Orks 2021) [53 PL, 985pts, -3CP] ++ + Configuration + Clan Kultur: Freebooterz Detachment Command Cost [-3CP] + HQ + Big Mek in Mega Armour [6 PL, 115pts]: Da Krushin’ Armour, Kustom Force Field, Kustom Mega-Blasta + Fast Attack + Kustom Boosta Blastas [4 PL, 80pts] Shokkjump Dragstas [5 PL, 85pts] Shokkjump Dragstas [5 PL, 85pts] Warbikers [4 PL, 75pts] Warbikers [4 PL, 75pts] Warbikers [4 PL, 75pts] + Heavy Support + Mek Gunz [3 PL, 45pts] + Flyer + Dakkajet [8 PL, 120pts]: 2x Additional Supa Shoota Wazbom Blastajet [10 PL, 230pts]: 2x Tellyport Mega-Blastas, Blastajet Force Field, 2x Supa Shoota ++ Total: [113 PL, 2,000pts, 6CP] ++
. Megatrakk Scrapjet
. Megatrakk Scrapjet
. Megatrakk Scrapjet
. Rukkatrukk Squigbuggy
. Rukkatrukk Squigbuggy
. Rukkatrukk Squigbuggy
. Mek Gun: Kustom Mega Kannon
. Mek Gun: Kustom Mega Kannon
. Kustom Boosta Blastas
. Shokkjump Dragstas
. Shokkjump Dragstas
. Boss Nob: Choppa
. 2x Warbiker w/ Choppa: 2x Choppa, 4x Dakkagun
. Boss Nob: Choppa
. 2x Warbiker w/ Choppa: 2x Choppa, 4x Dakkagun
. Boss Nob: Choppa
. 2x Warbiker w/ Choppa: 2x Choppa, 4x Dakkagun
. Mek Gun: Kustom Mega Kannon
Archetype
Freebooterz
Why it’s Interesting in 9th
The curse of the one turn supermajor final makes its way to the US, this time at the hands of Logan’s Freebooterz largely evaporating Sean Nayden’s Venom Spam list over the course of his first shooting phase (even after Sean had had a turn to zoom forward and throw out a bit of firepower/disruption). Bluntly, that’s what this army does – Freebooterz does have counters (mostly Stratoraptors, which Logan dropped a game to in the swiss) but the firepower the army throws down with Speedwaaagh up is really only matched by Mars, and is just as difficult to avoid thanks to lots of it coming from planes or indirect fire, and almost all being on fast units. Because Ramshackle units can only be dealt with efficiently by a pretty narrow range of weaponry, a big swing turn from this army is often adequate to completely neutralise the opponent’s answers, at which point it’s pretty much game over.
Before I continue with the complaining it’s time for the positive bit. I do think Logan’s spin on this is particularly effective and well put together. One of the answers people have been bringing to buggies is fast units to tag them, as a cheap unit of Reavers or Shining Spears (as we’ve seen in some of the preceeding lists) reaching out and switching off three Squigbuggies or Scrapjets is a huge deal. By going wider within individual buggies, Logan avoids that risk (plus the chance of an occasional buggy loss to morale against Drukhari debuffs), and also builds in better answers to damage reduction in the form of a couple of Dragstas. Those combine with a tooled up Blastajet to give some reliable tools to quickly burst down a heavier target, which in turn lets the Warbikers provide more value picking up the contents. Finally, having both kinds of Force Field maximises alpha strike resilience, giving the list at least a sporting chance into its toughest matchups. All great choices that help to build against common answers, and smart stuff.
Back to the complaining. This army isn’t landing the win rates of the best AdMech lists mostly because the best AdMech lists very nearly hard counter it, but that doesn’t mean it’s healthy for the game – I walked past quite a few games involving similar lists at the weekend, and they were consistently extremely one-sided. I’m sympathetic to the idea that unlike some other busted builds, Orks actually do need a few buffs elsewhere if the buggies/planes get a big hit (mostly a small discount on Boyz and a bunch of the middling infantry) but something needs to be done about this list ASAP, because it creates non-games at just as high a rate as Mars Stratoraptors. Given what the armies have in common, doing something drastic about planes in general seems more and more appealing. Corrode: I will die on the hill of one Flyer per Battalion or Brigade, and no other slots for them anywhere.
With that done, let’s close on another positive bit – excessively powerful armies existing isn’t the fault of players, and choosing a strong build, improving its matchups with smart tech choices and winning a supermajor where the top eight was stacked with other builds that are just as brutal is a fantastic achievement. Congratulations to Logan.
Sean Nayden – Drukhari – 2nd ✪ Place
The List
Army List - Click to Expand Gametype: Matched Obsession: Cult of Strife: The Spectacle of Murder (Restricted) Raiding Forces – CP Refund + HQ [8 PL, 150pts, -1CP] + Lelith Hesperax [5 PL, 90pts]: Blood Dancer, Lelith’s Blades, Warlord Succubus [3 PL, 60pts, -1CP]: 1 – Adrenalight (Combat Drug), Dark Lotus Toxin, Precision Blows, Razorflails, Stratagem: Tolerated Ambition [-1CP] + Troops [7 PL, 130pts, -1CP] + Hekatrix Bloodbrides [4 PL, 70pts]: 1 – Adrenalight (Combat Drug) Wyches [3 PL, 60pts, -1CP]: 3 – Hypex (Combat Drug) ++ Patrol Detachment 0CP (Aeldari – Drukhari) [54 PL, 1,038pts, -3CP] ++ + Configuration + Obsession: Kabal of the Poisoned Tongue: The Serpent’s Kiss + Stratagems [-2CP] + Stratagem: Prizes from the Dark City [-1CP]: Additional Relics [-1CP] Stratagem: Prizes from the Dark City [-1CP]: Additional Relics [-1CP] + No Force Org Slot [5 PL, 68pts] + Court of the Archon [5 PL, 68pts] + HQ [13 PL, 235pts, -1CP] + Archon [5 PL, 90pts, -1CP]: Ancient Evil, Blast Pistol [5pts], Huskblade [5pts], Overlord, Stratagem: Tolerated Ambition [-1CP], The Animus Vitae Drazhar [8 PL, 145pts]: The Executioner’s Demiklaives + Troops [4 PL, 65pts] + Kabalite Trueborn [4 PL, 65pts] + Elites [8 PL, 160pts] + Incubi [4 PL, 80pts] Incubi [4 PL, 80pts] + Dedicated Transport [24 PL, 510pts] + Venom [4 PL, 85pts]: Bladevanes, Kabal, Splinter Cannon [10pts], Splinter Cannon [10pts] Venom [4 PL, 85pts]: Bladevanes, Kabal, Splinter Cannon [10pts], Splinter Cannon [10pts] Venom [4 PL, 85pts]: Bladevanes, Kabal, Splinter Cannon [10pts], Splinter Cannon [10pts] Venom [4 PL, 85pts]: Bladevanes, Kabal, Splinter Cannon [10pts], Splinter Cannon [10pts] Venom [4 PL, 85pts]: Bladevanes, Kabal, Splinter Cannon [10pts], Splinter Cannon [10pts] Venom [4 PL, 85pts]: Bladevanes, Kabal, Splinter Cannon [10pts], Splinter Cannon [10pts] ++ Patrol Detachment 0CP (Aeldari – Drukhari) [33 PL, 680pts] ++ + Configuration + Detachment Command Cost Obsession Raiding Forces – CP Refund + HQ [8 PL, 150pts] + Archon [5 PL, 90pts]: Blast Pistol [5pts], Huskblade [5pts], Overlord Succubus [3 PL, 60pts]: 3 – Hypex (Combat Drug), The Triptych Whip + Troops [10 PL, 195pts] + Kabalite Trueborn [4 PL, 65pts] <flayed skull> Wracks [3 PL, 65pts] Wracks [3 PL, 65pts] + Elites [7 PL, 155pts] + Incubi [4 PL, 80pts] Mandrakes [3 PL, 75pts] + Dedicated Transport [8 PL, 180pts] + Venom [4 PL, 90pts]: Bladevanes, Coven, Grisly Trophies [5pts], Splinter Cannon [10pts], Splinter Cannon [10pts] Venom [4 PL, 90pts]: Bladevanes, Coven, Grisly Trophies [5pts], Splinter Cannon [10pts], Splinter Cannon [10pts] ++ Total: [102 PL, 7CP, 1,998pts] ++
. Hekatrix [22pts]: Blast Pistol [5pts], Plasma Grenades, Power sword [5pts]
. 4x Hekatrix Bloodbride [48pts]: 4x Hekatarii Blade, 4x Plasma Grenades, 4x Splinter Pistol
. Hekatrix [20pts, -1CP]: Agoniser [5pts], Blast Pistol [5pts], Morvaines’s Agoniser, Plasma Grenades, Stratagem: Hekatrix of the Crucibael [-1CP]
. 4x Wych [40pts]: 4x Hekatarii Blade, 4x Plasma Grenades, 4x Splinter Pistol
. Sslyth [18pts]: Shardcarbine, Splinter Pistol, Sslyth battle-blade
. Sslyth [18pts]: Shardcarbine, Splinter Pistol, Sslyth battle-blade
. Ur-Ghul [16pts]: Ur-Ghul Talons
. Ur-Ghul [16pts]: Ur-Ghul Talons
. Splintered Genius (Poisoned Tongue) [1 PL, 15pts]: Splintered Genius [1 PL, 15pts]
. 3x Kabalite Trueborn [30pts]: 3x Splinter Rifle
. Kabalite Trueborn w/ Special Weapon [20pts]: Blaster [10pts]
. Trueborn Sybarite [15pts]: Blast Pistol [5pts]
. 4x Incubi [64pts]: 4x Klaive
. Klaivex [16pts]: Demiklaives
. 4x Incubi [64pts]: 4x Klaive
. Klaivex [16pts]: Demiklaives
. *Custom Coven*: Enhanced Sensory Organs, Master Torturers
. Splintered Genius (Flayed Skull) [1 PL, 15pts]: Splintered Genius [1 PL, 15pts]
. Agoniser & Archite Glaive: Agoniser, Archite Glaive<strife>
. 3x Kabalite Trueborn [30pts]: 3x Splinter Rifle
. Kabalite Trueborn w/ Special Weapon [20pts]: Blaster [10pts]
. Trueborn Sybarite [15pts]: Blast Pistol [5pts]
. Acothyst [23pts]: Electrocorrosive Whip [5pts], Liquifier Gun [10pts]
. Wrack w/ Special Weapon [18pts]: Liquifier Gun [10pts], Wrack Blade
. 3x Wracks [24pts]: 3x Wrack Blade
. Acothyst [23pts]: Electrocorrosive Whip [5pts], Liquifier Gun [10pts]
. Wrack w/ Special Weapon [18pts]: Liquifier Gun [10pts], Wrack Blade
. 3x Wracks [24pts]: 3x Wrack Blade
. 4x Incubi [64pts]: 4x Klaive
. Klaivex [16pts]: Demiklaives
. 4x Mandrake [60pts]: 4x Baleblast, 4x Glimmersteel Blade
. Nightfiend [15pts]: Baleblast, Glimmersteel Blade
Archetype
Venom Spam
Why it’s Interesting in 9th
Sean puts in another top finish with his shiny new Venom Spam build, which along with the resurgence of Talos seems to go to show that there’s almost no spin on Drukhari that doesn’t have real legs. Since its last outing Sean has made a few changes to the army, notably strapping the second splinter cannon to far more of the Venoms (definitely worth it as they’re extremely superior to the twin rifle into Grey Knights and Thousand Sons) and choosing to declare the third detachment as a custom Coven rather than Flayed Skull. The Enhanced Sensory Organs/Master Torturers combo keeps the Venoms effective against enemies in cover while letting the liquifier Wracks (also new) act as surprisingly effective all-rounders, reliably picking up some kills as they swoop in then taking a chunk out in melee with free wound re-rolls on the electrocorrosive whips. It’s very much tinkering around the edges, but it lets the army do a bit more with its Troop slots (as single blasters are going to be far less valuable without either flavour of Kabal re-roll).
The thrust of this army is still the same – be everywhere, overwhelm the opponents’ guns with targets, and pick the opponent apart. A cool trick Sean showed off late in the tournament is using the Animus Vitae to set up first turn charges – use Never Stationary to move the Venom carrying the Archon into range, and turn on Advance/Charge for the whole army. It wasn’t enough to shut down Logan’s shooting, but it’s a cool extra dimension the opponent has to account for, forcing them to be cautious and give the list time to take over. I suspect we’ll be seeing plenty more iterations on this list from Sean, and for this week congratulations on the second place finish.
Junior Aflleje – Drukhari – 3rd Place
The List
Army List - Click to Expand ++ Patrol Detachment 0CP (Aeldari – Drukhari) [13 PL, 250pts, -3CP] ++ + Configuration + Detachment Command Cost Obsession: Cult of Strife: The Spectacle of Murder (Restricted) Raiding Forces – CP Refund + Stratagems + Stratagem: Prizes from the Dark City [-1CP] + HQ + Succubus [4 PL, 75pts]: 1 – Adrenalight (Combat Drug), Dark Lotus Toxin, Precision Blows, Razorflails, Warlord Succubus [3 PL, 60pts, -1CP]: 1 – Adrenalight (Combat Drug), Competitive Edge, Stratagem: Tolerated Ambition, The Triptych Whip + Troops + Wyches [6 PL, 115pts, -1CP]: 2 – Grave Lotus (Combat Drug) ++ Patrol Detachment 0CP (Aeldari – Drukhari) [63 PL, 1,085pts, 10CP] ++ + Configuration + Obsession: Kabal of the Obsidian Rose: Flawless Workmanship Raiding Forces – CP Refund + Stratagems + Stratagem: Prizes from the Dark City [-1CP] + HQ + Archon [5 PL, 90pts, -1CP]: Ancient Evil, Blast Pistol, Huskblade, Overlord, Stratagem: Tolerated Ambition, The Djin Blade + Troops + Kabalite Trueborn [8 PL, 135pts] Kabalite Warriors [3 PL, 50pts] Kabalite Warriors [3 PL, 50pts] + Elites + Incubi [4 PL, 80pts] Incubi [4 PL, 80pts] + Dedicated Transport + Raider [6 PL, 100pts]: Dark Lance, Grisly Trophies, Kabal Raider [6 PL, 100pts]: Dark Lance, Grisly Trophies, Kabal Raider [6 PL, 100pts]: Dark Lance, Grisly Trophies, Kabal Raider [6 PL, 100pts]: Dark Lance, Grisly Trophies, Kabal Raider [6 PL, 100pts]: Dark Lance, Grisly Trophies, Kabal Raider [6 PL, 100pts]: Dark Lance, Grisly Trophies, Kabal ++ Patrol Detachment 0CP (Aeldari – Drukhari) [32 PL, 665pts] ++ + Configuration + Detachment Command Cost Obsession: Cult of the Cursed Blade: Only The Strong Will Survive Raiding Forces – CP Refund + HQ + Drazhar [8 PL, 145pts] + Troops + Wyches [3 PL, 50pts]: 3 – Hypex (Combat Drug) Wyches [3 PL, 50pts]: 3 – Hypex (Combat Drug) + Elites + Incubi [4 PL, 80pts] + Fast Attack + Hellions [7 PL, 170pts]: 4 – Painbringer (Combat Drug) Hellions [7 PL, 170pts]: 4 – Painbringer (Combat Drug) ++ Total: [108 PL, 2,000pts, 7CP] ++
. Show Stealer (Strife): Show Stealer
. Agoniser & Archite Glaive
. Hekatrix: Agoniser, Morvaines’s Agoniser, Splinter Pistol, Stratagem: Hekatrix of the Crucibael
. 8x Wych: 8x Hekatarii Blade, 8x Plasma Grenades, 8x Splinter Pistol
. Wych w/ Shardnet and Impaler: Shardnet and Impaler
. Splintered Genius (Obsidian Rose): Splintered Genius
. 6x Kabalite Trueborn: 6x Splinter Rifle
. Kabalite Trueborn w/ Heavy Weapon: Dark Lance
. Kabalite Trueborn w/ Special Weapon: Blaster
. Kabalite Trueborn w/ Special Weapon: Blaster
. Trueborn Sybarite: Splinter Rifle
. 3x Kabalite Warrior: 3x Splinter Rifle
. Kabalite Warrior w/ Special Weapon: Blaster
. Sybarite: Splinter Pistol
. 3x Kabalite Warrior: 3x Splinter Rifle
. Kabalite Warrior w/ Special Weapon: Blaster
. Sybarite: Splinter Pistol
. 4x Incubi: 4x Klaive
. Klaivex: Klaive
. 4x Incubi: 4x Klaive
. Klaivex: Klaive
. Hekatrix: Hekatarii Blade, Splinter Pistol
. 4x Wych: 4x Hekatarii Blade, 4x Plasma Grenades, 4x Splinter Pistol
. Hekatrix: Hekatarii Blade, Splinter Pistol
. 4x Wych: 4x Hekatarii Blade, 4x Plasma Grenades, 4x Splinter Pistol
. 4x Incubi: 4x Klaive
. Klaivex: Klaive
. Helliarch: Hellglaive
. 9x Hellion: 9x Hellglaive, 9x Splinter Pods
. Helliarch: Hellglaive
. 9x Hellion: 9x Hellglaive, 9x Splinter Pods
Archetype
Drukhari Goodstuff
Why it’s Interesting in 9th
An incredibly classic Drukhari build here, largely just playing all their hits to a third place finish. The standout tools are the large Hellion units that were likely particularly good with player placed terrain, as they want somewhere mid-board to “stage”, and the small Hypex Wych units that are especially useful for harrassment and objective play. Mostly though, this is Drukhari doing Drukhari things – well done to Junior for taking that to third place.
Quinton Johnson – Drukhari – 4th Place
The List
Army List - Click to Expand ++ Patrol Detachment 0CP (Aeldari – Drukhari) [61 PL, 974pts, 10CP] ++ + Configuration + Gametype: Matched 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, 84pts] + HQ + Archon [5 PL, 90pts, -1CP]: Ancient Evil, Blast Pistol, Huskblade, Overlord, Stratagem: Tolerated Ambition, The Djin Blade + Troops + Kabalite Trueborn [8 PL, 140pts] + Elites + Incubi [4 PL, 80pts] Incubi [4 PL, 80pts] + Dedicated Transport + Raider [6 PL, 100pts]: Dark Lance, Grisly Trophies, Kabal Raider [6 PL, 100pts]: Dark Lance, Grisly Trophies, Kabal Raider [6 PL, 100pts]: Dark Lance, Kabal, Phantasm Grenade Launcher Raider [6 PL, 100pts]: Dark Lance, Kabal, Phantasm Grenade Launcher Raider [6 PL, 100pts]: Dark Lance, Kabal, Phantasm Grenade Launcher ++ Patrol Detachment 0CP (Aeldari – Drukhari) [27 PL, 505pts, -2CP] ++ + Configuration + Obsession: Cult of Strife: The Spectacle of Murder (Restricted) Raiding Forces – CP Refund + Stratagems + Stratagem: Prizes from the Dark City [-1CP] + HQ + Succubus [3 PL, 60pts]: 3 – Hypex (Combat Drug), Competitive Edge, The Triptych Whip, Warlord Succubus [4 PL, 75pts, -1CP]: 4 – Painbringer (Combat Drug), Dark Lotus Toxin, Precision Blows, Razorflails, Stratagem: Tolerated Ambition + Troops + Wyches [6 PL, 100pts]: 2 – Grave Lotus (Combat Drug) Wyches [3 PL, 50pts]: 2 – Grave Lotus (Combat Drug) Wyches [3 PL, 50pts]: 2 – Grave Lotus (Combat Drug) + Fast Attack + Hellions [4 PL, 85pts]: *Random x 2* (Combat Drug) Hellions [4 PL, 85pts]: *Random x 2* (Combat Drug) ++ Patrol Detachment 0CP (Aeldari – Drukhari) [27 PL, 520pts] ++ + Configuration + Detachment Command Cost Obsession Raiding Forces – CP Refund + HQ + Drazhar [8 PL, 145pts] + Troops + Wracks [3 PL, 40pts] + Elites + Incubi [4 PL, 80pts] + Heavy Support + Cronos [12 PL, 255pts] ++ Total: [115 PL, 1,999pts, 8CP] ++
. Sslyth
. Sslyth
. Ur-Ghul
. Ur-Ghul
. Ur-Ghul
. Splintered Genius (Black Heart): Splintered Genius
. 6x Kabalite Trueborn: 6x Splinter Rifle
. Kabalite Trueborn w/ Heavy Weapon: Dark Lance
. Kabalite Trueborn w/ Special Weapon: Blaster
. Kabalite Trueborn w/ Special Weapon: Blaster
. Trueborn Sybarite: Blast Pistol
. 4x Incubi: 4x Klaive
. Klaivex: Demiklaives
. 4x Incubi: 4x Klaive
. Klaivex: Demiklaives
. Agoniser & Archite Glaive
. Show Stealer (Strife): Show Stealer
. Hekatrix: Hekatarii Blade, Splinter Pistol
. 9x Wych: 9x Hekatarii Blade, 9x Plasma Grenades, 9x Splinter Pistol
. Hekatrix: Hekatarii Blade, Splinter Pistol
. 4x Wych: 4x Hekatarii Blade, 4x Plasma Grenades, 4x Splinter Pistol
. Hekatrix: Hekatarii Blade, Splinter Pistol
. 4x Wych: 4x Hekatarii Blade, 4x Plasma Grenades, 4x Splinter Pistol
. Helliarch: Hellglaive
. 4x Hellion: 4x Hellglaive, 4x Splinter Pods
. Helliarch: Hellglaive
. 4x Hellion: 4x Hellglaive, 4x Splinter Pods
. *Custom Coven*: Dark Technomancers (All-Consuming)
. Acothyst: Wrack Blade
. 4x Wracks: 4x Wrack Blade
. 4x Incubi: 4x Klaive
. Klaivex: Klaive
. Cronos: Spirit Probe, Spirit Vortex
. Cronos: Spirit Probe, Spirit Vortex
. Cronos: Spirit Probe, Spirit Vortex
Archetype
Drukhari Goodstuff/Cronos
Why it’s Interesting in 9th
More business as usual here – all the spiciest Drukhari toys with a trio of Cronos to provide some additional heft at a crucial position. It’s well proven, effective stuff, and a strong showing with it from Quinton (with a particularly impressive win against triple Stratoraptors in the quarter-finals).
The Rest of the Best
There were four more players in the top eight, and another eleven on 5-1 after the swiss. They were:
- 5th – Matthew Geyer – Adeptus Mechanicus: Mars Veteran Cohort with three Stratoraptors and a Fusilave.
- 6th – Matt Estrada – Adeptus Mechanicus: Mars Veteran Cohort with three Stratoraptors and lots of Serberys Raiders.
- 7th – Joel Wilson – Dark Angels: Whoops all Deathwing – three massive, heavily armed Terminator bricks, a big unit of Bladeguard and a bunch of buff characters.
- 8th – Scott LaFountain – Chaos Daemons: See lists of the week.
- 9th – Brian Pullen – Adeptus Mechanicus: Sicarian spam in a Mars Veteran Cohort (but pretty different from the conventional version of that Archetype).
- 10th – Adrian Phillips – Orks: Freebooterz with planes, buggies and utility infantry, plus a nasty Squigboss.
- 11th – Matthew Green – Grey Knights: Dreadknights (as Prescient Brethren) and Interceptors (as Rapiers) with a big brick of Purifiers tagging along.
- 12th – Adam Baker – Imperial Knights: House Raven with Magaeras, Warglaives and a Castellan, with the latter being able to tool for damage thanks to having access to Kolossi Eternal.
- 13th – Colin McDade – Orks: Four-plane Freebooterz (not surprising since Colin was an early adopter).
- 14th – Arthur Tu – Emperor’s Children: A gigantic brick of Noise Marines surrounded by bodies – lots of Cultists (including one max unit for Tide of Traitors), lots of Chaos Spawn and plenty of Rhinos. A very impressive finish for pure CSM considering it has no Forge World units.
- 15th – Jake Nelson – Adeptus Mechancius: Lucius/Mars plane spam.
- 16th – Brandon Grant – Adepta Sororitas: Martyred Lady board control similar to what Stephen Box was running at Cadian Catastrophe.
- 17th – Evan Stump – Deathwatch: Classic Deathwatch stuff, using a bunch of Kill Teams with VanVet/Biker halves and lots of Dreadnoughts around buff tools.
- 18th – Tyler Bortel – Hive Mind: Jormundgar Hierodules (for hefty saves), Kronos Hive Guard and a 4AE GSC contingent to provide extra CP via a Nexos and interfere with attempts to gank any key units with A Plan Generations in the Making.
Hanseatic Alliance Open
All the lists for this event can be found here.
Fritz Peters – Grey Knights – 1st Place
The List
Army List - Click to Expand ++ Battalion Detachment 0CP (Imperium – Grey Knights) [82 PL, 1,650pts, 11CP] ++ + Configuration + Brotherhood: Swordbearers Detachment Command Cost + Stratagems + Armoury of Titan [-1CP]: 1 Additional Relic + HQ + Brotherhood Techmarine [6 PL, 110pts]: 1: Gate of Infinity, 3: Unyielding Anvil, Aetheric Conduit, Boltgun, Foretelling of Locus, Omnissian Power Axe, Warlord Grand Master in Nemesis Dreadknight [11 PL, 235pts]: 2: Empyric Amplification, 3: Sanctuary, A Noble Death, Dreadfist, Dreadknight teleporter, Gatling Psilencer, Heavy Psycannon, Nemesis Greatsword, Sigil of Exigence + Troops + Strike Squad [6 PL, 110pts] Strike Squad [12 PL, 220pts] Strike Squad [6 PL, 110pts] + Heavy Support + Nemesis Dreadknight [8 PL, 175pts]: Dreadfist, Gatling Psilencer, Heavy Psycannon, Nemesis Greatsword Nemesis Dreadknight [8 PL, 175pts]: Dreadfist, Gatling Psilencer, Heavy Psycannon, Nemesis Greatsword Nemesis Dreadknight [8 PL, 175pts]: Dreadfist, Gatling Psilencer, Heavy Psycannon, Nemesis Greatsword + Flyer + Stormraven Gunship [17 PL, 340pts] ++ Patrol Detachment -2CP (Imperium – Grey Knights) [17 PL, 345pts, -3CP] ++ + Configuration + Brotherhood: Prescient Brethren Detachment Command Cost [-2CP] + HQ + Grand Master in Nemesis Dreadknight [11 PL, 235pts, -1CP]: 5: Warp Shaping, 6: Ghostly Bonds, Divination, Dreadfist, Dreadknight teleporter, Gatling Psilencer, Heavy Psycannon, Nemesis Greatsword, Servant of the Throne, Shield of Humanity + Troops + Strike Squad [6 PL, 110pts] ++ Total: [99 PL, 8CP, 1,995pts] ++
. Servo Arms
. 4x Grey Knight (Sword): 4x Nemesis Force Sword, 4x Storm Bolter
. Grey Knight Justicar
. . Nemesis Force Sword
. 3x Grey Knight (Halberd): 3x Nemesis Force Halberd, 3x Storm Bolter
. 5x Grey Knight (Sword): 5x Nemesis Force Sword, 5x Storm Bolter
. Grey Knight (Warding Stave)
. Grey Knight Justicar
. . Nemesis Force Sword
. 4x Grey Knight (Sword): 4x Nemesis Force Sword, 4x Storm Bolter
. Grey Knight Justicar
. . Nemesis Force Sword
. Twin Heavy Plasma Cannon
. Twin multi-melta: Twin multi-melta
. Two Hurricane Bolters: 2x Hurricane bolter
. 4x Grey Knight (Sword): 4x Nemesis Force Sword, 4x Storm Bolter
. Grey Knight Justicar
. . Nemesis Force Sword
The Standout Features
- Stormraven!
Why it’s Interesting in 9th
Hell yeah! I love seeing this out in the wild, as I reckoned that the Stormraven was a possible dark horse out of the Grey Knights book and that appears to have been accurate. Between Sanctuary to buff its defences (and crucially, you can do that after bringing it on from Strategic Reserves if the opponent’s shooting looks too dire) and Swordbearer buffs/Psybolt Ammunition to turn it into a truly monstrous killing machine, Grey Knights legitimately have some of the best support for this winged behemoth out of all Marines, and some of the best models to pack into it to boot. A full-sized Strike squad with a warding stave for extra defences is far nastier than most Marine units, and their presence creates a lot of extra pressure to take out the flier fast.
There definitely are matchups where reserving the Raven to prevent that is going to be required, but luckily there’s plenty of tasty crunch to go on the board in the form of the Dreadknights, who have a 4+ invulnerable save out of the gate and can get plenty of damage dealing going in their own right. It is worth mentioning that if the situation arises and the flier is already in reserve this army can kind of do a null deploy with Foretelling of Locus – leave the GMDKs and remaining infantry behind Obscuring terrrain, and bring everything on in turn 2. For many armies that would cede too much, but this list will do such spectacular damage when it rocks up that it’s a bit more palatable, and the two on-board Dreadknights are very resilient to alpha strikes.
There are downsides to swapping in the Stormraven for Interceptors of course. This army is way less good at Purifying Ritual than most GK lists – it still can, but it needs more careful planning. In addition, once committed there’s a lot less mobility here than the average. The flip side, of course, is that there are going to be far fewer enemy units to deal with once the guns have done their job, and if it’s just picking up stragglers that’s needed then the Stormraven can easily cover it.
In the UK and US Grey Knights have taken a bit of a breather after the excitement of last week, but they’re incredibly dominant in Europe and seeing new tech like this out and about is a strong indication that they aren’t going anywhere. Great stuff from Fritz.
Dennis Rau – Drukhari – 2nd ✪ Place
The List
Army List - Click to Expand ++ Patrol Detachment 0CP (Aeldari – Drukhari) [56 PL, 10CP, 940pts] ++ + Configuration [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] + HQ [5 PL, -1CP, 85pts] + Archon [5 PL, -1CP, 85pts]: Ancient Evil, As Detachment (Kabal), Huskblade [5pts], Overlord, Splinter Pistol, Stratagem: Tolerated Ambition [-1CP], The Djin Blade + Troops [14 PL, 235pts] + Kabalite Trueborn [8 PL, 135pts]: As Detachment (Kabal) Kabalite Warriors [3 PL, 50pts]: As Detachment (Kabal) Kabalite Warriors [3 PL, 50pts]: As Detachment (Kabal) + Elites [8 PL, 160pts] + Incubi [4 PL, 80pts] Incubi [4 PL, 80pts] + Fast Attack [5 PL, 80pts] + Scourges [5 PL, 80pts] + Dedicated Transport [24 PL, 380pts] + Raider [6 PL, 95pts]: Bladevanes, Dark Lance, Kabal of the Black Heart Raider [6 PL, 95pts]: Bladevanes, Dark Lance, Kabal of the Black Heart Raider [6 PL, 95pts]: Bladevanes, Dark Lance, Kabal of the Black Heart Raider [6 PL, 95pts]: Bladevanes, Dark Lance, Kabal of the Black Heart ++ Patrol Detachment 0CP (Aeldari – Drukhari) [21 PL, -1CP, 430pts] ++ + Configuration + Detachment Command Cost Obsession: Cult of Strife: The Spectacle of Murder Raiding Forces – CP Refund + HQ [4 PL, -1CP, 75pts] + Succubus [4 PL, -1CP, 75pts]: 1 – Adrenalight (Combat Drug), As Detachment (Wych Cult), Precision Blows, Stratagem: Tolerated Ambition [-1CP], The Triptych Whip + Troops [6 PL, 110pts] + Wyches [6 PL, 110pts]: 2 – Grave Lotus (Combat Drug), As Detachment (Wych Cult) + Elites [3 PL, 75pts] + Mandrakes [3 PL, 75pts] + Fast Attack [8 PL, 170pts] + Hellions [4 PL, 85pts]: 1 – Adrenalight (Combat Drug), As Detachment (Wych Cult) Hellions [4 PL, 85pts]: 1 – Adrenalight (Combat Drug), As Detachment (Wych Cult) ++ Patrol Detachment 0CP (Aeldari – Drukhari) [35 PL, 630pts] ++ + Configuration + Detachment Command Cost Obsession + HQ [8 PL, 145pts] + Drazhar [8 PL, 145pts]: Hatred Eternal, The Executioner’s Demiklaives, Warlord + Troops [9 PL, 120pts] + Wracks [3 PL, 40pts]: As Detachment (Coven) Wracks [3 PL, 40pts]: As Detachment (Coven) Wracks [3 PL, 40pts]: As Detachment (Coven) + Fast Attack [6 PL, 120pts] + Reavers [3 PL, 60pts]: 4 – Painbringer (Combat Drug), Wych Cult of Strife Reavers [3 PL, 60pts]: 4 – Painbringer (Combat Drug), Wych Cult of Strife + Heavy Support [12 PL, 245pts] + Cronos [12 PL, 245pts]: As Detachment (Coven) ++ Total: [112 PL, 9CP, 2,000pts] ++
. Splintered Genius (Black Heart) [1 PL, 15pts]: Splintered Genius [1 PL, 15pts]
. 6x Kabalite Trueborn [60pts]: 6x Splinter Rifle
. Kabalite Trueborn w/ Heavy Weapon [25pts]: Dark Lance [15pts]
. Kabalite Trueborn w/ Special Weapon [20pts]: Blaster [10pts]
. Kabalite Trueborn w/ Special Weapon [20pts]: Blaster [10pts]
. Trueborn Sybarite [10pts]: Splinter Rifle
. 3x Kabalite Warrior [24pts]: 3x Splinter Rifle
. Kabalite Warrior w/ Special Weapon [18pts]: Blaster [10pts]
. Sybarite [8pts]: Splinter Rifle
. 3x Kabalite Warrior [24pts]: 3x Splinter Rifle
. Kabalite Warrior w/ Special Weapon [18pts]: Blaster [10pts]
. Sybarite [8pts]: Splinter Rifle
. 4x Incubi [64pts]: 4x Klaive
. Klaivex [16pts]: Demiklaives
. 4x Incubi [64pts]: 4x Klaive
. Klaivex [16pts]: Demiklaives
. Scourge with Special / Heavy weapon [17pts]: Plasma Grenades, Shredder [5pts]
. Scourge with Special / Heavy weapon [17pts]: Plasma Grenades, Shredder [5pts]
. Scourge with Special / Heavy weapon [17pts]: Plasma Grenades, Shredder [5pts]
. Scourge with Special / Heavy weapon [17pts]: Plasma Grenades, Shredder [5pts]
. Solarite [12pts]: Plasma Grenades, Shardcarbine
. Agoniser & Archite Glaive: Agoniser, Archite Glaive
. Show Stealer (Strife) [1 PL, 15pts]: Show Stealer [1 PL, 15pts]
. Hekatrix [10pts]: Hekatarii Blade, Plasma Grenades, Splinter Pistol
. 8x Wych [80pts]: 8x Hekatarii Blade, 8x Plasma Grenades, 8x Splinter Pistol
. Wych w/ Shardnet and Impaler [20pts]: Plasma Grenades, Shardnet and Impaler [10pts]
. 4x Mandrake [60pts]: 4x Baleblast, 4x Glimmersteel Blade
. Nightfiend [15pts]: Baleblast, Glimmersteel Blade
. Helliarch [17pts]: Hellglaive, Splinter Pods
. 4x Hellion [68pts]: 4x Hellglaive, 4x Splinter Pods
. Helliarch [17pts]: Hellglaive, Splinter Pods
. 4x Hellion [68pts]: 4x Hellglaive, 4x Splinter Pods
. *Custom Coven*: Dark Technomancers (All-Consuming)
. Acothyst [8pts]: Wrack Blade
. 4x Wracks [32pts]: 4x Wrack Blade
. Acothyst [8pts]: Wrack Blade
. 4x Wracks [32pts]: 4x Wrack Blade
. Acothyst [8pts]: Wrack Blade
. 4x Wracks [32pts]: 4x Wrack Blade
. Arena Champion [20pts]: Bladevanes, Splinter Pistol, Splinter Rifle
. 2x Reaver [40pts]: 2x Bladevanes, 2x Splinter Pistol, 2x Splinter Rifle
. Arena Champion [20pts]: Bladevanes, Splinter Pistol, Splinter Rifle
. 2x Reaver [40pts]: 2x Bladevanes, 2x Splinter Pistol, 2x Splinter Rifle
. Cronos [4 PL, 85pts]: Spirit Probe [5pts], Spirit Syphon, Spirit Vortex [10pts], Spirit-Leech Tentacles
. Cronos [4 PL, 80pts]: Spirit Syphon, Spirit Vortex [10pts], Spirit-Leech Tentacles
. Cronos [4 PL, 80pts]: Spirit Syphon, Spirit Vortex [10pts], Spirit-Leech Tentacles
Archetype
Drukhari Goodstuff/Cronos
Why it’s Interesting in 9th
Another podium finish for the Drukhari tally, and nothing too surprising tech wise here – just loads of great units well piloted. Nice work from Dennis.
Manuel Wieczorek – Adeptus Mechanicus – 3rd Place
Credit: Pendulin
The List
Army List - Click to Expand ++ Battalion Detachment 0CP (Imperium – Adeptus Mechanicus) [60 PL, 9CP, 1,153pts] ++ Stratagem: Archeotech Specialist [-1CP]: Archeotech Specialist + HQ + Skitarii Marshal [3 PL, 45pts]: Relic: Exemplar’s Eternity, Warlord, Warlord Trait (Codex 5): Firepoint Telemetry Cache Tech-Priest Manipulus [6 PL, 105pts]: Logi, Magnarail lance, Mechanicus Locum, Relic (Lucius): The Solar Flare, Warlord Trait (Lucius): Luminescent Blessings + Troops + Skitarii Rangers [8 PL, 170pts]: Enhanced Data-Tether, Omnispex Skitarii Rangers [8 PL, 149pts]: Omnispex Skitarii Rangers [8 PL, 141pts]: Omnispex Skitarii Vanguards [8 PL, 170pts]: Enhanced Data-Tether, Omnispex + Elites + Servitors [2 PL, 28pts]: 4x Servo-arm + Fast Attack + Serberys Raiders [4 PL, 85pts]: Enhanced Data-Tether, Serberys Raider Alpha Serberys Raiders [4 PL, 80pts]: Serberys Raider Alpha + Flyer + Archaeopter Stratoraptor [9 PL, 180pts]: Chaff Launcher ++ Patrol Detachment -2CP (Imperium – Adeptus Mechanicus) [45 PL, -3CP, 847pts] ++ Forge World Choice: Forge World: Mars Stratagem: Artefactotum [-1CP]: Artefactotum + HQ + Tech-Priest Enginseer [3 PL, 55pts] + Troops + Skitarii Vanguards [4 PL, 90pts] Skitarii Vanguards [4 PL, 90pts] + Elites + Sicarian Infiltrators [8 PL, 102pts] + Fast Attack + Ironstrider Ballistarii [4 PL, 75pts] Ironstrider Ballistarii [4 PL, 75pts] + Flyer + Archaeopter Stratoraptor [9 PL, 180pts]: Chaff Launcher Archaeopter Stratoraptor [9 PL, 180pts]: Chaff Launcher
Forge World Choice: Forge World: Lucius
Stratagem: Host of the Intermediary [-1CP]: Host of the Intermediary
Stratagem: Mechanicus Locum [-1CP]: Mechanicus Locum
. Ranger Alpha: Galvanic Rifle
. 19x Skitarii Ranger: 19x Galvanic Rifle
. Ranger Alpha: Galvanic Rifle, Host of the Intermediary, Warlord Trait (Codex 1): Multitasking Cortex
. 17x Skitarii Ranger: 17x Galvanic Rifle
. Ranger Alpha: Galvanic Rifle
. 16x Skitarii Ranger: 16x Galvanic Rifle
. 19x Skitarii Vanguard: 19x Radium Carbine
. Vanguard Alpha: Radium Carbine
. 4x Serberys Raider: 4x Cavalry Sabre, 4x Clawed Limbs, 4x Galvanic Carbine
. 4x Serberys Raider: 4x Cavalry Sabre, 4x Clawed Limbs, 4x Galvanic Carbine
Detachment Command Cost [-2CP]
. 8x Skitarii Vanguard: 8x Radium Carbine
. Skitarii Vanguard (Plasma Caliver): Plasma Caliver
. Vanguard Alpha: Radium Carbine
. 8x Skitarii Vanguard: 8x Radium Carbine
. Skitarii Vanguard (Plasma Caliver): Plasma Caliver
. Vanguard Alpha: Radium Carbine
. Infiltrator Princeps (Flechette/Taser): Artefactotum, Relic: Temporcopia
. 5x Sicarian Infiltrator (Flechette/Taser): 5x Flechette Blaster, 5x Taser Goad
. Ironstrider Ballistarius: Twin Cognis Lascannon
. Ironstrider Ballistarius: Twin Cognis Lascannon
Archetype
Mars/Lucius
Why it’s Interesting in 9th
Mars/Lucius with lots of Stratoraptors. You know how this works. There is a cute bit of new tech on show mind, mid-sized Skitarii Vanguard units in Mars as a very cheap way to get additional Wrath delivery mechanisms onto the table while also providing ObSec. Nice extra spice from Manuel.
Stefan Harle – Adeptus Mechanicus – 4th Place
The List
Army List - Click to Expand ++ Battalion Detachment 0CP (Imperium – Adeptus Mechanicus) [64 PL, 9CP, 1,280pts] ++ + Configuration + Forge World Choice: Forge World: Stygies VIII + Stratagems + Stratagem: Archeotech Specialist [-1CP]: Archeotech Specialist Stratagem: Host of the Intermediary [-1CP]: Host of the Intermediary Stratagem: Mechanicus Locum [-1CP]: Mechanicus Locum + HQ + Skitarii Marshal [3 PL, 45pts]: Control Stave, Radium Serpenta, Relic: Exemplar’s Eternity, WARLORD, Warlord Trait (Codex 5): Firepoint Telemetry Cache Tech-Priest Manipulus [6 PL, 105pts]: Logi, Magnarail lance, Manipulus Mechadendrites, Omnissian Staff, Archeotech Specialist, Relic: Raiment of the Technomartyr Tech-Priest Manipulus [5 PL, 100pts]: Artisans, Manipulus Mechadendrites, Mechanicus Locum, Omnissian Staff, Transonic cannon, Warlord Trait (Stygies VIII): Veiled Hunter + Troops + Skitarii Rangers [8 PL, 170pts]: Enhanced Data-Tether, Omnispex Skitarii Rangers [8 PL, 170pts]: Enhanced Data-Tether, Omnispex Skitarii Vanguards [8 PL, 170pts]: Enhanced Data-Tether, Omnispex Skitarii Vanguards [2 PL, 40pts] Skitarii Vanguards [4 PL, 64pts] + Elites + Sicarian Infiltrators [4 PL, 85pts] Sicarian Ruststalkers [4 PL, 85pts] + Fast Attack + Serberys Raiders [2 PL, 48pts] Serberys Raiders [2 PL, 53pts]: Enhanced Data-Tether + Heavy Support + Skorpius Disintegrator [8 PL, 145pts]: Belleros Energy Cannon, 3x Cognis Heavy Stubber, Disruptor Missile Launcher ++ Outrider Detachment -3CP (Imperium – Adeptus Mechanicus) [39 PL, -3CP, 720pts] ++ + Configuration + Detachment Command Cost [-3CP] Forge World Choice: Forge World: Mars + HQ + Tech-Priest Enginseer [3 PL, 55pts]: Mechanicus Pistol, Omnissian Axe, Servo-arm + Fast Attack + Ironstrider Ballistarii [8 PL, 150pts] Ironstrider Ballistarii [8 PL, 150pts] Ironstrider Ballistarii [4 PL, 75pts] + Heavy Support + Skorpius Disintegrator [8 PL, 145pts]: Belleros Energy Cannon, 3x Cognis Heavy Stubber, Disruptor Missile Launcher Skorpius Disintegrator [8 PL, 145pts]: Belleros Energy Cannon, 3x Cognis Heavy Stubber, Disruptor Missile Launcher ++ Total: [103 PL, 6CP, 2,000pts] ++
. Ranger Alpha: Galvanic Rifle, Host of the Intermediary, Warlord Trait (Codex 3): Programmed Retreat
. 19x Skitarii Ranger: 19x Galvanic Rifle
. Ranger Alpha: Galvanic Rifle
. 19x Skitarii Ranger: 19x Galvanic Rifle
. 19x Skitarii Vanguard: 19x Radium Carbine
. Vanguard Alpha: Radium Carbine
. 4x Skitarii Vanguard: 4x Radium Carbine
. Vanguard Alpha: Radium Carbine
. 7x Skitarii Vanguard: 7x Radium Carbine
. Vanguard Alpha: Radium Carbine
. Infiltrator Princeps (Flechette/Taser): Flechette Blaster, Taser Goad
. 4x Sicarian Infiltrator (Flechette/Taser): 4x Flechette Blaster, 4x Taser Goad
. Ruststalker Princeps (Blades): Chordclaw, Transonic Blades
. 4x Sicarian Ruststalker (Blades): 4x Transonic Blades
. 2x Serberys Raider: 2x Cavalry Sabre, 2x Clawed Limbs, 2x Galvanic Carbine
. Serberys Raider Alpha: Archeo-revolver, Cavalry Sabre, Clawed Limbs, Galvanic Carbine
. 2x Serberys Raider: 2x Cavalry Sabre, 2x Clawed Limbs, 2x Galvanic Carbine
. Serberys Raider Alpha: Archeo-revolver, Cavalry Sabre, Clawed Limbs, Galvanic Carbine
. Ironstrider Ballistarius: Twin Cognis Lascannon
. Ironstrider Ballistarius: Twin Cognis Lascannon
. Ironstrider Ballistarius: Twin Cognis Lascannon
. Ironstrider Ballistarius: Twin Cognis Lascannon
. Ironstrider Ballistarius: Twin Cognis Lascannon
The Standout Features
- Stygies sub in for Lucius for durable infantry.
- No planes to minimise target profile.
Why it’s Interesting in 9th
An important reminder that while the Stratoraptor is probably the best unit in the game right now, AdMech have plenty of things they can do effectively without it. This list leans heavily on the sheer quality of Skitarii and how cheaply you can reach a critical mass of anti-tank using Ironstriders in Mars. Running as Stygies gives the Skitarii boosted defences that still work against weapons like the volkite culverin, and also allows the army to put two units mid-board out the gate with Clandestine Infiltration if the matchup calls for it, presumably following up with an immediate power turn of both Galvanic Volley Fire and Enriched Rounds. Veiled Hunter can also be used to move a third unit from safety to the cusp of the deployment zone, or stash units into Strategic Reserves if there are Dakkajets about.
Lots of flexibility in that half of the army, raw power in Mars. Skorpii are still great with Canticles and a re-roll added (especially with an Enginseer Awakening both thanks to Tech Adept) and Ironstriders are, well, Ironstriders. They shoot stuff. Pew Pew. While I do still (obviously) think that Stratoraptor builds are the best, not having them does actually mean the army can meaningfully hide too, so some enemy lists built to counter AdMech are going to have a rough time of it. In particular, the combination of being able to carpet the mid-board with Skitarii and no planes mean that Drop Pod devastator plans look way less effective into this than they would normally.
Clever stuff overall, especially as both Lucius horde and Stratoraptors have had more of a continuous presence in the European metagame than the US, so more people will be gunning for them. A well-deserved fourth place for Stefan.
The Rest of the Best
Ten more players finished up on 5-1 records. They were:
- 5th ✪ – Sebastian Maack – Grey Knights: Dreadknights and Interceptors in Blades of Victory/Swordbearers flavour.
- 6th – Wolfgang Stocker – Grey Knights: Dreadknights and Interceptors in Rapiers/Swordbearers flavour.
- 7th – Wesselin Georgiev – Space Wolves Successors: Dreadnoughts/Wolf Guard with extra Cyberwolf utility.
- 8th – Kalvin Kirchbaumer – Adepta Sororitas: Ebon Chalice/Argent Shroud, with some unusual tech in the form of Arco-flagellants in Rhinos to sweep hordes.
- 9th – Thorben Damrau – Drukhari: A unique coven-focused build running a massive horde of Prophets Wracks, plus some Dark Creed transports to spread around leadership debuffs. A handful of Kabalite toys like Trueborn and some Reapers round things out.
- 10th – Adrian Willruth – Orks: Freebooterz with a few Deathskull utility infantry in tow.
- 11th – Matthias Bellmann – Adepta Sororitas: Bloody Rose/Ebon Chalicewith a Battle Sanctum.
- 12th ✪ – Frederik Otto – Orks: Vehicle-heavy Blood Axe/Deathskull combo, making use of the fancy new and improved Kannonwagon for big damage.
- 13th – Damian Legan – Death Guard: Shooty Mortarion’s Anvil.
- 14th – Michael Gemmeke – Drukhari: The list is labelled “shooty Drukhari” and yeah that about sums it up – double Trueborn, double Voidraven.
Wrap Up
More events and more lists tomorrow. So many lists, so little time. Comments, questions and suggestions to contact@goonhammer.com.
