Unleash the angels with our ultimate guide to the new Blood Angels codex in 10th Edition Warhammer 40k: how to play, rules, tips, strategies, and review!
You know, there’s nothing quite like watching a bunch of noble, rage-fueled space vampires fly across the battlefield, slicing and dicing with the precision of a surgeon who’s had one too many cups of caffeine. Welcome to the world of the Blood Angels in Warhammer 40k—a chapter defined by equal parts grace and fury and a whole lot of cool red armor.
Warhammer 40k: New Blood Angels Codex Review Army Guide, How to Play, & Rule
Click any of the links below to jump to the info you need the most, or just dig in from the beginning.
- Introduction to the Blood Angels 10th Edition Codex How to Play & Review
- How to Play Blood Angels in Warhammer 40k
- Blood Angels Codex Rules Breakdown
- Key Units in the Blood Angels Codex
- Blood Angels Tactics and Strategies for 10th Edition
- Blood Angels Codex 40k Rules Updates
- Community Reactions to Blood Angels 10th Edition Codex
Introduction to the New Blood Angels Codex, How to Play, & Review
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What’s New in the Blood Angels Codex for 10th Edition
For those keeping an eye on the 41st millennium, the new Blood Angels Codex for 10th Edition brings a host of changes that would make even the Black Rage pale in comparison. In this latest installment, our favorite vampire space marines have been given a fresh batch of detachment rules, character updates, and a few painful farewells to beloved units. Gone are the days of fielding Librarian Dreadnoughts like they were going out of style (spoiler: they did), but the new Death Company and Sanguinary Guard detachments are ready to tear into your opponents with unrelenting fury.
From tweaks to unit datasheets to refined abilities that push the Blood Angels further into their aggressive melee identity, this codex has everything a 40k fan could want. Want to know why Mephiston is now even more terrifying than ever? Or how Commander Dante can still give your army that strategic edge? It’s all here in the 10th Edition update, where the Red Thirst has never been more deadly.
Overview of Blood Angels Lore and Narrative
The Blood Angels are a chapter with a tragic legacy. Descendants of the noble Primarch Sanguinius, these warriors are cursed with the Black Rage and Red Thirst, a genetic flaw that drives them to madness on the battlefield. Their constant struggle between noble grace and unbridled fury is what makes them one of the most unique chapters in the Imperium of Man.
Their homeworld of Baal lies in the grim darkness of the far future, scarred by radiation and home to bloodthirsty mutants. It’s a fitting environment for a chapter that exists on the razor’s edge of self-destruction. As they battle their foes, the Blood Angels also battle their inner demons, haunted by visions of their Primarch’s heroic last stand against Horus during the Horus Heresy.
Whether you’re here for the tragic lore or the brutal gameplay, the Blood Angels represent a fascinating dichotomy of beauty and savagery.
Why the Blood Angels Codex is Important in Warhammer 40k
Blood Angels have long held a special place in Warhammer 40k, not just because they have a cool backstory (they do) but because their unique mechanics have consistently provided a blend of elegance and destruction. The new 10th Edition Codex refines this further, putting Blood Angels back at the top of their game.
Their new codex isn’t just another rules update; it’s a reflection of their shifting place within the meta. With options for highly mobile, hard-hitting units and game-changing stratagems, this codex is vital for players looking to maximize the chapter’s strengths in melee combat while navigating the delicate balance between aggression and strategy.
How to Play Blood Angels in Warhammer 40k
Understanding the Blood Angels Playstyle: Aggressive Close Combat
Blood Angels are all about one thing: getting up close and personal. If you enjoy smashing through the enemy with blades, claws, and the occasional giant fist, this is the army for you. The hallmark of Blood Angels gameplay is their fast, hard-hitting assaults, combining speed with devastating melee power.
The Red Thirst ability, which gives them a bonus on charges, perfectly encapsulates the Blood Angels’ aggressive nature. It encourages players to throw their units into the fray at every opportunity, turning ordinary Space Marines into absolute monsters in close combat.
Of course, this playstyle has its risks. If your assault fails, you’re left exposed and potentially vulnerable. Blood Angels players must balance their thirst for blood with the tactical awareness to time their charges correctly.
Key Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths:
- Brutal in melee: Few armies can match the Blood Angels in hand-to-hand combat, especially once they’ve charged into battle with their Red Thirst-fueled attacks.
- Speed: Units like Jump Pack-equipped Sanguinary Guard and Death Company Marines give Blood Angels incredible mobility, letting them close the gap with the enemy in no time.
- Resilience: With characters like Mephiston or Dante leading the charge, Blood Angels can shrug off blows and keep fighting long after other units would have fallen.
Weaknesses:
- Reliance on melee: If a Blood Angels army fails to engage in close combat early, they can struggle against more shooty armies, leaving them vulnerable at range.
- High-risk strategies: The aggressive playstyle often means committing your best units into combat, which can leave you open to counter-attacks if things go wrong.
Synergies Between Units and Detachments
Blood Angels are more than the sum of their parts, and this is where the synergy between units and detachments really shines. Units like the Sanguinary Guard and Death Company benefit hugely from the presence of characters like Dante, Lemartes, or Astorath. These heroes can buff nearby units with powerful auras, turning already dangerous squads into near-unstoppable forces of nature.
For instance, placing Dante alongside a unit of Sanguinary Guard can give them additional attacks and boosts to their survivability. On the other hand, the Death Company becomes an even bigger threat with the right Chaplain to keep them from succumbing entirely to the Black Rage.
Choosing the right detachment can further enhance these synergies, allowing players to focus on a specific aspect of the Blood Angels’ playstyle, whether it’s maximizing raw power or refining their hit-and-run tactics.
Adapting to the New Rules for 10th Edition
In 10th Edition, Blood Angels players have to think smarter. While their melee-focused playstyle is still at the forefront, the new detachment rules allow for greater flexibility. Now, instead of being pigeonholed into one strategy, players can choose between specialized detachments that offer unique bonuses to fit different playstyles.
For example, the Sanguinary Guard detachment gives bonuses to high-mobility, elite units that can strike with precision, while the Death Company detachment leans into the more unhinged side of the Blood Angels, rewarding all-out aggression and relentless combat. This new flexibility allows for more creativity in list-building and adapting to different opponents.
How to Play: Blood Angels Stratagems and When to Use Them
Blood Angels players have access to some of the most aggressive stratagems in Warhammer 40k. Knowing when to trigger these abilities can make or break a game.
For instance, using “Forlorn Fury” allows Death Company units to move before the game begins, positioning them for an early, devastating charge. Similarly, “Upon Wings of Fire” lets your Jump Pack units redeploy mid-game, giving you the tactical flexibility to reposition key units when you need them most.
Timing is key with Blood Angels stratagems. Use them too early, and you might burn out before the battle’s done. Too late, and you may miss your window to break the enemy’s back in one fell swoop.
Blood Angels Codex Rules Breakdown
When it comes to rules, the Blood Angels 10th Edition Codex doesn’t just bring a few tweaks – it redefines how these iconic, rage-fueled space vampires fight in the grim dark future. At the heart of it all is a solid focus on aggressive, melee-heavy gameplay that’s both fast and furious. If you’re a fan of warriors in ornate red armor tearing across the battlefield to bring divine wrath upon their foes, this codex is for you.
Let’s break it down, piece by piece, starting with the core rules and faction abilities that define the Blood Angels’ playstyle in Warhammer 40k.
Sons of Sanguinius: Key Rule for Blood Angels
Every Blood Angels player knows that the Sons of Sanguinius rule is where the magic (or should we say bloodbath) begins. This rule perfectly encapsulates the chapter’s identity: aggression, speed, and downright ferocity in close combat. The Sons of Sanguinius rule grants Blood Angels units +1 to their wound rolls when they charge, get charged, or heroically intervene. In other words, Blood Angels are born to strike first, strike hard, and strike true.
Imagine your army zooming across the battlefield like avenging angels, landing precise hits that will leave your enemies reeling. It’s not just about damage – it’s about doing maximum damage when it counts. This rule means you don’t have to second-guess a charge; once your units are in, they hit with the strength of Sanguinius himself.
How to Play: Oath of Moment and Its Impact on Blood Angels
“Oath of Moment” might sound like something straight out of a space opera (which, let’s be real, it kind of is), but it’s actually a powerful rule inherited from the main Space Marine Codex. Blood Angels also benefit from this faction-wide ability, which allows you to pick a target each turn that your entire army gains re-rolls against for hits and wounds.
For Blood Angels, this rule is a game-changer. You already excel in close combat, but Oath of Moment lets you focus all your might on one crucial enemy, ensuring that when the Blood Angels get their hands dirty, they get the job done right. Coupled with the Sons of Sanguinius rule, it’s the perfect formula for obliterating key threats before they have a chance to respond.
Blood Angels Detachments in 10th Edition
Now, where things really get spicy are the detachments. The 10th Edition Codex offers a variety of Blood Angels detachments, each with its own flavor of warfare. Whether you want to lean into the fury of the Black Rage or opt for the calculated strikes of the Sanguinary Guard, there’s something here for every Blood Angels player.
Death Company Detachment – Harnessing the Black Rage
Let’s talk about the Death Company – the poor souls who’ve fully succumbed to the Black Rage, seeing visions of Sanguinius’ final moments. This detachment embodies unrestrained fury. Death Company units in this detachment hit harder, fight longer, and gain buffs when they charge into combat.
But beware – with all that power comes a high-risk, high-reward playstyle. They will die, but they will die gloriously.
Sanguinary Guard Detachment – Precision and Power
For those looking for a more refined approach, the Sanguinary Guard detachment is your golden ticket (literally). These angelic warriors, adorned in their gilded armor, bring elegance and devastation in equal measure.
With enhanced precision and survivability, the Sanguinary Guard can carve through enemy elites with surgical strikes, making them ideal for taking out high-value targets while looking good doing it.
Liberator Assault Group – Mobility and Shock Tactics
If mobility is your game, then the Liberator Assault Group is the detachment you want. This detachment specializes in hit-and-run tactics, combining speed with relentless assault.
With units that can advance and charge, and stratagems that allow them to dart across the battlefield, the Liberator Assault Group is for players who like to keep their opponent guessing. Think of them as your perfect blend of versatility and aggression.
Key Units in the Blood Angels Codex
The Blood Angels 10th Edition Codex brings exciting updates to some of the most iconic characters and units in Warhammer 40k. From the psychic powerhouse Mephiston to the relentless Death Company, this codex reshapes how the Blood Angels tear through their enemies. Let’s dive into how these units have evolved in 10th Edition.
How to Play Blood Angles: Character Overviews: How They’ve Changed in 10th Edition
The heroes (and anti-heroes) of the Blood Angels are what set them apart. With each iteration of the codex, these characters become even more lethal, and 10th Edition is no different. Here’s how the heavyweights of the Blood Angels roster have been updated.
Mephiston: The Chief Librarian’s New Powers
Mephiston, also known as the Lord of Death, has always been a force to be reckoned with. In 10th Edition, however, he’s gone from dangerous to downright terrifying. His psychic abilities have been supercharged, letting him control the battlefield in new and creative ways. He can now prevent enemies from falling back, keeping them locked in combat – perfect for a Blood Angels army that thrives on melee combat. Add in a 4+ Feel No Pain and a 5+ invulnerable save, and you’ve got a character that’s as tough as he is deadly.
But here’s the kicker – Mephiston can no longer lead units. Some may lament the loss of his leadership role, but let’s be real: when you’re a walking psychic blender, who needs an entourage?
Commander Dante: The Blood Angels Chapter Master
Commander Dante is not just a hero of the Blood Angels, he’s a living legend in the Imperium. And in 10th Edition, he’s stronger than ever. Dante’s stats have been beefed up, with more attacks and better survivability. His Axe Mortalis now hits at Strength 8, giving him a serious punch in combat.
One of Dante’s new tricks is his ability to give +1 to advance and charge rolls to his unit. This little bonus might not seem like much, but it’s the difference between hitting your opponent like a freight train or getting stuck out in the open, waiting to be shot to pieces.
Astorath & Lemartes: Leading the Death Company
Astorath and Lemartes are back to lead the Blood Angels’ most tragic warriors: the Death Company. Astorath, with his Executioner’s Axe, has become even more dangerous in melee combat, while his ability to grant devastating wounds to his unit on a charge makes him an essential part of any Death Company detachment.
Lemartes, on the other hand, hasn’t changed much – but that’s because he was already awesome. He still buffs Death Company Marines, letting them shrug off damage and hit harder, while his personal damage output remains solid.
Blood Angels Units in Focus
Now, let’s talk about the regular units. Blood Angels aren’t just about the named characters – their core units are just as important in executing the brutal close-combat strategies the chapter is known for.
Death Company Marines
Death Company Marines have always been a staple of any Blood Angels army, and in 10th Edition, they’re even deadlier. They can hit harder and faster than almost any other unit, thanks to their enhanced stats and special rules that reflect their uncontrollable rage. When paired with a Chaplain, they can dish out insane amounts of damage, especially when they get bonuses for charging.
The downside? They’re still as fragile as ever. Their fury might get them into battle, but once there, they’ll be targeted hard. Still, for the carnage they can cause, it’s worth the sacrifice.
Sanguinary Guard
Sanguinary Guard are the golden boys of the Blood Angels, both figuratively and literally. These elite warriors have always been known for their high mobility and lethal power, and the 10th Edition Codex makes them even more formidable. They now come with 4+ invulnerable saves, making them much harder to shift from the battlefield.
Their weapons – the iconic blades and spears – still carve through infantry like butter, but they’re also capable of bringing down tougher targets, thanks to their updated stats. Plus, with Dante or another character leading them, they can become near-unstoppable.
Baal Predator and Other Vehicles
The Baal Predator is back and it’s still a flamethrower on wheels. This vehicle is designed to mow down infantry, and its role hasn’t changed much in 10th Edition. However, it’s now got Assault on all its ranged weapons, allowing it to move and shoot without penalties. The Baal Predator remains the go-to choice for players who want to torch hordes of enemies while supporting their more mobile assault units.
Other vehicles like the Stormraven Gunship and Drop Pods also play crucial roles, but the Baal Predator’s versatility keeps it in the spotlight.
Death Company Dreadnought
The Death Company Dreadnought has always been a fan favorite, and it gets a facelift in 10th Edition. With Driven by Fury, this mechanical monstrosity can move after being hit, making it faster and more unpredictable than before. It’s perfect for getting into the thick of combat quickly and smashing through enemy lines with its brutal close-combat attacks.
Just like the Death Company Marines, the Death Company Dreadnought is all about going out in a blaze of glory – and with the right support, it can take out entire squads before it falls.
Blood Angels Tactics & Strategies for 10th Edition
So, you’ve got your hands on the Blood Angels 10th Edition Codex, and you’re ready to charge headfirst into battle like the sons of Sanguinius should. But hold up—before you throw your Death Company into the fray, let’s talk strategy. Sure, the Blood Angels are all about glorious charges and hitting hard, but there’s more to mastering these rage-fueled space vampires than simply shouting “For the Emperor!” and charging in.
How to Build an Effective Blood Angels Army
Building a Blood Angels army is like crafting the perfect storm—one part aggressive melee, one part tactical positioning, and a dash of fiery temper. You want units that can move fast, hit like a sledgehammer, and, most importantly, survive long enough to do serious damage. The trick is balancing that legendary close-combat prowess with the mobility and durability needed to withstand counterattacks.
When assembling your army, you need to focus on synergy. Combining hard-hitting Death Company units with resilient Sanguinary Guard and a few choice characters like Dante or Mephiston will give you both staying power and versatility. Don’t forget some ranged support—yes, I said it—like the Baal Predator or Stormraven Gunship to soften up your enemy before you dive into the melee.
Blood Angels Combat Patrol
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The Warhammer 40k Combat Patrol boxes are a great choice for new players who are interested in exploring a particular faction. They offer a quick and easy way to assemble a small army and jump straight into playing games.
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These sets are similar to the Start Collecting Sets, which were introduced by GW in 2016. They are designed to help players get a feel for the faction and start building their skills right away.
Best Detachments for Different Playstyles
Blood Angels excel in different playstyles depending on which detachment you pick. Here are a few options:
- Death Company Detachment: If you love all-out aggression with a side of self-destruction, this is your go-to. You’ll be running at the enemy like a madman and loving every second.
- Sanguinary Guard Detachment: Precision, elegance, and tactical superiority define this detachment. It’s all about high mobility and deadly strikes at key moments.
- Liberator Assault Group: Ideal for players who prefer mobility and flexibility, this detachment lets you advance and charge like a freight train while controlling the battlefield.
Each detachment plays to different strengths, so choose wisely based on how you like to crush your foes.
Unit Combinations for Maximum Impact
To get the most out of your army, you’ll want to pair units that complement each other:
- Dante with Sanguinary Guard: Dante buffs the Guard, giving them that sweet +1 to hit and charge rolls, turning them into a precision wrecking crew.
- Astorath with Death Company: Astorath makes the Death Company hit harder and keeps them alive longer. Plus, his Mass of Doom ability brings Devastating Wounds to the table.
- Mephiston with Vanguard Veterans: Mephiston’s psychic powers can lock enemies in combat, allowing your Vets to swoop in and clean up. Pure synergy!
How to Play: Key Blood Angels Stratagems
Stratagems are your secret weapon—literally. The Blood Angels Codex offers a range of stratagems designed to enhance mobility, increase survivability, and make your already deadly units even more dangerous.
When to Use Advance-and-Charge Stratagems
The Blood Angels are all about closing the gap fast, and advance-and-charge stratagems are your best friend. Use these when you need to blitz across the board, catching your enemy off guard. Whether it’s Forlorn Fury for Death Company or Death from the Skies for Jump Pack units, timing these right can mean the difference between a glorious melee charge or a round of enemy fire hitting your face.
Enhancing Your Units with Blood Angels’ Unique Abilities
Don’t forget the Blood Angels’ unique abilities like The Red Thirst, which boosts your wound rolls in combat. Pairing this with stratagems that grant extra attacks or damage means your units can obliterate even the toughest enemies. Knowing when to stack these abilities will turn your army from dangerous to downright horrifying.
Latest Warhammer 40k Rules Updates For the Blood Angels Codex:
The latest updates for the Blood Angels 10th Edition rules will be released in what Games Workshop calls a Balance Dataslate, sometimes along with accompanying points changes as well. You can see all the latest Balance Dataslate updates here in our post, which breaks down the most recent changes.
How To Play Warhammer 40k Blood Angels: Points
You can find the latest points for playing this faction in 10th Edition Warhammer 40k here on our Munitorum Field Manual Points Updates Page.
Community Reactions to Blood Angels 10th Edition Codex
Mixed Responses to New Rules and Unit Changes
The new rules and unit updates have drawn mixed reactions. On one hand, Blood Angels fans are thrilled with the improved character models like Mephiston and Dante, as well as the thematic focus on close combat. However, the loss of old favorites like the Librarian Dreadnought has some players feeling like a piece of their army’s history is missing.
Points Adjustments and Their Impact on Play
Points changes are always a hot topic, and this codex is no different. Some units, like the Sanguinary Guard, have become more cost-effective, making them more attractive choices. On the other hand, Death Company Dreadnoughts now come with a steeper price tag, leading to debate about whether their new abilities justify the cost. The general consensus? We’ll probably see some tweaks in the next balance update.
Nostalgia for Old Units Like the Librarian Dreadnought
The removal of the Librarian Dreadnought has hit long-time players right in the feels. This unit was not only a unique blend of psychic power and brute force, but it also held a lot of lore significance for Blood Angels players. Though its disappearance makes sense with the shift toward Primaris models, it’s left a lot of players wistful for the days of yore (and psychic dreadnoughts).
How the Competitive Meta is Shifting for Blood Angels
As the competitive scene adapts to the new codex, Blood Angels are poised to make some serious waves. With their enhanced mobility, devastating melee potential, and strong character buffs, they’re shaping up to be a force to be reckoned with.
Predictions for Blood Angels in Warhammer Tournaments
Expect to see Liberator Assault Group and Sanguinary Guard Detachments making a strong showing in tournaments. Their combination of mobility, tactical flexibility, and raw power makes them a great choice for competitive play. Watch out for Mephiston and his psychic shenanigans to dominate high-level games, especially with his ability to lock down key units.
Conclusion: Embracing the Red Thirst in Warhammer 40k
The Red Thirst: it’s not just a catchy phrase; it’s the beating heart of the Blood Angels, and in Warhammer 40k, this genetic curse defines how these noble yet tragic warriors fight on the tabletop. For those new to the game or long-time fans of the chapter, the 10th Edition Blood Angels Codex does more than tweak a few rules—it brings their inner struggle to life while making sure they remain the masters of close combat that they’ve always been.
All the Latest Warhammer Rules & Model Rumors
What do you think about the new Warhammer 40k Blood Angels Codex rules and our 10th Edition review and guide on how to play them?
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!
