Your guide to the 40k Balance Dataslate 10th Edition updates and points changes from the Munitorum Field Manual and Rules Commentary.
Updated November 21st, 2024, by Rob Baer. This post has been updated with the latest points, and Warhammer 40k rules FAQ updates from Games Workshop.
The 10th Edition Warhammer 40k Balance Dataslate, Rules Commentary, and points changes in the Munitorum Field Manual have brought significant changes to the game. From major core rule adjustments to faction balance updates, this article will guide you through all the latest updates and their impact on gameplay and the meta.
Warhammer 40k Balance Dataslate 10th Edition & Points Update Summary
The armies at the top of the 10th Edition Warhammer 40k meta are getting some severe NERFS, while the underperforming armies are getting some love. If you’ve been underwhelmed with your army lately, these latest changes might be what you were waiting for.
- November 2024: Games Workshop issued a new FAQ ahead of the World Championships of Warhammer and promises another big update soon.
- October 16th, 2024: While a new Warhammer 40k 10th edition Balance Dataslate was not released this quarter, new Munitorium points changes and rules commentary FAQ updates were.
- The latest updates included changes to points, faction rules, core rules commentary, and more, affecting nearly all the factions in the game.
- The updated 40k movement rules for the Tacoma US Open tournament are now official for all games!
- The third Balance Dataslate for Warhammer 40k was released on June 20th, 2024 (the previous was released in January). Games Workshop has also announced that they will now only be doing 40k Balance Dataslate updates every other quarter (initially, they said every quarter), with points changes every quarter, making January and June the two main Balance Dataslate updates for 2024.
- Armies at the top of the meta received significant NERFs, while underperforming armies were buffed in both the June and January 40k Balance Dataslate.
- Major core rule changes include adjustments to Indirect Fire Weapons, Overwatch for Titanic Units, and Movement Pivot Values.
- The Tank Shock Stratagem has been nerfed, and the usage of Insane Bravery has been limited to once per battle.
- Devastating Wounds no longer spill over to more than one model.
- Significant movement changes simplify the rules, making gameplay smoother and more intuitive in both the June and January 40k Balance Dataslate.
Here’s a link to each section of the updates so you can jump to what interests you the most!
- Ultimate Guide to Warhammer 40k 10th Edition June 2024 Balance Dataslate
- Major Core Rules Changes in Warhammer 40,000
- Significant Movement Changes in Warhammer 40,000
- Detailed Faction Balance Updates
- Adjustments to Stratagems and Abilities
- Points Updates Across Factions
- Comprehensive FAQs and Clarifications
- Impact on Gameplay and Meta
- 10th Edition Warhammer 40k Points Changes Munitorium Field Manual
New November FAQ Arrives Ahead of 40k Championships
GW has created a new FAQ ahead of the World Championships or Warhammer and promises another big update soon. These were sent out to players and not posted on Warhammer Community, but they clear up some burning questions. This is very similar to how GW did it at the Tacoma Open and incorporated it into June’s Warhammer 40k Balance Dataslate.
Whether you’re fielding the unyielding Deathwing, the tactical Tempestus Scions, or the ferocious Death Company Dreadnought, the latest updates bring just the right amount of polish to the battlefield. So look for these changes to be part of the next official Warhammer 40k Dataslate updates in December 2024, just in time for LVO 2025!
October 2024’s 10th Edition 40k Detailed Rules Updates By Faction: Balance Dataslate and FAQ
The latest 10th Edition Balance Dataslate and FAQ rules updates from October 16th, 2024, brought a host of changes designed to level the playing field across various factions in Warhammer 40k but didn’t have the same overwhelming impact as the June and January Dataslate.
These targeted updates aim to address imbalances, boost underperforming units, and ensure a diverse and competitive meta. Let’s get into the key faction-specific changes.
Space Marine Rules Changes
Pplayers relying on the Fire Discipline combo are in for a rough time. This once-popular setup saw multiple components hit with points increases.
Eradicators, the Apothecary Biologis, and the Fire Discipline enhancement itself all went up, with Eradicators seeing a 5-point bump for the 3-model unit and a 10-point hike for the 6-model squad.
While it’s understandable that such a potent combination would draw attention, this feels like an overcorrection that leaves some players frustrated—especially those who weren’t even abusing the larger squads
In contrast, some other Marine units saw points drop to potentially revive them from the bench. The Storm Speeder variants, especially the Hammerstrike, are looking more viable now, sitting at just 125 points.
These units were often overlooked, but with the right list, they could make a return to the battlefield. Phobos Captains, Heavy Intercessors, and even the Invictor Tactical Warsuit got modest reductions, but none of these feel game-changing in the current meta.
Jump Intercessors, popular for their ability to grab objectives and perform actions, didn’t escape untouched either, seeing a rise to 90 points for a 5-man squad. Meanwhile, Vanguard Veterans got a points bump, catching some flak due to their performance in Blood Angels lists, but that increase feels like collateral damage for those not running them under that banner.
The Desolation Squads, those heavy weapons specialists that had largely fallen out of competitive play, got hit with a particularly unnecessary nerf: their Targeter Optics ability no longer ignores penalties for indirect fire.
It’s a minor change, but given the unit’s current unpopularity, it feels like kicking a squad that’s already down.
In terms of rules tweaks, Lieutenants can now join Captains in units they lead, fixing an ambiguous interaction, and Hellblasters can’t shoot when killed by non-attacks. These small adjustments clean up a few corner cases, but they don’t have a major impact on overall gameplay.
Rules Balance Status: Mixed Outcome (Buffed and NERFED)
The Q4 2024 update leaves Space Marines in a complicated position. Ultramarines, particularly Roboute Guilliman, received major buffs with points drops, making them more competitive. However, popular combos like Fire Discipline and Eradicators got hit with point increases, reducing their effectiveness.
While some underused units saw point reductions, overall, the changes are a balancing act with both buffs and nerfs depending on the playstyle and units you rely on to play the army.
Imperial Faction Changes
The Q4 2024 balance update has hit the Imperium factions hard and fast, with points changes across the board and a few key rule tweaks that have left some armies cheering while others scramble to adjust. Let’s break down the winners and losers from the latest adjustments, faction by faction.
Adepta Sororitas: Saintly Struggles
The Adepta Sororitas came into this update as one of the top-performing factions, so it’s no surprise that they took a few hits. The Triumph of Saint Katherine went up by 60 points, and Immolators, Dominions, and Castigators all saw increases, leaving many Sisters fans grumbling.
The Cherub ability also got a nerf, now limited to only part of the squad after splitting from transports, which slightly weakens their miracle dice shenanigans. The balance change feels like a hammer to Bringers of Flame, with no real compensation for these hikes.
While Battle Sisters Squads got a 10-point drop, the general feeling is that this update was all punishment, no reward.
Rules Balance Status: Loser (NERFED)
The Adepta Sororitas still have potential but will need more creative list-building to thrive in the current meta. Their core units are more expensive, which may push players to experiment with less popular options.
Adeptus Custodes: Golden Boys, Still Shiny but Unchanged
Custodes players were hoping for a bit more from this update, but while the Trajann Valoris points drop by 10 may seem like a buff, it doesn’t change the fact that his abilities have been heavily nerfed, reducing his overall effectiveness.
Other minor point decreases across Dreadnoughts and Vertus Praetors are helpful but don’t drastically change the faction’s playstyle. Custodes are still an elite, low-model-count army, and these tweaks haven’t added enough to change that dynamic significantly.
Rules Balance Status: Mild Loser (NERFED)
While technically receiving point decreases, these changes are minor, and Custodes still lack the variety needed to feel truly competitive.
Adeptus Mechanicus: Tinkerers Take a Hit
Adeptus Mechanicus has been on the rise recently, but this balance update may knock them down a peg. Popular units like Ironstriders and Pteraxii went up in points, while lesser-used units like Electro-Priests and Onager Dunecrawlers saw slight reductions.
While Tech-Priests got small discounts, they don’t offer enough to offset the key units that just became more expensive. The real question is whether the buffs to the more obscure units are enough to push new builds forward.
Rules Balance Status: Neutral
Ad Mech players won’t feel entirely crushed, but the slight nerfs to popular units keep the faction from getting a clear win in this update.
Astra Militarum: The Tank Commander Paradox
The Tank Commander finally got its long-awaited buff with the addition of the Squadron keyword, allowing it to issue orders to itself and other commanders. But it comes at a cost: a 20-point increase. Meanwhile, Bullgryns also took a significant hit, going up by 20 to 40 points, pushing them out of many lists.
While Scout Sentinels and Heavy Weapons Squads saw point reductions, the overall impact on Astra Militarum seems to be a net negative due to the nerfs to key units.
Rules Balance Status: Loser (NERFED)
The tank buffs are appreciated, but the hefty price hikes to Bullgryns and key units leave Guard players feeling the pinch.
Grey Knights: A Gift from the Emperor
Grey Knights have come out of this update smiling. Brotherhood Terminators, Paladins, and Purgation Squads all saw reductions of 10 points, making them even more efficient on the battlefield. Grey Knights were already competitive before the update, so these point drops feel like an unnecessary boon for an already powerful faction.
With the ability to teleport around the battlefield and a points break on their core units, Grey Knights could become a top-tier threat moving forward.
Rules Balance Status: Winner (Buffed)
Grey Knights are sitting pretty after this update, with buffs to some of their most useful units and no real nerfs in sight.
Imperial Knights: Big Boys Get Bigger
Imperial Knights received minor point drops, with units like the Knight Errant and Knight Castellan becoming more affordable. While these reductions won’t radically change the faction, they do make the bigger knights more viable, especially for those trying to squeeze a bit more power into a small army list.
Rules Balance Status: Slight Winner (Buffed)
These point drops are nice, but they don’t drastically alter how Knights function. However, they could see more variety in competitive play.
Xenos Faction Changes
The Q4 2024 balance update for Warhammer 40k has brought significant changes to the Xenos factions, with points adjustments and a few errata that will force players to rethink their strategies.
Let’s take a closer look at how these factions fared, mixing some practical insights for players, whether you’re fielding fleets of Tyranids or plotting with sneaky Genestealer Cults.
Aeldari: A (Slightly) Kinder Fate
The Aeldari have been paying for their sins ever since their wildly overpowered 10th Edition launch, but this time, it’s less of a smiting and more of a gentle prod. Points drops across popular units like Falcons, Fire Prisms, Wave Serpents, and even the infamous Wraithknight offer some relief.
The Corsairs also received price cuts, making them even more versatile for cheap Scout Battleline options. However, the Yncarne received a mild nerf in how it teleports, and the Autarch’s strategic prowess got a tweak to reduce its efficiency slightly.
Rules Balance Status: Slight Winner (Buffed)
While the Aeldari still need to navigate some difficult matchups, these point reductions and nerfs to their major threats will allow more flexibility in list-building and improve their chances in the new meta.
Drukhari: The Blade Dulls
The Drukhari have been quietly dominating the battlefield with fast units and brutal melee. This update, however, strikes where it hurts most—character-heavy and Incubi-centric builds. Drazhar, Archons, Incubi, and several other key units saw point increases, meaning the deadly “blade” of the Dark Kin has been dulled.
Hellions saw a slight point reduction, but not enough to drastically change the overall strategy.
Rules Balance Status: Moderate Loser (NERFED)
Though these nerfs sting, they were expected. Drukhari lists will need to tighten up and adapt, likely leaning less on the powerful character units and focusing more on cheaper, efficient alternatives.
Genestealer Cults: Underground Uprising
GSC fans, rejoice—this sneaky faction is coming out of the shadows with some serious point drops across their core units. Aberrants, Acolytes, Neophytes, and the Patriarch all saw points cuts, while Atalan Jackals got even cheaper.
These point reductions add extra durability and flexibility to a faction that thrives on regeneration and threat saturation, making their ambush tactics even more deadly.
Rules Balance Status: Sneaky Winner (Buffed)
GSC get stronger simply by gaining more assets on the table. These buffs mean GSC armies can field more units to bring back from reserves, making them even harder to pin down.
Leagues of Votann: Steady as the Kyn Go
The Leagues of Votann remain rock solid with only a few changes. Hernkyn Yaegirs took a slight points hike, but Hearthguard got a welcome drop, which may revive the “Dwarven Terminators” in lists.
While these changes are minor, Votann stay consistent as a mid-tier force, which works in their favor as many top armies take hits.
Rules Balance Status: Slight Winner (Buffed)
The tweaks here are small but positive overall. Votann’s reliability will continue to serve them well as they capitalize on other factions’ nerfs.
Orks: Time to WAAAGH Again
The Orks have had a tough time lately, but this update brings a wave of point reductions that could put the green tide back on the map. Boyz, Deff Dreads, Kill Rigs, and even Meganobz all got cheaper, giving Ork players the tools to flood the battlefield once again.
The Waaagh! rules were also clarified to smooth out gameplay interactions, making the Orks even more unpredictable.
Rules Balance Status: Big Winner (Buffed)
These point drops give the Orks more options for horde-style play, reinforcing their ability to overwhelm opponents with sheer numbers and stompy vehicles.
Necrons: Time to Rise (Again)
Necrons, sitting comfortably as a second-tier faction, have been handed some interesting point adjustments. Annihilation Barges, Catacomb Command Barges, and Triarch Praetorians all saw point drops, while Monoliths and Tesseract Vaults went up slightly.
Combined with adjustments to the Obeisance Phalanx, these changes should boost the army’s mid-tier competitive play.
Rules Balance Status: Neutral
The point cuts balance out the nerfs, keeping Necrons in a solid position. Their performance may rise slightly as other armies falter, but it’s business as usual for the robotic undead.
T’au Empire: Firepower Boost
The T’au escape major nerfs, with only Riptides going up slightly. On the other hand, Kroot Carnivores and Kroot Leaders all got cheaper, making the sneaky and fast Kroot elements even more viable.
The Puretide Engram Chip also got buffed, which could add a tactical edge to T’au commanders.
Rules Balance Status: Winner (Buffed)
With only minor point increases to their big guns and buffs to their supporting units, T’au continue to pack a serious punch. Expect them to remain competitive with even more efficient Kroot-led strategies.
Tyranids: Still Creeping Strong
Tyranids remain a powerhouse after this update, with small point changes mostly benefiting them. Winged Hive Tyrants, Von Ryan’s Leapers, and Carnifexes all got cheaper, while Pyrovores and Lictors saw slight increases.
Minor rule tweaks don’t impact their overall performance, meaning Tyranids will continue to swarm the tabletop effectively.
Rules Balance Status: Slight Winner (Buffed)
Tyranids benefit from standing still while the top factions around them are hit with heavier nerfs. Their efficiency will keep them at the forefront of competitive play.
Chaos Faction Changes
The Q4 2024 balance update has left no faction untouched, and the Chaos forces—those bringers of ruin and corruption—have received their fair share of changes.
Some factions have come out stronger, while others are licking their wounds. Let’s break down what the Chaos factions can expect moving forward.
Chaos Daemons: Small Wins for the Warp’s Minions
Chaos Daemons walked away from this update with a few welcome point drops. Shalaxi saw a 25-point decrease, making this queen of murder slightly more accessible.
Beasts of Nurgle also got a minor reduction, which will help out players looking to flood the board with gross, regenerating monsters. On the downside, Rendmasters saw a 15-point increase, which hits Khorne-heavy lists.
No major rule changes came through, but a clarification ensures that Daemons brought as allies don’t benefit from Shadow of Chaos, which should silence anyone who thought otherwise.
Rules Balance Status: Slight Winner (Buffed)
Daemons got some useful point drops and largely avoided the NERF bat, making them one of the quieter winners in this update. The meta shifting away from factions that gave them trouble, like Thousand Sons, also works in their favor.
Chaos Knights: War Dogs Get a Discount
Chaos Knights have been struggling with subpar army rules and pricey units, but this update helps. Abominants, Desecrators, and Despoilers all saw decent point reductions, while the ever-popular War Dog variants like Brigands and Stalkers got 5-point discounts.
Though these changes don’t revolutionize the faction, they do open up more flexibility for building competitive lists.
Rules Balance Status: Winner (Buffed)
While the point drops might not dramatically boost their power level, Chaos Knights come out of this update with more efficient units, particularly War Dogs, making them a more viable force in the meta.
Chaos Space Marines: Cultists in the Crosshairs
Chaos Space Marines saw a significant number of point adjustments, with Abaddon dropping 15 points, making him an even more fearsome leader.
Other key units like Obliterators, Havocs, and Terminators also got minor reductions, improving the internal balance. However, Accursed Cultists and Dark Commune—favorites in some recent top lists—went up, so expect a bit of a shake-up for those builds.
Rules Balance Status: Winner (Buffed)
With a slew of point drops and only a few targeted increases, Chaos Space Marines get a well-needed boost to their internal balance, and the faction should be a bit easier to play competitively.
Death Guard: Pestilential Points Boost
Death Guard continue to crawl their way back into relevance. The most notable change is Mortarion, who dropped 25 points, making him a bit more tempting to field. Deathshroud Terminators also got cheaper, which may encourage more players to bring bigger units of these elite bodyguards.
These point reductions, combined with a couple of clarifications for Typhus, give Death Guard a small but meaningful boost.
Rules Balance Status: Slight Winner (Buffed)
The combination of point reductions and key rules clarifications keeps Death Guard moving in the right direction, although it’s unlikely to be enough to elevate them to top-tier status.
Thousand Sons: A Curse from the Warp
The Thousand Sons were hit hard in this update. Key characters like Ahriman and the Infernal Master got point increases, as did Magnus, who now costs a hefty 465 points.
Rubric Marines also became more expensive in small squads, forcing list adjustments for many players. These nerfs, while expected, will require some creative list-building to overcome.
Rules Balance Status: Big Loser (NERFED)
Thousand Sons have been reigning near the top of competitive play, and this update brings them down a few pegs. These point hikes, while deserved, will force players to rethink their army compositions.
World Eaters: Feeling the Butcher’s Bill
World Eaters didn’t escape this update unscathed. Angron went up by 20 points, and the Master of Executions and Chaos Spawn saw minor increases as well. These aren’t devastating changes, but for an army with limited units to begin with, every point matters.
The World Eaters will still hit hard, but squeezing in everything you want might be a bit tougher.
Rules Balance Status: Slight Loser (NERFED)
These small point hikes will frustrate players who are already struggling to fit everything they need into a list. The faction remains strong but took an unnecessary hit.
40k Balance Dataslate 10th Edition: Adjustments to Stratagems and Abilities
Stratagems and abilities are a core part of Warhammer 40,000’s tactical depth, and the latest 10th Edition Balance Dataslate brings several important adjustments to these elements. These changes aim to refine gameplay, making stratagems and abilities more balanced and aligned with their intended narrative.
Here are some of the key updates.
Stratagem Cost Modifications:
One of the significant changes involves how the cost of stratagems is modified. Previously, some abilities could reduce the cost of stratagems, sometimes even allowing for free usage of powerful abilities. The new rules standardize these modifications.
Now, unless the stratagem is specifically named by the ability, the cost can only be reduced by 1 CP each time it is used. This prevents players from exploiting cost reductions to spam powerful stratagems and ensures a more balanced use of these tactical tools.
Impact on Battle Tactic Stratagems:
The distinction for Battle Tactic stratagems has been removed, making the cost reduction rules more uniform across all stratagems. This change addresses the arbitrary nature of the previous system and ensures a consistent impact across different factions and detachments.
Players will now find that their units’ abilities work more predictably, promoting fair play and strategic depth.
Repeated Use Restrictions:
Another significant adjustment is the restriction on repeated use of stratagems. Abilities that allowed the repeated use of stratagems have been curtailed, with only specific stratagems named in the ability being exempt from this rule.
This change prevents certain factions from gaining an undue advantage by repeatedly using powerful stratagems, ensuring a more balanced gameplay experience.
Changes to Grenades and Tank Shock:
The Grenade stratagem has been reworked to align with its intended narrative. Previously, players could use grenades while falling back or advancing, which didn’t fit the cinematic image of these weapons.
The new rules prevent the use of grenades in these situations, making their use more strategic and impactful.
Similarly, the Tank Shock stratagem has been adjusted. The number of dice rolled is now based on the unit’s toughness rather than the strength of its melee weapons. This change brings the stratagem back in line with its intended narrative, ensuring tanks use it to crush enemies under their treads, not just to hit harder in melee.
New Rules for Mortal and Devastating Wounds:
The rules for mortal and devastating wounds have been updated to address some balance issues. Mortal wounds caused by devastating wounds no longer spill over to multiple models, ensuring that these powerful abilities don’t wipe out entire squads with a single lucky roll.
This change makes defensive abilities that protect against mortal wounds more effective, ensuring that specialized protections remain relevant.
Warhammer 40k Munitorium Field Manual Points Updates Across Factions
One of the most eagerly anticipated aspects of any 10th Edition 40k Balance Dataslate is the updates on points. These adjustments can dramatically alter how armies are built and perform on the battlefield.
New Points Values for Key Units:
The latest Warhammer 40k update brings a range of points changes across various factions.
If you’re rocking Aeldari, Chaos Daemons, or Orks, congrats—your army just got cheaper and nastier. But if you’re rolling with Drukhari, Thousand Sons, or World Eaters, well… things just got a little pricier, so you might need to rethink those lists.
The update tweaks a lot of armies, but the next big shakeup won’t hit until late 2024 or early 2025. In the meantime, it’s time to adapt or get left in the dust!
Rationale Behind 40k Points Changes:
The rationale for these 40k points changes is to promote fairness and balance in the game. Units that were previously undercosted and thus overly popular have seen points increases to curb their prevalence and power.
Conversely, units that were less effective or underused have had their points reduced, making them more attractive choices for players.
One big change that screams “fair play” is the point hike for Drazhar and Incubi in the Drukhari faction. These guys were cutting through enemies like a hot knife through butter, making the battlefield look more like a Drukhari highlight reel. So, GW threw a few extra points their way to level the playing field.
Now, you’ll have to think twice before spamming them, but hey, balance is key—no more turning every skirmish into “Drazhar’s Greatest Hits”!
Similarly, the points reductions for certain underperforming units help them compete more effectively, adding diversity to army compositions.
40k Balance Dataslate 10th Edition: Comprehensive FAQs & Clarifications
The latest 10th Edition Balance Dataslate and Warhammer 40k rules commentary isn’t just about 40k points and rules changes; it also includes a wealth of FAQs and clarifications. These updates address common questions and ambiguities, ensuring that everyone is playing by the same rules and preventing disputes during games.
Key FAQs Addressed:
The FAQs in the June and January 40k Balance Dataslate cover a wide range of topics, from core rule interactions to specific unit abilities.
For example, there are clarifications on how stratagems interact with various abilities, ensuring that players understand the intended use of these tactical tools. This helps prevent misunderstandings and ensures that everyone is on the same page.
Clarifications on Specific Rules:
One of the most important aspects of the FAQs is the clarification of specific rules that were previously ambiguous or open to interpretation. For instance, the rules for embarking and disembarking from transports have been clarified, ensuring that players know exactly how these actions work and what effects they trigger.
Secret Missions got a big reality check—no more swooping in at the last minute with your super-mobile Aeldari or Necrons for an easy win. You’ve got to start thinking smart by turn three if you want those sweet Victory Points.
In Linchpin Mission, the days of stacking massive VPs in the final round are over. Now, the VP cap is 15, so if you’ve been turtling up, you’ll need to rethink that strategy!
Meanwhile, Storm Hostile Objective just got spicy. You can now score in round 1 if you’re going second, forcing players to make big decisions early on—plan your moves or go for the kill!
For those of you who like to hide your leaders behind meat shields, Marked for Death is here to ruin your day. Now, you’ve got to take out both the bodyguard and the leader—no more easy hiding!
As for Surge Moves, the FAQ threw in some solid clarifications. You can only use one per phase, no surging if you’re Battle-shocked, and if you’re already in close combat, you’re staying there.
No more fancy footwork while locked in combat, folks!
40k Balance Dataslate 10th Edition’s Impact on Gameplay & Meta
Competitive Play Implications:
In the cutthroat world of competitive gaming, even the tiniest tweaks can send shockwaves. The rule changes, faction-specific adjustments, and points updates will force players to switch up their strategies and army lineups from both the 40k January and Dataslate.
Take, for example, the new restrictions on Overwatch and the game-changing tweaks to Devastating Wounds. Players can’t rely on the old dominant tactics anymore and need to get creative in exploiting their opponents’ vulnerabilities.
These adjustments from the June and January 40k Dataslate are expected to shake up the competitive scene, creating a more diverse and lively meta. With no single faction or strategy calling the shots, tournaments will showcase a wider range of armies and playstyles.
This not only ramps up the excitement but also levels the playing field, giving every player a fair shot at the top tables.
Casual Play Considerations:
For casual players, the 40k Balance Dataslate and points changes (both from June and January) bring fresh excitement to their games. The adjustments help ensure that games are fair and enjoyable, preventing any one player from steamrolling their friends with an overpowered army.
The 40k points changes (and Balance Dataslate from June, January, and October), in particular, make it easier for casual players to build balanced and characterful lists without feeling penalized for their choices. The core rule changes also add new layers of strategy and tactics, making casual games more engaging and rewarding.
Whether you’re playing a quick skirmish on the kitchen table or a sprawling narrative campaign, these updates and points changes will enhance your Warhammer 40k games going forward.
Warhammer 40,000 10th Edition Balance Dataslate Guide: June 2024 Q3
This is your complete guide to all the latest updates in the Warhammer 40k Balance Dataslate that are transforming the battlefield this June (and January). These new rule adjustments aim to maintain excitement and balance in games of 40k headed into the fall of 2024.
What is the Warhammer 40k 10th Edition Balance Dataslate?
The last two 10th Edition 40k Balance Dataslates in January and June were like the universe’s way of keeping things fair. Every few months, the Warhammer Studio reviews tons of data from battles fought across kitchen tables and tournament halls alike. They then tweak points, adjust rules, and sometimes overhaul entire strategies to keep the game dynamic and engaging.
June’s update is packed with changes that are bound to shake things up. We’ve got core rules modifications, movement overhauls, and targeted balance updates for various factions. Both the June and January 40k Dataslates have done well with that and followed up by the points updates, core rule changes, new movement rules, and faction tweaks; there’s plenty to see.
Maybe just as important as the points, Games Workshop said they will now only be doing 40k Balance Dataslate updates every other quarter (initially, they stated every quarter), and at the same time, they confirmed the points changes will be every quarter.
However, to make things even more muddled, they mentioned that a new Balance Dataslate would be coming “later this year,” which seems to indicate a potential December 2024 release, perhaps to be legal for events like LVO 2025.
Our next update later this year (2024) will bring a Balance Dataslate alongside an updated Munitorum Field Manual, as well as any further additions that may be needed to the FAQ and Errata
Updated 10th Edition Balance Dataslate Movement Rules Changes: August 2024
Because of some unusual geometry, Games Workshop is now making additional changes to the June 40k Balance Dataslate updates (much more than in January’s) to prevent situations where some models could get “free” movement by pivoting.
Overview of New Rule Changes
The Warhammer 40k used at the recent Tacoma Open will be in effect for everyone on August 1st, 2024. You’ll want to familiarize yourself with these updates, as all vehicle models on round bases wider than 32mm with a flying stem or hover stand now have a pivot value of two inches.
This means every time these models pivot, they lose two inches of movement (this needed to be implemented as people were abusing the June 2024 40k Dataslate). It’s a small tweak but one that could have a big impact on your strategy.
Official first at the Tacoma Open
These rules, formulated with the Warhammer 40k rules studio, are official for the Tacoma Open, and now the changes are part of a general FAQ or errata for the broader Warhammer 40k universe.
There is also a small update to the designer’s commentary, along with highlighted areas of the previous version changes, to help keep things tidy for everyone. So be sure to take a closer look at the updated document available here.
One Example of the Issue
This update was totally necessary, and here’s the perfect example of why: a hilarious meme about a Necron Monolith deep strike that’s making the rounds in TTS.
Impact of The New Flying Model Rules Changes
The new Warhammer 40k rule changes, which took effect on August 1st, 2024, promise to make the game more streamlined and strategic. With simplified movement rules and the introduction of pivot values, navigating the battlefield becomes more predictable and fair.
These changes, first official for the Tacoma Open, now set a precedent for future tournaments and casual games alike. With a little luck, this should lead to a more fluid and enjoyable Warhammer 40k experience as these changes take hold.
Major Core Rules Changes in Warhammer 40,000
The June 2024 10th Edition Balance Dataslate (not so much the January one) brings some game-changing updates to the core rules of Warhammer 40k. These changes are designed to refine gameplay, making it more strategic and balanced. Let’s break down the most significant modifications.
Indirect Fire Weapons
First up, Indirect Fire Weapons always miss on a 1-3. Previously, indirect fire could be a bit too reliable, allowing artillery units to dominate from the safety of the backline.
Now, these weapons always miss on a roll of one, two, or three. This flat 50/50 chance adds a new layer of unpredictability and strategy, making indirect fire a bit more of a gamble.
No More Overwatch For Titanic Units
Next, Titanic Units and Overwatch Restrictions. Titanic units can no longer fire Overwatch, and they don’t have line of sight through ruins unless they are partially within them.
This change in the June 40k Dataslate levels the playing field, preventing these massive units from dominating every engagement with ease. It forces players to think more strategically about positioning and movement.
Movement Pivots
New Movement Pivot Values are another big update. Units now have a “pivot value” that affects their movement. This is zero for most units, but it is two inches for monsters and vehicles.
This means every pivot costs these larger units two inches of movement. This simplification makes movement rules clearer and prevents players from gaining unintended advantages through tricky maneuvers.
Tank Shock Stratagem
The Tank Shock Stratagem Nerf is a welcome change. Previously, this stratagem allowed high-strength melee units to inflict devastating mortal wounds easily.
Now, the number of dice rolled is based on the unit’s toughness, not the weapon’s strength, and there are no bonus dice for higher strength. This balances the stratagem, making it less overpowered.
Insane Bravery
Insane Bravery usage limitation is another important update. This stratagem can now only be used once per battle and must be used before a unit takes a battle-shock test. This prevents players from relying too heavily on this stratagem to save their units in critical moments, adding more depth and strategy to gameplay.
Devastating Wounds
Finally, there’s a subtle but significant change to Devastating Wounds. Mortal wounds caused by these abilities can no longer spill over to more than one model.
This prevents devastating abilities from wiping out entire squads with a single lucky roll, ensuring that each model’s survivability is more consistent.
Simplified Movement Rules Are a Game-Changer
Previously, moving models could be a bit of a headache, especially with larger units or those with overhanging parts. Now, movement is all about straight lines and pivots.
No more tricky measurements or arguments about whether a model fits through a gap- if the base fits, it moves through. Movement is the heart of strategy in Warhammer 40,000, and the latest 10th edition Balance Dataslate brings some major changes to how units move on the battlefield.
These updates simplify the rules, making gameplay smoother and more intuitive. Let’s break down the key changes.
New Pivot Value System
Units now have a pivot value that determines how much movement is required to turn. For most models, this value is zero, meaning they can pivot freely.
However, for monsters and vehicles (excluding aircraft) that aren’t on round bases, the pivot value is two inches.
This means every pivot during movement costs these units two inches. This new rule simplifies movement calculations and ensures consistency in how units navigate the battlefield.
Impact on Vehicles and Monsters:
This change is particularly significant for large models like tanks and monstrous creatures. Previously, navigating tight spaces or turning to face an enemy could lead to complex calculations and disputes.
With the pivot value system, movement becomes more predictable and fair.
For example, a tank with a pivot value of two inches will have to plan its turns carefully to avoid losing too much movement, adding a layer of strategy to its maneuvering.
Specific Unit Base Changes
There are some interesting edge cases with the new pivot rules. For example, round-based vehicles can pivot without losing any movement, which can lead to some unintended advantages.
This issue is addressed in the Pariah Nexus Tournament Companion, which modifies certain units’ rules to prevent the pivot value’s exploitation.
This ensures a level playing field and minimizes potential for rule-bending. For example, some round-based vehicles like the Necron Monolith or Drukhari Raiders could previously gain unintended movement advantages through pivoting.
The companion guide adjusts these rules to maintain fairness.
Adjustments for Terrain and Battlefield Edges:
Another significant change is how models interact with terrain and the edges of the battlefield. Models can no longer overhang the battlefield edge with their base at any point during movement.
However, overhanging parts of the model, like wings or weapons, can extend beyond the battlefield edge, but they cannot be used to draw line of sight.
This rule ensures that all movement and positioning are realistic and within the boundaries of the playing area.
Impact of The Warhammer 40k Balance Dataslate 10th Edition
In conclusion, the latest 40k Balance Dataslate and Munitorum Field Manual points change for 2024 have significantly changed Warhammer 40k. With updates to points, faction rules, and core rules commentary, nearly all the factions in the game have been affected.
While some armies at the top of the meta have received significant NERFs, underperforming armies have also been buffed. With these changes in place, the game has been revamped again, and players must adapt their strategies accordingly.
The 40k Balance Dataslate 10th Edition guarantees to keep things exciting (with points changes), balanced, and enjoyable, and your involvement is key to its success. You can download all the changes here.
- Best Warhammer 40k Armies Now
- Free GW Warhammer 40k App Army Builder for 10th Edition
- 40k Balance Dataslate Updates Warhammer 10th Edition
- 10th Edition Warhammer 40k Rules FAQ & Rules Commentary
- Full 10th Edition Warhammer 40k Core Rules Book
- Free PDF Download for 10th Edition Warhammer 40k USR Rules
What do you think about all the latest rules and points changes in the Warhammer 40k June and January Balance Dataslate?
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!
