Here is the 2025 Warhammer 40k Codex roadmap with faction updates, release dates schedule, and gameplay shifts for 10th Edition!
Updated December 15th, 2024, by Rob Baer with all the new preview reveals from Games Workshop and links to relevant content.
If you’re as hyped as we are about the latest updates, you’re in for a treat. Games Workshop is rolling out an awesome roadmap release schedule with a lineup of new Codex books for 10th Edition Warhammer 40k in 2025. Here is what is on the horizon for 17 out of the nearly 30 factions in 2025, which is shaping up to be a blockbuster year for Games Workshop.
Exciting Times Ahead for Warhammer 40k Players in 2025!
Already Out and Rolling: First off, kudos to the Blood Angels, who just dropped their new Codex on October 19, 2024. If you grabbed the limited edition bundle with the Death Company battleforce back in September, you’re all set to unleash some fresh tactics on the battlefield.
There were also the Christmas battleforces that supplemented five Warhammer 40k factions with affordable releases, too. Find out more about the new 10th Edition Warhammer 40k Codex books and 2025 release schedule by jumping to any of the sections below.
- Which 10th Edition 40k Codexes are Coming Next?
- Warhammer 40k Codex Book Lineup & Release Dates 10th Edition
- What are Warhammer 40k Codex books
- Impact on the Meta
- Ease of 10th Edition 40k Codex Releases
- Redeeming Codex Codes
- 10th Edition 40k Codex FAQS
What’s Next in 2025:
Looking ahead, Games Workshop has confirmed three major Codex releases for 2025, with hints of even more exciting additions:
- Astra Militarum: Expect some serious firepower and new strategies as the backbone of the Imperium gets a fresh update. Rumor has it the Death Korps of Krieg will see a substantial range upgrade, perfect for those who love overwhelming your foes with sheer numbers and devastating fire.
- Aeldari: The elegant and deadly Aeldari are getting their own Codex, bringing new psychic abilities and ethereal units to the table. Whether you’re a fan of the Asurmen or the Phoenix Lords, there’s plenty to look forward to in enhancing your gameplay.
- Imperial Knights: Get ready to command those towering war machines with new wargear and house-specific upgrades. The Imperial Knights Codex is set to make these colossal warriors even more formidable on the battlefield.
What’s Brewing: But wait, there’s more! Games Workshop teased that the Emperor’s Children might be joining the Codex party in 2025. Imagine combining deadly precision with some seriously chaotic flair – it’s bound to shake things up!
Special Treats With Free PDF Expansions: December 2024 brought a sweet surprise with the ‘Grotmas Calendar’ promotion and 24 days of free PDF expansions, adding new detachments, enhancements, and stratagems to spice up your games. If you haven’t grabbed yours yet, make sure to check them out and give your army a fresh twist!
Warhammer 40k 10th Edition Codex Roadmap Lineup & 2025 Release Dates:
The release dates schedule and 2025 Warhammer Codex Roadmap for 10th Edition is like a gift that keeps on giving. While dates can sometimes shift, Games Workshop has provided a flexible timeline to help you plan your next big army overhaul. Here are the key release dates to mark on your calendar for the new 10th Edition Warhammer 40k codex books on the 2025 roadmap:
| Release Date: | Warhammer 40k Codex: |
| September 9, 2023: | Tyranids |
| October 7, 2023: | Space Marines |
| December 9, 2023: | Ad Mech |
| December 9, 2023: | Necrons |
| February 3, 2024: | Dark Angels (In Deathwing Assault) |
| March 9, 2024: | Dark Angels (Separate Release) |
| March 23, 2024: | T’au Empire ( In Kroot Hunting Pack) |
| April 20, 2024: | Adeptus Custodes |
| April 20, 2024: | Orks |
| May 4th, 2024 | T’au Empire (Separate Release) |
| May 25th, 2024: | Chaos Space Marines |
| June 22nd, 2024: |
Genestealer Cults |
| June 22nd, 2024: | Adepta Sororitas |
| August, 24th 2024 | Imperial Agents |
| September, 7th 2024 | Blood Angels (In Army Set Box) |
| October, 19th 2024 | Blood Angels (Standalone Release) |
| December, 2024 | Deathwatch Rules Update |
| Grotmas 2024 | 24 New Rules Detachments |
| 2025: | Grey Knights |
| 2025: | Astra Militarum Featuring Full DKoK |
| 2025: | Aeldari |
| 2025: | Imperial Knights (assumed*) |
| 2025: | Emperor’s Children Codex & Models |
Yes it’s time to get excited, the Aeldari, Astra Militarum, Imperial Knights, and Emperor’s Children are gearing up for fresh codex releases in 2025 that were previewed across Nova Open, Warhammer Day, and the Warhammer World Championships in early 2025.
Plus, Games Workshop said the Grey Knights codex would be released in 2025. Let’s just say—things are about to get wild on the battlefield. The only question now may be how long it will take for GW to release the rest of the codex books after early 2025, as they tend to reboot 40k every three years. Based on that trend, 11th edition Warhammer 40k is on track for a summer 2026 release!
Which 10th Edition 40k Codexes are Coming Next in 2025?
Codex Imperial Agents was released in August of 2024, and no one suspected Games Workshop to reveal their new 40k rules, character models, and three new battleforces all at once. They were followed by the Blood Angels Army box and separate codex release, and Deathwatch even got their rules updated in December 2024 for Grotmas!
First up on the 2025 hit list: Astra Militarum—the backbone of humanity’s fight against everything monstrous. Known for its seemingly endless legions and devastating firepower, this Codex promises not only new tactical options but possibly a reimagining of some old favorites, like the Death Korps of Krieg. With rumors swirling about additional characters and unit updates, Astra Militarum might even bring a few fresh faces to the field in their war against, well, practically everyone.
Then we have the Aeldari, the enigmatic space elves who are as elegant as they are deadly. This Codex is set to inject new life into the faction, possibly even expanding the narrative surrounding the fractured Aeldari society. Rumors hint at new psychic abilities, ethereal units, and perhaps a tweak to classic figures like the Asurmen and the Phoenix Lords. With the Aeldari always lurking in the shadows, you can bet they’ll have something unexpected in store.
Next, it’s time for the Imperial Knights to shine. This Codex will almost certainly double down on the towering war machines that have kept the galaxy’s enemies in check since the age of the Horus Heresy. Known for their titanic presence on the battlefield, the Knights’ new Codex is expected to bring innovative wargear, house-specific upgrades, and strategies tailored to the colossal machines that make other armies look like ants.
Big Names to Watch for in the 2025 Warhammer Codex Roadmap Schedule
As for big names to watch, one faction stands out above all: Emperor’s Children. Since Games Workshop gave a tantalizing hint at Warhammer Day 2024, fans have been clamoring for the standalone Emperor’s Children Codex release date. As one of the most feared Chaos Space Marine Legions, this Slaanesh-worshiping faction has a reputation for bringing elegance and brutality to new heights, pairing deadly precision with ear-splitting noise weaponry.
Recently, they got kicked out of the latest Chaos Space Marines codex and put into an Index, so it was much guaranteed they’re next in line for their own standalone Chaos faction update!
There’s also talk of the Chaos Daemons and their varied ranks making a comeback. Known for wielding nightmarish powers that defy the laws of reality, Daemons are a fan favorite, and it’s no stretch to imagine Games Workshop introducing fresh abilities and iconic characters to their ranks. In keeping with tradition, there may even be new models to match, letting Chaos players unleash their favorite Daemon hosts with a twist.
Meanwhile, fans waiting on a 10th Edition Leagues of Votann codex might see a resurgence in 2025. This faction of futuristic dwarves, introduced in 9th Edition, has rapidly gained a cult following for its high-tech, no-nonsense approach to combat. While nothing’s confirmed, there’s hope that 2025 will flesh out the Leagues with new rules that reinforce their unique flavor and focus on resilience.
Upcoming & Unreleased 10th Edition Warhammer 40k Codex Book Release Dates & 2025 Schedule
Here’s the scoop on which factions still need their 10th Edition Warhammer 40k codex books compared to the 9th edition, along with what’s coming up next from the new release roadmap.
| Codex | Release date |
| Chaos Daemons | Possibly 2025 |
| Chaos Knights | Possibly 2025 |
| Death Guard | Unknown |
| Drukhari (Dark Eldar) | Unknown |
| Grey Knights | Sometime in 2025 |
| Leagues of Votann | Unknown |
| Thousand Sons | Unknown |
| World Eaters | Unknown |
| Emperor’s Children | Unconfirmed & Unknown |
| Space Marine Supplements | Unconfirmed & Unknown |
| Deathwatch | Update Coming DEC 2024 |
| Space Wolves | Possibly 2025 |
What are Warhammer 40k Codexes?
Warhammer 40k Codexes are essential guidebooks for players to play the different factions in Warhammer. They serve as rulebooks and lore compendiums for all the playable factions within the universe. When combined with the core rules, they have all the rules you need to play your army.
Each Codex delves into the history, tactics, and unique characteristics of a particular army, offering players insight into the strengths and weaknesses of their chosen faction. From the stoic Space Marines to the insidious forces of Chaos, every Codex provides detailed information on unit types, special abilities, and army-building strategies.
For example, the Necrons Codex introduced new protocols that offer dynamic battlefield strategies, while the Orks Codex doubled down on the chaotic and unpredictable nature of their warfare. These key changes highlight each faction’s unique characteristics, ensuring every game feels fresh and exciting.
These books not only lay out the rules for gameplay but also suck you into the awesome narrative and worldbuilding of Warhammer 40k. They’re packed with captivating stories, stunning artwork, and detailed illustrations, bringing the grim darkness of the far future to vibrant life.
GW keeps these codexes up to date to keep the game balanced, with new editions introducing revised rules and extra content. You can’t have players feeling left out in the cold, can they?
Games Workshop is making it easier than ever to jump into the 10th Edition with a bunch of free indexes and PDF downloads. Generally, these updates are done through FAQs, Balance Dataslates, and points changes.
How Each 10th Edition Codex Impacts Gameplay
Unique Abilities and Faction Mechanics in New Codexes
Each new Codex in 10th Edition doesn’t just bring more rules—it redefines what every faction brings to the battlefield. Every release is like receiving a new set of toys but ones that come with special powers, unique mechanics, and, let’s be honest, some very specific ways to mess with your opponent’s head. In the 10th Edition, Games Workshop has amped up faction flavor by leaning hard into each army’s unique identity, transforming each Codex into a rulebook that feels distinctly personal to its faction.
Take the Tyranids, for example. These biotech nightmares have seen a major overhaul that emphasizes their hive mind and adaptive evolution. Thanks to their Synapse mechanic, they can ignore morale, which means Tyranid players can march those creepy, skittering creatures right into the teeth of enemy fire without worrying about retreat. Their new Codex also introduces “Endless Swarm,” letting Tyranid players regenerate units that get wiped out—because what’s scarier than a bunch of ravenous xenos? A bunch of ravenous xenos that don’t know when to quit.
Then we have the Space Marines with their hallmark flexibility and deadly versatility. Known for being adaptable on the fly, the Space Marines Codex enhances their tactical precision, granting players access to “Combat Doctrines.” These let Space Marines switch between stances mid-game, optimizing their units for close combat, shooting, or defense as needed. Space Marine armies feel like a well-oiled machine, rolling out power-armored might that responds dynamically to the shifting tides of battle.
Chaos Space Marines, on the other hand, bring chaos—literally. Their Codex focuses on dark gifts and corrupting effects that benefit from the fickle favor of Chaos gods. With abilities like “Warp-fueled Invocations” that grant demonic buffs, Chaos Space Marines are as unpredictable as they are brutal, making each battle a unique experience based on which dark forces decide to lend a hand.
Effects of the Codex Roadmap on the Competitive Meta
Each Codex release doesn’t just impact individual games—it reshapes the entire competitive landscape, forcing players to adapt to new strategies, threats, and combos. In the cutthroat world of competitive Warhammer 40k, even a single Codex can throw the meta on its head, and the 10th Edition roadmap ensures we won’t have a predictable meta anytime soon.
Take the Tyranids and their regenerative abilities. Competitively, this Codex has sparked a shift in strategies as players realize they need a different approach to counter an army that just keeps coming back. Instead of counting on standard attrition tactics, competitive players now have to think in terms of total battlefield control to pin down those Tyranid forces and limit their regeneration capabilities.
Similarly, Space Marines have injected more tactical depth with their Combat Doctrines, which have made them a flexible powerhouse in competitive play. Players can tailor their Marines to handle any battlefield situation, which has made them a dominant force. To counter them, competitive players are exploring new army builds to match Space Marines’ adaptability, especially in tournaments where Marine lists are almost a guaranteed sight.
Meanwhile, the arrival of the Aeldari Codex has thrown a wrench in the works for players who banked on straightforward strategies. With the Aeldari’s speed and psychic prowess, this faction has become a bit of a wild card in competitive play. Psychic attacks, mobility, and a unique focus on ranged combat force players to think twice about their positioning, making the Aeldari one of the trickiest opponents on the table.
What Will Happen To Codex Books From 9th Edition to 10th Edition?
According to Games Workshop:
“The Design Studio has taken a long, hard look at the state of the game. The core rules that underpin Warhammer 40,000 are strong, but in their review, they found many opportunities for streamlining the system, fixing rules that didn’t quite sit right, and numerous other ‘quality-of-life’ changes. “
As they said multiple times, the new edition aims to simplify and streamline a lot of the clutter surrounding rules. With this reveal, they reiterated that idea further as to how the 10th Edition will differ right down to codexes from the old 9th Edition rules.
“Those sticky complexities have now been smoothed out, and without losing any of the game’s depth. These much-needed simplifications are substantial enough that, from a rules perspective at least, every ninth edition codex has been rendered obsolete. That’s not to say they’re useless – they’re still bursting with the lore, history, and short stories that define each faction, and until new codexes emerge over the course of the new edition, these books will still be the main repository of the knowledge you need.”
While it sounds rough, “rendered obsolete,” it does make sense. The overhaul they are talking about seems to be all-encompassing, and trying to tie in or errata all the current rules just isn’t worth it and would be confusing for players anyway.
“The associated packs of datacards are also obsolete. One of the main vectors for streamlining armies has been to heavily reduce the numbers of Stratagems available to each faction. Gone are the days of shuffling through 50 cards to find the right ability – each army now has a lean list of them included on the double-page spread that defines them.”
With the band-aid ripped off, datacards containing the rules from the codexes will also be unusable.
“You will nevertheless be able to play your chosen army as soon as the new edition lands. We are releasing revamped, restatted, and reconsidered datasheets for every single unit in the game – all free to download at launch and ready to go. You’ll also be able to buy inexpensive packs of these cards at launch.”
However, to ease the pain a bit, all factions received a free online Index set of Warhammer 40k 10th Edition rules on day 1!
Boarding Actions, on the other hand, are still going strong. The core rules in Arks of Omen: Abaddon were specifically written to work with the new edition, and the book will remain available for the foreseeable future. All you need to play this tight and tense format of Warhammer 40,000, is this book, the book that contains your own faction rules, and a set of terrain.
The last tidbit they gave us was regarding the Arks of Omen series, and thankfully, these recent books and their rules were made to continue working into the 10th edition.
How Do You Redeem Warhammer 40k Codex Codes?
On the back page of every codex, there is a code that will grant you online access to the rules and the army builder function within the Warhammer 40k app. You will need to have a My Warhammer account to redeem the code. Once you have that setup, you can go into the Warhammer 40k app and type in the code that comes on the back page of the codex.
Once you have entered the code, you will then be able to access the rules within the 40k App, which will be automatically updated when GW updates the rules, and you can also use the army builder in the app to make your army lists. The code can only be used once, so don’t share it!
There are also plenty of free third-party army builders (like Battlescribe or New Recruit) and the awesome Wahapedia 10th Edition reference guide you can use as well to make lists for your Warhammer 40k games.
Ease of 10th Edition 40k Codex Release Dates & 2025 Warhammer 40k Release Schedule
With a complete framework for every faction, making new codexes has never been easier for GW. All they have to do is look at the meta, change some points, fill in some new detachments, and add artwork. Boom, a new book! For the last edition, they had to make basically entirely new books with only the models laid out for them. This time, they don’t have to worry about individual points, coming up with the identity for the edition, or anything like that.
So, in theory, it should be easy (as long as they can ship out the products) to make new books, stay on track, and actually make changes closer to release than usual.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About the Warhammer 40k Codex Roadmap
Q: Do I need a new Codex if I have an Index?
- Short answer: Yes.
- Long answer: The Indexes were an awesome (and free!) starting point for players, packed with basic rules to get armies rolling when 10th Edition launched. However, as each Codex is released, it replaces the Index for that faction. Codexes bring out each faction’s personality with new abilities, lore, and a sharper edge in the rules department. Think of the Indexes as a sampler platter and the Codex as the full banquet. If you’re serious about wielding your faction’s full tactical might, the Codex is where it’s at.
Q: How are Codexes updated in 10th Edition?
Games Workshop has a clever system in place. Each Codex release is tailored to match the streamlined mechanics of 10th Edition, focusing on simplification without losing depth. Once a Codex is out, it’s also backed by digital updates, like Balance Dataslates and FAQs, ensuring players stay current without scrambling for entirely new books every few months. Plus, with the My Warhammer app, digital codes found in the back of the Codexes mean players get updates directly in their app—no hunting required.
Impact of 10th Edition on 9th Edition Codexes and Rules
When 10th Edition launched, it effectively put the 9th Edition Codexes out to pasture. The transition to 10th Edition brought such a sweeping change that Games Workshop decided to let 9th Edition books retire peacefully rather than patch them up. So, while you may still love those beautifully illustrated 9th Edition Codexes, they’re no longer valid for 10th Edition play.
That said, they’re still worth keeping around for the lore and artwork! If you want to enjoy the narrative of your favorite faction or just admire the rich history within, 9th Edition Codexes are still treasure troves. But on the battlefield, only the 10th Edition Indexes or Codexes will keep you in the game.
Final Thoughts on the Warhammer 40k Codex Roadmap and Release Schedule
With a robust lineup of codex books slated for 2025, Warhammer 40k’s 10th Edition roadmap is showing no signs of slowing down. From the looming arrival of Astra Militarum, Imperial Knights, and Aeldari to the highly anticipated standalone Codex for the Emperor’s Children, the year ahead is packed with potential game-changers. Each Codex promises to bring something unique to the battlefield, amplifying the diversity of strategies and challenges for players.
Summary of 2025 10th Edition Warhammer Codex Roadmap & Release Schedule
The Warhammer 40k Codex roadmap is more than a series of dates—it’s a series of milestones that keep the game evolving (without overwhelming us). Each new release refreshes gameplay brings unexpected twists and opens up new tactics for loyalists and heretics alike. Whether you’re a veteran commander or just finding your way in the 41st Millennium, the 2025 roadmap offers something for every fan.
And with Games Workshop’s commitment to balancing and updating, we’re all set for a year of epic skirmishes, strategic battles, and, yes, a little chaos. Click the links below to find out more about the awesome Warhammer 40k universe and tabletop game!
- Latest Warhammer 40k Rumors
- New Release Roadmap For Warhammer 40k
- Warhammer 40k 10th Edition Balance Dataslate Updates
- Lore & Faction Guides
- 2025 Warhammer 40k Codex Roadmap
- Warhammer 40k Combat Patrol Box Set Guide: Pricing & Values
- Best Warhammer 40k Armies
- Exclusive Warhammer Miniatures
- 40k Base Sizes Resource Guide
Are you excited about the 10th Edition Warhammer 40k Codex Roadmap, the 2025 release schedule, and GW’s stance on the codex book rules and these release dates?
About the Author: Andrew Schrank
Andrew Schrank
Job Title: Miniatures & Warhammer Hobby Staff Writer
Socials: Facebook
About Andrew Schrank: Over the past 15 years, Andrew has played all the games, including tabletop and video games, and immersed himself in the associated lore. Andrew joined the Spikey Bits team in 2018 and covers the Warhammer hobby and tournament scene, along with the latest in tabletop miniatures, each week.
Aspiring diplomat, Lord of Fluff, and Master of Ice Hammer, He loves Star Wars, Chaos Undivided, and Gundam. During his free time, he hunts Platinum trophies on PS5 and reads international news. On weekends, Andrew plays commander and cEDH games, often with unique strategies that push the limits.
He believes each day presents a new opportunity to grow and be challenged.
