Discover the Leagues of Votann’s playstyles and strategies in our Warhammer 40k guide- learn more about their units, combat patrol, if they have transports, and army builds!
Updated December 27th, 2024, by Rob Baer with the latest information and links.
In the grim darkness of the far future, the Leagues of Votann bring a whole new flavor to Warhammer 40k battles. These rugged space dwarves, known as the Kin, pack a blend of high-tech firepower, sturdy defenses, and gruff determination that sets them apart in the galaxy-spanning conflict.
But how do they actually play on the tabletop? What makes their units tick, and how can you wield them to glorious victory? This guide will shine a light on their key strategies, highlight unit strengths, and give you all the intel you need to craft a killer army list. Whether you’re building your first Kin force or tweaking your lineup for the next big game, it’s time to see what the Leagues of Votann bring to the battlefield.
Leagues of Votann: A New Frontier in Warhammer 40k
The Leagues of Votann are here to leave their mark on Warhammer 40k, and they’re doing it with a heady mix of grit, ingenuity, and high-tech prowess. Commonly referred to as the Kin, these futuristic space dwarves bring a fresh perspective to the battlefield. With a playstyle that thrives on precision, resilience, and tactical versatility, they are a must-know faction for players who want to shake things up in their games.
Background and Lore
The Leagues of Votann aren’t your typical Warhammer 40k faction. Rooted in their devotion to the Ancestors—the mysterious AI cores called the Votann—the Kin are fiercely united. They’ve spent millennia carving out their place among the stars, trading and battling in equal measure to ensure the prosperity of their civilization.
Unlike other 40k factions that revel in chaos or religious fanaticism, the Leagues approach conflict with a pragmatic mindset, guided by ancient knowledge and cutting-edge technology.
These aren’t just squat-sized warriors with beards; they’re a culture that balances tradition with relentless innovation. From mining for precious resources to deploying meticulously crafted war machines, the Kin embody a blend of industrial determination and futuristic ingenuity.
What Sets Them Apart in Warhammer 40k
The Leagues of Votann march to the beat of their own drum. Their playstyle combines durability, ranged firepower, and synergy, making them a tough nut to crack on the battlefield. What’s particularly striking about their army is the variety of ways they can approach combat.
- Toughness and Resilience
The Kin are built to last. With solid armor saves and bonuses that shrug off damage, their units can stand toe-to-toe with some of the heaviest hitters in the game. Special abilities tied to their Defenders of the Ancestors mechanic add another layer of survivability, making them a reliable choice for holding objectives and grinding down opponents. - Precision Firepower
The Leagues excel at taking down threats before they can cause trouble. Armed with advanced weapons like Ion Beamers and Magna-Rail Rifles, they specialize in pinpoint strikes that bypass armor and obliterate key enemy units. If you’re a fan of surgical precision, this is the faction for you. - Synergy Between Units
The Kin’s armies shine brightest when working as a cohesive force. Leaders like the Hernkyn Yaegirs bring buffs to nearby units, while transport options let you maneuver troops efficiently across the board. Speaking of transports, do Leagues of Votann have transports? Yes! Sleek and sturdy vessels like the Sagitaur help deliver troops exactly where they’re needed, adding speed to their otherwise steady advance.
A Look at the Leagues of Votann Combat Patrol
For new players or those building out their forces, the Leagues of Votann Combat Patrol is a fantastic starting point. This box set features a balanced array of units, including Hearthkyn Warriors and heavy support options, giving players the tools to experiment with the faction’s playstyles. The Leagues of Votann Combat Patrol’s versatility allows you to craft strategies ranging from defensive stalwarts to an aggressive forward push, all while leaning into the faction’s core themes.
Leagues of Votann: A Tactical Breakdown
The Leagues of Votann aren’t just another faction in Warhammer 40k—they’re a finely tuned machine of precision, resilience, and tactical brilliance (they might not be as flashy as the Emperor’s Children, but just as effective).
Known as the Kin, these compact yet formidable warriors boast some of the most intriguing playstyles on the tabletop. From holding ground with unshakable defensive strategies to overwhelming foes with devastating offensive maneuvers, the Leagues of Votann bring versatility to the game. Let’s break down their key approaches to domination in the 40k universe.
Leagues of Votann Playstyles
The Kin’s playstyle is built on adaptability. They excel in crafting strategies that suit both cautious players and those who prefer to charge headlong into the fray. Three primary approaches—defensive, offensive, and balanced—offer flexibility, allowing players to adjust their tactics based on the mission and their opponent’s strengths. And maybe, just maybe we will see this represented in the new Cavill Amazon series!
Defensive Strategies
If holding the line is your style, the Leagues of Votann have you covered. Their units are impressively durable, thanks to strong armor saves and faction-specific abilities like Void Armor. This mechanic reduces incoming damage and nullifies armor penetration, making them some of the sturdiest troops on the board.
The Hearthkyn Warriors are a cornerstone of this approach. These versatile troops excel at fortifying objectives and laying down covering fire. Pair them with a Hernkyn Yaegir for additional buffs, and your defensive lines will become nearly impenetrable.
People who are new to the faction might ask, do the Leagues of Votann have transports? The resounding answer is yes! Transport options, such as the Sagitaur, play a crucial role in defensive strategies, allowing you to reposition units as needed or protect critical squads during battle. Yes, the Leagues of Votann do have transports, and they’re as tough as the Kin who ride them.
Offensive Tactics
For those who enjoy taking the fight to the enemy, the Leagues of Votann offer plenty of firepower. Their arsenal includes powerful ranged weapons like the Magna-Rail Rifle, which can bypass invulnerable saves and deal significant damage to high-value targets. The Hernkyn Pioneers, mounted on sleek bikes, provide speed and precision, making them ideal for quick strikes or harassing enemy flanks.
When leaning into offense, focus on synergy. Units like the Ironkin Champion can buff nearby troops, amplifying their effectiveness. Meanwhile, key faction mechanics like Judgement Tokens add a unique layer to the strategy. These tokens stack up against enemy units, making your attacks deadlier with each hit.
Balanced Approach
A balanced playstyle combines the best of both worlds. This strategy leverages the Kin’s resilience to hold critical positions while launching precise attacks to weaken the enemy.
The Combat Patrol box for the Leagues of Votann is a great starting point for this approach. It offers a mix of units, including Hearthkyn Warriors and heavy-hitting options, giving you the tools to craft a flexible game plan. Use transports to shift troops where they’re needed most, and coordinate your firepower to break through enemy lines or counter their advances.
Leagues of Votann: Breaking Down the Key Units
The Leagues of Votann bring a fresh edge to Warhammer 40k, combining grit, tech, and tactical flair. Their unique mix of infantry, vehicles, and hero units make them one of the most dynamic factions to hit the battlefield. This guide takes a closer look at the standout units that define the Leagues of Votann, from their versatile core troops to their powerful transport options and inspiring leaders.
Infantry and Core Units
At the heart of every Leagues of Votann army are the Hearthkyn Warriors. These infantry units are the backbone of the Kin’s forces, blending versatility with durability. Whether you need troops to hold objectives or lay down suppressive fire, Hearthkyn Warriors rise to the challenge. Equipped with a mix of ranged and melee weapons, they can adapt to various battlefield roles. The Hernkyn Yaegirs are a new addition to the army, but extremely powerful for the army!
For a bit more firepower, the Einhyr Hearthguard step into the fray. These elite units bring heavier armor and more devastating weapons, making them ideal for holding critical positions or breaking through enemy defenses. Their blend of resilience and offense ensures they remain a threat in any scenario.
Do Leagues of Votann Have Transports?
A common question among new players is, do Leagues of Votann have transports? Absolutely, and they’re as robust and reliable as you’d expect from the Kin. The Sagitaur is a standout option, combining toughness with utility. It’s not just about moving troops—it’s about moving them safely while also packing enough firepower to keep enemies at bay.
Transports are key for repositioning your units, whether you’re looking to grab objectives or flank an unsuspecting opponent. The Sagitaur, with its dual-role capability, is particularly effective for balanced strategies. It can deliver troops straight into the action while providing ranged support, making it an invaluable part of any Leagues of Votann combat patrol.
Hero Units and Leaders
The Leagues of Votann wouldn’t be complete without their iconic hero units. These leaders bring unique abilities and buffs to the battlefield, ensuring the Kin fight smarter, not harder.
The Hernkyn Yaegirs are an exciting addition, offering strategic flexibility. These leaders can enhance nearby units with powerful buffs, making your Hearthkyn Warriors or Einhyr Hearthguard even more formidable. Whether bolstering defense or offense, they’re pivotal to a well-coordinated army.
Another key figure is the Ironkin Champion. Known for their tactical expertise, these leaders not only excel in combat but also amplify the effectiveness of the units around them. Paired with the faction’s unique Judgement Tokens mechanic, hero units can help turn the tide of battle by making key enemy units more vulnerable to your firepower.
Leagues of Votann: Crafting Winning Army Builds
The Leagues of Votann are a powerhouse faction in Warhammer 40k, offering players plenty of flexibility in how they approach the game. Whether you’re building out a Combat Patrol, configuring a Kill Team, or planning a full-scale army, the Kin’s unique mechanics and versatile units provide countless opportunities to dominate the battlefield. Let’s break down the key strategies for crafting the best Leagues of Votann builds.
To start playing them, you will need a Codex book or access to a reference site like Wahapedia, or the official Warhammer 40k army builder app (subscription required for most up-to-date rules.)
Leagues of Votann Combat Patrol Strategy
The Leagues of Votann Combat Patrol box is a fantastic entry point, offering a balanced selection of units that showcase the faction’s strengths. Inside, you’ll typically find Hearthkyn Warriors, an essential core unit, along with heavy hitters like Einhyr Hearthguard or a support hero. This setup allows for a range of strategies, making it perfect for new and experienced players alike.
The beauty of the Combat Patrol is its versatility. The Hearthkyn Warriors can hold objectives while laying down steady fire, and the Einhyr Hearthguard bring extra durability and punch for tougher fights. Leaders included in the box, such as a Hernkyn Yaegir or an Ironkin Champion, enhance the synergy of the group, offering buffs that turn your good units into great ones.
To maximize the Combat Patrol’s effectiveness, focus on board control. Use transports like the Sagitaur to move Hearthkyn Warriors into key positions early, then let their ranged weapons chip away at enemy forces. Pair this with the Einhyr Hearthguard as your hammer, ready to deal a crushing blow where it’s needed most.
Kill Team Configuration
For smaller skirmishes, the Leagues of Votann excel in Kill Team thanks to their hardy units and tech-savvy abilities. A Kill Team setup with Hearthkyn Warriors is an excellent choice for objective-based missions. Their solid defensive stats ensure they can hold their ground, while their weapons provide enough firepower to deal with a variety of threats.
Consider equipping some models with specialist weapons like ion beamers to target enemy elites. Adding a leader with tactical buffs can keep your Kill Team efficient and focused during critical moments. The faction’s unique mechanics, like Judgement Tokens, also shine in Kill Team, allowing you to target specific enemies with deadly precision.
Hernkyn Yaegirs can be another valuable addition to your Kill Team. Their utility in scouting and harassing enemy lines adds a dynamic element to your strategy, making them an excellent fit for the fast-paced nature of Kill Team missions.
Full Army Setups
Incorporating hero units, such as an Ironkin Champion or a Kahl, adds crucial leadership abilities. These characters not only buff nearby units but also provide flexibility in how you respond to your opponent’s moves.
A full army setup allows you to lean into the faction’s unique traits. By carefully managing Judgement Tokens and leveraging the synergy between your units, you can keep your army efficient and effective in any scenario.
From small skirmishes to full-scale battles, the Leagues of Votann offer endless possibilities for tactical brilliance. Their blend of durability, precision, and strategic depth makes them a standout faction on the tabletop.
Leagues of Votann: Painting and Customization
The Leagues of Votann bring more than just tactical brilliance to the tabletop—they offer an incredible canvas for hobbyists to showcase their creativity. From vibrant color schemes to rich thematic details, painting a Leagues of Votann army is as rewarding as playing one. With their intricate designs and iconic symbols, the Kin provide endless opportunities to create a force that stands out.
Color Schemes and Themes
Choosing the perfect color scheme for your Leagues of Votann army is the first step in making your army uniquely yours. Many players draw inspiration from official lore, which often showcases the Kin in earthy tones like browns, grays, and metallics, accented with bright blues or yellows. These palettes emphasize their rugged, industrial nature while adding a pop of color that highlights their advanced technology.
For those looking to break from tradition, the possibilities are wide open. A sleek, monochromatic approach with metallics and blacks can give your army a futuristic feel, while vibrant reds and oranges can evoke a more fiery and aggressive theme. If you want a classic aesthetic, shades of green and gold nod to the “squat” roots of the Leagues while keeping things modern.
Themes are another way to personalize your army. Maybe your Kin hail from a mining league, with dusty armor weathered from years of resource extraction. Or perhaps they belong to a militarized league, sporting clean, polished armor and sharp details to reflect their disciplined nature. By tying your color scheme to a theme, you’ll give your army a cohesive and immersive look.
Iconic Art and Symbolism
The Leagues of Votann boast some of the most striking symbolism in Warhammer 40k. Their runic designs, often etched onto armor and vehicles, are a defining feature. These runes represent their connection to the Votann cores—the mysterious AI entities they revere as the Ancestors. Incorporating these symbols into your painting process can elevate your models with intricate details that tie them back to the lore.
Decals and freehand designs are excellent tools for adding these iconic elements. Many official kits include transfers with faction-specific symbols, making it easy to apply them to banners, shoulder pads, or vehicles. For a more personalized touch, try hand-painting runes or other motifs onto flat surfaces like shields or armor panels.
Vehicles and transports, such as the Sagitaur, are particularly great canvases for adding larger symbols or scenic elements. Whether it’s a sprawling mural of the Ancestors or battle-worn markings from centuries of service, these larger models can carry more intricate designs that enhance your army’s narrative.
Leagues of Votann Paint Schemes in the Community
The hobby community has already started showcasing incredible Leagues of Votann paint schemes, and platforms like Reddit and Instagram are treasure troves of inspiration. From creative takes on traditional palettes to bold experiments in neon and metallics, there’s no shortage of ideas to kickstart your project.
Experimentation is key. Try out a few test models to nail down your colors and techniques before committing to an entire army. The Leagues of Votann’s detailed sculpts make them perfect for testing advanced techniques like non-metallic metal (NMM), weathering effects, and object source lighting (OSL).
Leagues of Votann: Wrapping Up the Kin
The Leagues of Votann have quickly established themselves as a unique and versatile faction in Warhammer 40k. With a mix of resilience, precision, and rich lore, they’re an exciting addition to the tabletop. From their playstyles to their unique mechanics, the Kin offer something for every type of player.
Summary of Playstyles
The Leagues of Votann are all about balance and adaptability. Their durable units, like Hearthkyn Warriors and Einhyr Hearthguard, ensure they can hold objectives and weather incoming fire. Meanwhile, their precision firepower—powered by weapons like Magna-Rail Rifles and Ion Beamers—makes quick work of enemy threats.
For those leaning into defense, their sturdy infantry and Void Armor make them excellent at holding key areas. On the offensive, the Kin bring plenty of mobility and targeted attacks, with units like Hernkyn Pioneers providing speed and versatility. The faction’s transports, such as the Sagitaur, further enhance their ability to control the battlefield.
If you prefer a balanced strategy, the Leagues shine here as well. Their synergy between units, particularly with buffs from leaders like the Ironkin Champion, lets you maintain flexibility while pressing both defensive and offensive advantages.
FAQs & Recommendations for New Players
Q: Do Leagues of Votann have transports?
A: Do Leagues of Votann have transports is a common question, but luckily, the answer is absolutely! The Sagitaur is a standout option, offering both durability and versatility. This transport isn’t just for moving troops—it also brings additional firepower, making it a valuable asset in any strategy.
Q: What’s the best starting point for building a Leagues of Votann army?
A: The Leagues of Votann Combat Patrol is an excellent choice for beginners. It includes a balanced selection of units, such as Hearthkyn Warriors, Einhyr Hearthguard, and a leader, giving you a solid foundation to build from.
Q: How do Judgement Tokens work, and why are they important?
A: Judgement Tokens are a unique mechanic for the Kin, marking enemy units as threats. The more tokens a unit has, the deadlier your attacks against them become. This system rewards strategic planning and punishes opponents for aggressive moves, making it a key element of Leagues of Votann gameplay.
Q: What’s a good way to paint Leagues of Votann?
A: Start by experimenting with color schemes that reflect your theme. Traditional schemes focus on earthy tones and metallics, but don’t hesitate to explore bold palettes like neon or monochromatic metallics. The intricate designs of their armor and vehicles are perfect for techniques like weathering or object source lighting.
Q: Are the Leagues of Votann a good choice for Kill Team?
A: Definitely! Their durability and utility make them well-suited for smaller-scale skirmishes. Hearthkyn Warriors, paired with a Hernkyn Yaegir for support, can hold their own in most missions.
Final Thoughts on the Leagues of Votann in 40k
Whether you’re drawn to their rugged charm, strategic depth, or stunning aesthetics, the Leagues of Votann have a lot to offer. Their combination of resilience, firepower, and unique mechanics ensures they stand out in the Warhammer 40k universe, making them a faction worth considering for your next army.
Warhammer 40k Factions Explained: A Complete Guide to Every Army
What do you think about the Leagues of Votann, if they have transports, and their Combat Patrol in Warhammer 40k? Do you like the playstyle and units in 40k?
About the Author: Travis Pasch
Travis Pasch
Job Title: Head Writer & Editor
Socials: @paschbass
About Travis Pasch: Travis has been a Warhammer 40k hobbyist since the 1990s, playing the game since Third Edition. Through extensive traveling, he’s seen a lot of the miniatures hobby from across the world, giving him a unique perspective on the latest gaming topics and trends.
Travis’s brother even owns a commission painting studio, where he’s picked up a lot of good advice and techniques for painting Warhammer and tabletop miniatures over the years, as well. Travis joined the Spikey Bits team in 2019 and has been the lead writer since 2020.
Currently, he’s working on converting all his 40k Adeptus Mechanicus models and becoming a true tech enjoyer, complete with both sad and happy robot noises!
