Warhammer 40K: The Chaos Space Marine Codex Is Here
We got our hands on the Chaos Space Marine Codex and it’s looking good so far. How good? Come see!
When the Chaos Space Marine Codex arrived in the studio we had a Goatboy sighting within moments. He sat down, devoured the codex, and belched his warp-spawned thoughts on video. Buckle-up.
Chaos Space Marine Codex Overview
We’ve been covering all the previews from GW for the week(s) building up to this. We’ve seen some of the rules, some of the new models, and we’ve gotten a few feelers for how this is all going to fit together. The initial impression Goatboy was having for this book is that it’s not “Tyranid-level” of power, it’s certainly up there.
The new Cultist models and rules look like a lot of fun to mess with. Plus they blow the door off for conversion options. If you’ve ever want to go with a super mutated army with a whole bunch of greenstuff this could be the build for you.
Other standout units also include things like the Emperor’s Children and the Obliterators. Both can deliver a disgusting amount of fire downrange with devastating results. If you want to get more up close and personal, the Possessed also got a buff in the new book. Keep an eye out for those scary looking dudes coming to haunt your nightmares.
Chaos Mark Update
We did a whole article talking about the new Marks of Chaos. We did want to mention they have changed for this overview so go check out that full article HERE for the details.
One thing to note about the Chaos Space Marine codex and the Chaos Marks is that all the other Cult Troops (Berzerkers, Plague Marines, Rubric Marines) are going to be found in their respective books. The Berzekers coming soon in the upcoming World Eaters book. The Emperor’s Children are the only “Cult” Troops still available in this one which is why they are mentioned in the Marks of Chaos section.
Chaos Legions
If you were wanting to play the Emperor’s Children or other Chaos Legions this book really is for you. The Red Corsairs are looking good as an option. The Black Legion led by Abaddon is also sounding like a possible contender. Really, if you aren’t playing Death Guard, Thousand Sons, or World Eaters, then you’re going to find something in this book that calls to you.
The book has some great synergy with the rules changes. While at first glance it might not look like your previous “Warptime” shenanigans will work, there’s actually ways around that. With the right mix of Powers, Prayers, Chaos Marks, and units you can create some surprises for your enemies.
Meta Thoughts
Goatboy sums it up pretty well in the video. The Chaos Space Marine book isn’t screaming “I need a nerf” right off the bat. It seems like it could be somewhere in the middle of the pack — at least initially. That’s kind of where you want all the armies to be. That means, with this book, you shouldn’t expect a heavy nerf in the next month or two.
It’s got some tricks to help it compete and it’s going to play differently than the current OP army of the week. And, because it’s closer to the upper-middle of the pack, as the power levels ebb and flow, the Chaos Space Marines should be able to weather that storm pretty well.
The Chaos Space Marine army has a lot of tools and is a very aggressive army. There’s going to be a “power build” in there and it’s going to take some time to crack it. That said, it offers up a lot of customization and opportunity to experiment. If you’ve been a Chaos Player faithfully waiting to unleash your Traitor Legions it’s about to be your time to shine.
Chaos is rising. Get ready for some Warp Storms!