Saga of the drop pod assault (saga has ended after 2 RTTs)

TheUnlikelyGamer84 · November 16, 2020

I can see that some of the problems I’ve run into are because I play on boards with lots of terrain. placement of the pods and still having room to get out and make a 7 inch rollable charge. I had more than one instance where all the claws made it to combat but only one or two characters were able to make it. Some of it is probably my placement once getting to engagement range but space in some instances is at a premium. So in that sense I agree that the characters usually play more of a support role. I am a herohammer guy though and really favor a combat lord. Double frost claw lord on wolf is my fav. Also, this is a small thing, I may put deathwind launcher on my drop pods. Same cost and S5 -1 in tactical. It has variable shots but the pods just sit there anyway when they land and I thought it might be worth being better at wounding targets of opportunity.

TiguriusX · November 16, 2020

I can see that some of the problems I’ve run into are because I play on boards with lots of terrain. placement of the pods and still having room to get out and make a 7 inch rollable charge. I had more than one instance where all the claws made it to combat but only one or two characters were able to make it. Some of it is probably my placement once getting to engagement range but space in some instances is at a premium. So in that sense I agree that the characters usually play more of a support role. I am a herohammer guy though and really favor a combat lord. Double frost claw lord on wolf is my fav. Also, this is a small thing, I may put deathwind launcher on my drop pods. Same cost and S5 -1 in tactical. It has variable shots but the pods just sit there anyway when they land and I thought it might be worth being better at wounding targets of opportunity.

I don't like the short range of those launchers and I don't want to shoot my charge targets to make it harder

The blood claw pods are just there to muck things up and clear enemy troops if possible

My heavy hitters come in wave 2

I will say I am becoming fond of these BCs and how they perform

1 CP to activate savage strike and they are a decent threat hitting on 2s and wounding MEQ on 3s (basically space wolf/blood angel combo)

When assault doctrine is active it goes from fun to insane with exploding 6s and AP2 chainswords

It has me wondering if a giant 10-15 man unit coming on the hunt turn 3 may be worth replacing one of my elite choices

TheUnlikelyGamer84 · November 17, 2020

Taking the large squad would maximize the strategem. I would just be careful of where they come in vs marines, Tau and eldar. From what I understand Auspex scan no longer makes the shooter hit at -1. If they have a decent shooter left or a blast weapon it could hurt. Edited November 17, 2020 by TheUnlikelyGamer84

Commander_Moustache · November 17, 2020

Taking the large squad would maximize the strategem. I would just be careful of where they come in vs marines, Tau and eldar. From what I understand Auspex scan no longer makes the shooter hit at -1. If they have a decent shooter left or a blast weapon it could hurt.

ASFAIK its not a problem. Its the drop pod that comes in from reserve (allowing that to be fired on) and then the unit disembarks. Meaning it isnt a target.

TiguriusX · November 17, 2020

Taking the large squad would maximize the strategem. I would just be careful of where they come in vs marines, Tau and eldar. From what I understand Auspex scan no longer makes the shooter hit at -1. If they have a decent shooter left or a blast weapon it could hurt.

ASFAIK its not a problem. Its the drop pod that comes in from reserve (allowing that to be fired on) and then the unit disembarks. Meaning it isnt a target.

We were talking about a change in the list using 10-15 BCs to outflank

That would be the unit in danger of being shot

In my games so far the only units that auspex scan are plasma inceptors. Most people don't have enough shooting in other units to make it worth it.

When I face plasma inceptors I put eradicators in reserve to shoot them from 24"

Karhedron · November 17, 2020

ASFAIK its not a problem. Its the drop pod that comes in from reserve (allowing that to be fired on) and then the unit disembarks. Meaning it isnt a target.

That was the case in 8th. In 9th, Auspex scan triggers at the end of the movement phase. I think this means that any squad that disembarked from a Pod would then be a viable target.

2. REINFORCEMENTS

Some units have a rule that allows them to start the battle in a

location other than on the battlefield; units that use such rules are

called Reinforcements

The unit inside the pod would be counted as reinforcements since the term is now defined to mean any form of deployment where the unit does not start the game on the table. This would include being inside a Pod.

Please correct me if I am wrong.

TiguriusX · November 17, 2020

ASFAIK its not a problem. Its the drop pod that comes in from reserve (allowing that to be fired on) and then the unit disembarks. Meaning it isnt a target.

That was the case in 8th. In 9th, Auspex scan triggers at the end of the movement phase. I think this means that any squad that disembarked from a Pod would then be a viable target.

2. REINFORCEMENTS

Some units have a rule that allows them to start the battle in a

location other than on the battlefield; units that use such rules are

called Reinforcements

The unit inside the pod would be counted as reinforcements since the term is now defined to mean any form of deployment where the unit does not start the game on the table. This would include being inside a Pod.

Please correct me if I am wrong.

That does seem like a possible interpretation...hmmm

It would also blow a hole in one of the main advantages of this list

An alternative melta delivery system is eradicators...I just recently learned about heavy melta rifles

With keen senses we can make heavy melta rifles ignore the move/fire penalty for a heavy weapon

So you get D6+2 damage 24" away

A squad of 6 is less points than the LF with the drop pod too

Decisions decisions...

Commander_Moustache · November 17, 2020

ASFAIK its not a problem. Its the drop pod that comes in from reserve (allowing that to be fired on) and then the unit disembarks. Meaning it isnt a target.

That was the case in 8th. In 9th, Auspex scan triggers at the end of the movement phase. I think this means that any squad that disembarked from a Pod would then be a viable target.

2. REINFORCEMENTS

Some units have a rule that allows them to start the battle in a

location other than on the battlefield; units that use such rules are

called Reinforcements

The unit inside the pod would be counted as reinforcements since the term is now defined to mean any form of deployment where the unit does not start the game on the table. This would include being inside a Pod.

Please correct me if I am wrong.

Again, I dont think so. Its one of those things we will need a gw say so on to be sure, but my thoughts as it is now, could technically mean you could shoot things that emerged from a vehicle this turn.

Would also mean that if you had a soup list, and you had 2 startagems that did the same thing (but were named differently) you would be able to shoot down a vehicle that arrived from reserves, and then shoot the things that got out of it.

Karhedron · November 17, 2020

Again, I dont think so. Its one of those things we will need a gw say so on to be sure, but my thoughts as it is now, could technically mean you could shoot things that emerged from a vehicle this turn.

I don't expect GW to make a ruling on this. We are reading too much into this because it required a ruling during 8th. The rules for reinforcements are different in 9th and so is the wording and function of the Stratagem. It seems to me like GW have reworded them specifically to avoid the need for FAQs (although I am sure things will still crop up.

Units embarked on Transports do not count as Reinforcements. But units that start off the table because they are in a Drop Pod (or Stormwolf etc) would count.

Would also mean that if you had a soup list, and you had 2 startagems that did the same thing (but were named differently) you would be able to shoot down a vehicle that arrived from reserves, and then shoot the things that got out of it.

Technically I believe that is correct. It is a small benefit to gain for losing out on super doctrines.

Karhedron · November 17, 2020

An alternative melta delivery system is eradicators...I just recently learned about heavy melta rifles

With keen senses we can make heavy melta rifles ignore the move/fire penalty for a heavy weapon

So you get D6+2 damage 24" away

A squad of 6 is less points than the LF with the drop pod too

I can see pros and cons of both. Drop Pods are harder screen against because they can turn up from any angle and can drop on T1 if your opponent is careless. Units Outflanking or using the Reserves stratagem can only come on from board edges and are affected by turn restrictions. Plus it costs CPsto Reserve/Outflank.

5 Fangs get the same firepower as 6 Eradicators on the turn they drop thanks to the Cherub but after that the Eradictaors get the advantage of firepower. Eradicators are also more durable with 50% more wounds and T5. Plus they have access to both THP and strat to gain a 2+ save vs small arms.

It is a tough choice, which probably means GW have done a remarkably good job of balancing the units. :wink:

TiguriusX · November 17, 2020

An alternative melta delivery system is eradicators...I just recently learned about heavy melta rifles

With keen senses we can make heavy melta rifles ignore the move/fire penalty for a heavy weapon

So you get D6+2 damage 24" away

A squad of 6 is less points than the LF with the drop pod too

I can see pros and cons of both. Drop Pods are harder screen against because they can turn up from any angle and can drop on T1 if your opponent is careless. Units Outflanking or using the Reserves stratagem can only come on from board edges and are affected by turn restrictions. Plus it costs CPsto Reserve/Outflank.

5 Fangs get the same firepower as 6 Eradicators on the turn they drop thanks to the Cherub but after that the Eradictaors get the advantage of firepower. Eradicators are also more durable with 50% more wounds and T5. Plus they have access to both THP and strat to gain a 2+ save vs small arms.

It is a tough choice, which probably means GW have done a remarkably good job of balancing the units.

My natural response is "why not both!"

Muwahahaha

Karhedron · November 17, 2020

My natural response is "why not both!"

Muwahahaha

What is better than a smoking dead heretic? Two smoking dead heretics! :biggrin.:

The only issue I could forsee with MM Fangs and Heavy Eradicators is that they are both likely to want to use Keen Senses on the turn they arrive so you would either need to stagger them or have them share. The standard Eradicators are a bit more flexible in that regard.

TiguriusX · November 17, 2020

My natural response is "why not both!"

Muwahahaha

What is better than a smoking dead heretic? Two smoking dead heretics!

The only issue I could forsee with MM Fangs and Heavy Eradicators is that they are both likely to want to use Keen Senses on the turn they arrive so you would either need to stagger them or have them share. The standard Eradicators are a bit more flexible in that regard.

We have many tricks...

Keen senses is just 1 trick

Steady advance (2 cp) is another (doesnt work on reserves)

So is recitation of focus (use it with the auto pass stratagem after your reserves arrive)

*edit*

You can also slap the chapter master reroll all on a unit to help the odds of rolling with a penalty after moving...but not units arriving from reserves (this is part of my super secret list I just created...I will share after I test it...basically lots of Eradicators with heavy melta that don't miss)

Edited November 17, 2020 by TiguriusX

FabulousRex · November 20, 2020

I'm really liking MM Attack Bike squads in comparison to Eradicators. 35pts extra for a squad of 3 gets you equivalent firepower plus twin bolters, 3 extra wounds, and almost triple the movement.

I think Eradicators are going to be nerfed sooner or later, but still be good. MMAB are just as good, if not better, for a little bit more. Only problem is that SW tend to have alot of Fast Attack choices already.

Karhedron · November 20, 2020

Agreed, MM Attack bikes are very good. However SWs have "On the Hunt" to benefit Eradicators.

However I do have a trio of HB Attack bikes that I am tempted to convert.

TiguriusX · November 24, 2020

SW-Drop Assault Judiciar Variant v. Custodes

Map/Mission: Scorched Earth

My Army

++ Battalion Detachment 0CP (Imperium - Adeptus Astartes - Space Wolves) [113 PL, 11CP, 2,000pts] ++

+ Configuration [12CP] +

**Chapter Selection**: Space Wolves

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

Detachment CP

+ HQ [19 PL, 380pts] +

Captain [5 PL, 115pts]: Bolt pistol, Frag & Krak grenades, Storm shield [10pts], Thunder hammer [20pts]

Captain on Bike [8 PL, 160pts]: Chapter Command: Chapter Master [2 PL, 40pts], Frag & Krak grenades, Power fist [10pts], Storm shield [10pts], Twin boltgun, Warlord

Chaplain [6 PL, 105pts]: 5. Recitation of Focus, 6. Canticle of Hate (Aura), Bolt pistol, Chapter Command: Master of Sanctity [1 PL, 25pts], Crozius arcanum, Frag & Krak grenades, Litany of Hate

+ Troops [18 PL, 272pts] +

Blood Claws [6 PL, 90pts]

. 4x Blood Claw [72pts]: 4x Bolt pistol, 4x Frag & Krak grenades

. Blood Claw Pack Leader [18pts]: Astartes Chainsword, Bolt pistol, Frag & Krak grenades

Blood Claws [6 PL, 90pts]

. 4x Blood Claw [72pts]: 4x Bolt pistol, 4x Frag & Krak grenades

. Blood Claw Pack Leader [18pts]: Astartes Chainsword, Bolt pistol, Frag & Krak grenades

Grey Hunters [6 PL, 92pts]: Astartes Chainsword [1pts]

. Grey Hunter Pack Leader [19pts]: Astartes Chainsword [1pts], Bolt pistol, Boltgun, Frag & Krak grenades

. 4x Grey Hunter w/Bolt Pistol [72pts]: 4x Bolt pistol, 4x Boltgun, 4x Frag & Krak grenades

+ Elites [37 PL, -1CP, 695pts] +

Bladeguard Veteran Squad [5 PL, 105pts]

. 2x Bladeguard Veteran [70pts]: 2x Frag & Krak grenades, 2x Heavy Bolt Pistol, 2x Master-crafted Power Sword, 2x Storm Shield

. Bladeguard Veteran Sgt [35pts]: Frag & Krak grenades, Heavy Bolt Pistol, Master-crafted Power Sword, Storm Shield

Company Champion [4 PL, -1CP, 70pts]: Bolt pistol, Chapter Command: Chapter Champion [1 PL, 15pts], Combat shield, Frag & Krak grenades, Martial Exemplar, Master-crafted power sword, Stratagem: Hero of the Chapter [-1CP]

Judiciar [5 PL, 85pts]: Absolver Bolt Pistol, Executioner Relic Blade, Frag & Krak grenades

Wolf Guard Terminators [9 PL, 165pts]

. Wolf Guard in Terminator Armour [33pts]: Storm bolter, Storm shield

. Wolf Guard Terminator Pack Leader [33pts]: Lightning Claw, Storm bolter

Wulfen Dreadnought [7 PL, 135pts]

. Great Wolf Claw and Blizzard Shield [15pts]

. . Blizzard Shield [10pts]: Blizzard shield [5pts], Heavy flamer [5pts]

. . Great Wolf Claw [5pts]: Great Wolf Claw, Heavy flamer [5pts]

Wulfen Dreadnought [7 PL, 135pts]

. Great Wolf Claw and Blizzard Shield [15pts]

. . Blizzard Shield [10pts]: Blizzard shield [5pts], Heavy flamer [5pts]

. . Great Wolf Claw [5pts]: Great Wolf Claw, Heavy flamer [5pts]

+ Fast Attack [2 PL, 30pts] +

Cyberwolves [1 PL, 15pts]

. Cyberwolf [15pts]: Teeth and claws

Cyberwolves [1 PL, 15pts]

. Cyberwolf [15pts]: Teeth and claws

+ Heavy Support [23 PL, 373pts] +

Eradicator Squad [12 PL, 160pts]: Melta rifle

. 3x Eradicator [120pts]: 3x Bolt pistol

. Eradicator Sgt [40pts]: Bolt pistol

Long Fangs [11 PL, 213pts]: Armorium Cherub [5pts]

. Long Fang [38pts]: Bolt pistol, Frag & Krak grenades, Multi-melta [20pts]

. Long Fang Pack Leader [18pts]: Astartes Chainsword, Frag & Krak grenades

. . Boltgun and Bolt Pistol: Bolt pistol, Boltgun

+ Dedicated Transport [14 PL, 250pts] +

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

Razorback [6 PL, 110pts]: Twin heavy bolter

++ Total: [113 PL, 11CP, 2,000pts] ++

His Army

Battalion Detachment 0CP (Imperium - Adeptus Custodes)

Configuration

Battle Size

Selections: 3. Strike Force (101-200 Total PL / 1001-2000 Points)

Detachment CP

Shield Host

Selections: Dread Host

Agents of the Imperium

Eversor Assassin

HQ

Shield-Captain on Dawneagle Jetbike

Selections: Hurricane Bolter, Misericordia, Warlord

Shield-Captain on Dawneagle Jetbike

Selections: Hurricane Bolter

Troops

Custodian Guard Squad

Custodian