A massive guide to the strategic depth of the World Eaters in Warhammer 40k; learn their playstyles, how to yell Blood for the Blood God (important), and how to build a competitive army.
Updated December 17th, 2024, by Rob Baer with the latest new 40k rules information and links to relevant content.
The World Eaters are an unstoppable force of raw aggression in Warhammer 40k, perfect for players who thrive on fast, close-combat gameplay. In this guide, you’ll get a detailed breakdown of their playstyles, standout units like Khorne Berserkers and Eightbound, and tips on building a competitive army list that dominates the battlefield.
Whether you’re preparing for casual games or tournament-level matches, this guide delivers everything you need to harness the power of Khorne and shout “Blood for the Blood God!” as you charge into battle. And who knows, maybe we’ll get to see this blood thirsty playstyle represented in the upcoming Cavill and Amazon series!
Mastering World Eaters in Warhammer 40k: Strategies, Tactics, and Key Tips
In Warhammer 40k, few factions embody raw aggression and brutality quite like the World Eaters (not the fancy stuff like the Emperor’s Children). Known for their frenzied combat style and relentless focus on melee dominance, this faction strikes terror into opponents while shouting their infamous battle cry, “Blood for the Blood God!”. Whether you’re new to the faction or looking to refine your gameplay, understanding the strategies and tactics behind the World Eaters can be the key to leading them to victory.
World Eaters Strategies and Playstyles
The World Eaters playstyle thrives on one core principle: aggression. These warriors are built for relentless offense, prioritizing close combat over shooting. To succeed with the World Eaters, you’ll need to master a straightforward, yet deadly approach to the game—close the distance quickly, engage your enemies in melee, and unleash devastating attacks.
World Eaters armies work best when played at full speed. They excel when the battlefront is chaotic, forcing opponents into constant combat. However, this high-risk, high-reward style of play requires careful positioning and timing to maximize their strengths.
Offensive Tactics: Blood for the Blood God
At the heart of the World Eaters’ strategy lies their unmatched offensive potential. Units like Khorne Berzerkers and Eightbound excel in melee, cutting down foes with brutal efficiency. The key to their success is to engage as quickly as possible.
- Maximize Movement: Use abilities like Advance and Charge to cover ground quickly. Transport options, such as Rhinos or Land Raiders, are vital for delivering your most dangerous units into combat.
- Combat Efficiency: Focus on units that benefit from high volume attacks. Khorne Berzerkers can make quick work of infantry, while Eightbound take on heavier foes.
- Objective Denial: While World Eaters may lack staying power on objectives, their ability to clear enemy units can create openings for claiming key battlefield positions.
With their Blood Tithe mechanic, losses on both sides fuel the World Eaters’ momentum. Use these points to unleash buffs like extra movement, improved melee damage, or even resurrecting fallen units.
Defensive Considerations
Defense is not the World Eaters’ strong suit, but that doesn’t mean they’re helpless. Instead of focusing on soaking damage, your goal should be mitigating losses while advancing.
- Use Cover Smartly: Move through terrain to minimize incoming fire until you can charge into combat.
- Target Priority: Neutralize enemy firepower quickly. Fast units like Raptors or Maulerfiends can tie up or destroy long-range threats early.
- Keep the Pressure On: A relentless offensive keeps opponents on the defensive, limiting their ability to exploit your vulnerabilities.
While not a traditional defensive strategy, this approach keeps the focus on what the World Eaters do best—wreaking havoc.
Effective Use of Vehicles
Vehicles play an essential role in supporting World Eaters’ armies. They provide both mobility and firepower, compensating for some of the faction’s limitations.
- Rhinos: Cheap and reliable, Rhinos are excellent for delivering Khorne Berzerkers to the front line quickly and safely.
- Land Raiders: Though expensive, these tanks provide both transport and heavy firepower. Use them to soften up tougher targets before charging in.
- Daemon Engines: Units like the Maulerfiend and Lord of Skulls deliver speed, durability, and melee punch, making them ideal for overwhelming enemy defenses.
By combining fast-moving vehicles with deadly melee units, you can create a well-rounded force that keeps your opponent guessing.
World Eaters 40k Army Guide: Units, Characters, and Khorne’s Fury
The World Eaters faction in Warhammer 40k is the embodiment of relentless combat and pure destruction. Serving the Chaos God Khorne, they are driven by bloodlust and thrive in brutal melee battles. With iconic units like Khorne Berserkers and major characters such as Angron and Khârn the Betrayer, this army offers some of the most aggressive gameplay on the tabletop. If you’re looking to channel the power of Khorne, understanding their army composition and key units is essential.
Army Composition and Units
The World Eaters army revolves around one goal: closing the distance and crushing enemies in melee combat. Their roster is built for speed, power, and unrelenting assault. Unlike many other factions in Warhammer 40k, World Eaters don’t rely heavily on ranged attacks. Instead, they excel at overwhelming their enemies through sheer numbers of attacks and brutal close combat efficiency.
World Eaters armies often consist of:
- Core Melee Units: Like Khorne Berserkers, who are unmatched in close-quarters combat.
- Elite Assault Units: The Eightbound Warriors bring added durability and raw power.
- Supporting Vehicles: Transport options like Rhinos ensure your forces get into combat quickly.
- Major Characters: Named characters like Angron and Khârn add devastating power and leadership.
Signature Units of World Eaters 40k
Khorne Berserkers
The backbone of any World Eaters force, Khorne Berserkers are the ultimate melee infantry. Armed with chainaxes and driven by rage, these warriors unleash a storm of attacks capable of shredding through enemy units. Their ability to charge into combat and tear apart opposing forces makes them invaluable. When paired with transports like Rhinos, Berserkers can close the gap quickly and get into battle where they belong.
Why they’re important:
- High volume of melee attacks.
- Exceptional value for their points cost.
- Can overwhelm enemy infantry and lighter units with ease.
Eightbound Warriors
If Khorne Berserkers represent frenzied combat, the Eightbound take it a step further. These elite warriors are possessed by daemons of Khorne, granting them incredible strength, durability, and speed. Eightbound Warriors are perfect for tearing through elite enemy units and vehicles. They hit hard, move quickly, and can handle threats that Berserkers may struggle with.
Key strengths:
- Durable with strong defensive stats.
- Excellent against heavy infantry and vehicles.
- Faster and more versatile than standard melee units.
Major Characters of the World Eaters
Angron
The Primarch of the World Eaters, Angron is a force of nature on the battlefield. His unmatched combat skills and raw power make him one of the most terrifying characters in Warhammer 40k. Angron not only leads the charge but also buffs nearby units, boosting their ability to destroy anything in their path.
Highlights:
- Unrivaled melee damage output.
- Blood Tithe mechanics allow him to be revived, keeping him in the fight.
- Inspires nearby World Eaters to fight harder and faster.
Khârn the Betrayer
No discussion of the World Eaters is complete without mentioning Khârn the Betrayer. Khârn is one of the most iconic characters in Warhammer 40k lore, known for his bloodthirsty nature and unpredictable behavior. On the tabletop, Khârn is a melee powerhouse, capable of cutting down entire squads with his devastating attacks. While his “friendly fire” tendencies can be a risk, his sheer power more than makes up for it.
Why he stands out:
- High melee damage for a low cost.
- A great choice for leading Khorne Berserkers into combat.
- Adds flavor and chaos to any World Eaters army.
Building a World Eaters Army in Warhammer 40k: Tips, Units, and Army Lists
The World Eaters are one of the most aggressive and iconic factions in Warhammer 40k, bringing unrelenting close combat and chaos to the tabletop. Known for their devotion to Khorne and battle cry “Blood for the Blood God!”, this army thrives on speed, melee power, and pure destruction. If you’re ready to start building your own World Eaters force, this guide will help you take the first steps, expand strategically, and shape a deadly army list that crushes opponents.
To start playing them, you will need a Codex book (or index) or access to a reference site like Wahapedia, or the official Warhammer 40k army builder app (subscription required for most up-to-date rules.)
Starting Out: Key Units to Begin With
When building a World Eaters army, it’s best to start with the basics—reliable units that showcase the faction’s strengths.
- Khorne Berserkers
- These warriors are the heart of any World Eaters army. With their unmatched volume of melee attacks, Berserkers are built to shred enemy infantry. Their chainaxes and close combat weapons make them a consistent threat.
- Why start with them: They’re points-efficient, easy to learn, and hit hard in melee.
- Rhinos
- A simple yet essential transport option, Rhinos get your Berserkers into combat quickly. Speed is everything for World Eaters, and Rhinos ensure your core units don’t get shot off the board before they can charge.
- Why start with them: They’re cheap, durable, and critical for delivering infantry where they need to be.
- Eightbound
- For a little more punch, the Eightbound are elite warriors possessed by Khorne’s daemons. They bring mobility, durability, and the ability to take down tougher enemy units.
- Why start with them: They’re fast, deadly, and serve as a strong counter to elite or armored enemies.
With just these three units—Khorne Berserkers, a Rhino, and some Eightbound—you can put together a strong starting force that focuses on speed and melee power.
Expansion Recommendations
Once you’ve mastered the basics, it’s time to expand your army and add variety to your gameplay. Here are the best options for growing your World Eaters force:
- Angron
- Angron, the Primarch of the World Eaters, is an unstoppable force on the battlefield. He brings unmatched melee damage and buffs nearby units with his presence. Plus, his Blood Tithe mechanic allows him to return to the game after being slain.
- Khârn the Betrayer
- For a smaller investment, Khârn is an incredible melee character who pairs perfectly with Khorne Berserkers. He’s a great option for leading a mid-sized force and brings loads of flavor to the tabletop.
- Daemon Engines
- Units like Maulerfiends and Lord of Skulls provide additional durability and firepower, complementing the melee focus of your army. These models can tie up enemy firepower or take on vehicles and monsters.
- Land Raiders
- As a transport option with serious firepower, Land Raiders can deliver units like Berserkers while softening up enemy targets. They add survivability to your army and force opponents to deal with them.
Sample Army Lists
Here are two simple lists to get you started at different points levels.
1,000 Points – Starter Force:
- 1x Khârn the Betrayer
- 10x Khorne Berserkers
- 10x Khorne Berserkers
- 2x Rhinos
- 3x Eightbound
This list delivers fast, hard-hitting combat while sticking to core World Eaters units. It’s easy to play and emphasizes their aggressive style.
2,000 Points – Expanded Army:
- 1x Angron, Daemon Primarch of Khorne
- 1x Khârn the Betrayer
- 20x Khorne Berserkers (split into squads of 10)
- 2x Rhinos
- 6x Eightbound
- 1x Maulerfiend
- 1x Land Raider
This larger list features Angron as a centerpiece, supported by Berserkers, Eightbound, and vehicles. It’s balanced for speed, durability, and overwhelming offense. As always though, the points are changing, so check out the latest Field Munitorum for the updates!
World Eaters 40k: A Brutal History of Chaos and Bloodshed
The World Eaters stand as one of the most iconic and terrifying forces in Warhammer 40k. Devoted entirely to Khorne, the Chaos God of blood and slaughter, they represent relentless brutality and carnage on the battlefield. From their noble beginnings during the Great Crusade to their violent transformation in the Horus Heresy, the story of the World Eaters is one of corruption, chaos, and unending war.
World Eaters’ Position in Warhammer 40k
Among the countless factions in Warhammer 40k, the World Eaters hold a unique position as the embodiment of aggression and melee combat. While other armies may rely on strategy, ranged firepower, or psychic abilities, the World Eaters focus purely on close-quarters destruction. Their infamous battle cry, “Blood for the Blood God!”, echoes across battlefields as they charge headlong into enemy lines, wielding chainaxes and unrelenting fury.
Unlike some of the other Chaos legions, the World Eaters fully embrace their chaotic nature. They no longer seek conquest or empire—they fight simply to spill blood and honor their dark patron, Khorne.
Origins in the Great Crusade
The story of the World Eaters begins during the Great Crusade, when they were known as the War Hounds. The War Hounds were a loyalist Space Marine Legion, famed for their ruthless efficiency and unrelenting pursuit of the Emperor’s goals. However, everything changed when their Primarch, Angron, was found.
Angron’s backstory is tragic and brutal. Before his discovery, he was forced into a life of slavery as a gladiator on the planet Nuceria. Implantation of the Butcher’s Nails—a form of neuro-implant—turned him into a berserk killing machine. When the Emperor retrieved Angron, he was furious, resentful, and mentally scarred. The Butcher’s Nails would soon become central to the downfall of his Legion.
Under Angron’s leadership, the War Hounds were renamed the World Eaters and became infamous for their uncontrollable bloodlust. Angron spread the use of the Butcher’s Nails among his Legion, driving his warriors into a permanent state of rage, making them deadly in combat but unstable and uncontrollable.
Transformation During the Horus Heresy
During the Horus Heresy, the World Eaters fully turned to Chaos, siding with the traitorous Warmaster, Horus. Angron and his Legion gave in entirely to Khorne, abandoning any semblance of control or loyalty to the Emperor.
The Heresy was the turning point that cemented the World Eaters’ descent into madness. They no longer fought for honor or victory but to slaughter and collect skulls for the Blood God. Their use of the Butcher’s Nails escalated, reducing them to bloodthirsty, rage-fueled killers.
This transformation turned the World Eaters into one of the most feared forces in the galaxy. From the Siege of Terra to countless battles across the stars, their loyalty to Khorne became absolute.
Post-Heresy Developments
Following the defeat of Horus and the end of the Heresy, the World Eaters fractured into warbands, spreading chaos across the galaxy. Without the structure of a unified Legion, these warbands wage endless war in Khorne’s name, spilling blood on countless worlds.
Angron himself ascended to daemonhood, becoming a Daemon Primarch of Khorne, leading his forces with unmatched fury. His return in modern Warhammer 40k lore marks a terrifying resurgence of the World Eaters’ might.
Despite their fragmented state, the World Eaters remain one of the most dangerous factions in the galaxy. Their singular focus on bloodshed and their fanatical devotion to Khorne ensure that their path of destruction never ceases.
World Eaters 40k: Competitive Play, FAQs, and Final Thoughts
The World Eaters faction in Warhammer 40k has carved out a unique identity as a brutal, melee-focused force that thrives on chaos and bloodshed. Shouting “Blood for the Blood God!”, they charge into battle with unmatched fury. But how do they perform in competitive play, and what should you know before commanding them on the tabletop? Let’s break it down.
World Eaters’ Place in Competitive Play
The World Eaters are built for one thing: overwhelming offense in close combat. In the competitive scene, this clear focus makes them both a dangerous threat and a challenging army to master.
Strengths in Competitive Play:
- Unmatched Melee Power: Units like Khorne Berserkers and Eightbound can wipe entire squads off the board in one charge. Their ability to pile on attacks and cause massive damage sets them apart.
- Speed and Aggression: The World Eaters excel at reaching the enemy quickly. Units transported in Rhinos or deep striking Eightbound ensure pressure starts early and doesn’t let up.
- Blood Tithe Buffs: The Blood Tithe mechanic rewards you for casualties (friend or foe) by giving powerful in-game bonuses, such as improved movement, extra attacks, or reviving Angron.
Weaknesses in Competitive Play:
- Limited Shooting: The lack of ranged firepower can put World Eaters at a disadvantage against armies that focus on holding distance. If your units fail to reach combat, they won’t last long under heavy fire.
- Durability Issues: While they hit hard, many units lack strong defensive capabilities. Positioning and speed are key to ensuring your troops survive long enough to charge.
In tournaments, the World Eaters excel in missions where aggressive play and board control win games. To get the most out of them, prioritize movement, take advantage of the Blood Tithe, and pick fights you know you can win.
FAQs: World Eaters in Warhammer 40k
Q: Are World Eaters good for new players?
A: Absolutely! World Eaters have a simple and direct playstyle that’s easy to understand: get into combat and fight. They’re great for players who want straightforward, fast-paced games.
Q: What are the must-have units for a World Eaters army?
A: Khorne Berserkers are the core of any World Eaters army, providing unmatched melee damage for their points cost. Eightbound add durability and power for heavier fights, while Angron is a centerpiece unit that delivers devastating combat abilities.
Q: How do World Eaters handle ranged armies?
A: Speed and transports like Rhinos are critical. Use terrain to minimize damage as you close the gap, and target enemy units that rely on ranged attacks early. The Blood Tithe mechanic also helps you recover from losses as you advance.
Q: Is Angron worth including in competitive games?
A: Angron is a powerhouse and a huge threat, but his high points cost can be risky. In larger games or casual play, he’s incredibly fun and effective, but in tournaments, his inclusion depends on your strategy.
Final Thoughts and Recommendations
The World Eaters are a fantastic faction for players who love fast-paced, aggressive gameplay. Their melee dominance and thematic focus on Khorne make them one of the most exciting armies to command in Warhammer 40k. While they require careful movement and positioning to overcome their lack of shooting, their sheer damage output and Blood Tithe rewards make them a force to be reckoned with.
For competitive players, the World Eaters excel in missions that reward board control and fast assaults. Units like Khorne Berserkers and Eightbound are your bread and butter, while transports and daemon engines provide the mobility and durability you need to close the distance. Angron, while costly, can be the key to breaking an opponent’s army with his brutal power.
In the end, the World Eaters are all about unleashing chaos and honoring Khorne on the battlefield. If you love the sound of chainaxes tearing through armor and a relentless focus on combat, then the World Eaters are the army for you.
“Blood for the Blood God!”
Warhammer 40k Factions Explained: A Complete Guide to Every Army
What do you think about the World Eaters in Warhammer 40k? Do you like the playstyle, Khorne Berzerkers, 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!
