Your guide to the Aeldari (Eldar) army and playstyles in Warhammer 40k; learn how Ulthwe, Harlequins, Autarchs, and others shape battle strategies to discover your ideal approach!
Updated December 24th, 2024, by Rob Baer with the latest information and links.
Warhammer 40k players know that picking an army is only the first step—understanding how it fights is where the magic happens. The Aeldari, with their rich lore and versatile units, are a favorite for tacticians who thrive on finesse and precision.
Whether you’re drawn to the psychic prowess of Ulthwe or the resilient spirit of Iyanden, each Aeldari faction brings unique strategies to the table in 40k. This guide breaks down what makes these ancient space elves tick, giving you the tools to find the perfect match for your battlefield style. Let’s get straight into the mix and see what these factions bring to the galaxy’s endless war.
Aeldari Army Playstyles Guide: A Look at the Crafty Eldar of Warhammer 40k
In the high-stakes battles of Warhammer 40k, the Aeldari stand out for their grace, precision, and centuries-old mastery of war (and are, in a way, responsible for the Emperor’s Children… sort of). Whether you’re facing off against hulking war machines or hordes of enemies (like the DKoK), the Aeldari in 40k bring a combination of psychic might, speed, and tactical brilliance to the table. Let’s untangle what makes these space elves so captivating and how their distinct factions shape your game.
Playstyles Within Eldar
The Aeldari aren’t a one-size-fits-all army—they’re a tapestry of diverse factions, each with its own strengths and quirks. From the disciplined ranks of Craftworld Aeldari and Autarchs to the deadly theatrics of Harlequins, every playstyle offers something unique in 40k. Prefer lightning-fast skirmishes? There’s an option for that. Love overwhelming firepower? They’ve got you covered.
Craftworld Aeldari
The Craftworld Aeldari are the backbone of the Eldar forces, blending psychic prowess and specialized units in 40k. They’re all about synergy: units like the Farseer and Autarch guide your army with powerful buffs and strategic abilities. Then, you can add Harlequins to really give you combat prowess.
Ulthwe
Ulthwe is the psychic powerhouse of the Craftworlds. Expect a Farseer-led army that dominates the battlefield with warp-based tricks and relentless infantry. Their Black Guardians offer extra durability and accuracy, making them excellent for players who love control and resilience. This could be such an awesome representation of them as well on the Cavill Amazon series!
Iyanden
For those who like their armies with a side of giant spectral constructs, Iyanden is the way to go. Wraithknights and Wraithguard are the stars here, turning the tide with raw firepower and resilience. The spirit stones of Iyanden ensure their units fight long past the point when others would crumble.
Saim Hann
Speed demons, rejoice—Saim Hann specializes in fast-moving Jetbikes and hit-and-run tactics. Their Eldar Jetbike units are unmatched in maneuverability, ideal for seizing objectives and harassing enemy flanks before disappearing in a blur.
Alaitoc
Stealth and precision define Alaitoc. With bonuses to evasion and deadly Aeldari Rangers, this faction is perfect for players who enjoy frustrating their opponents by staying out of sight while picking off high-value targets.
Biel-Tan
Biel-Tan leans heavily into Aspect Warriors like Dire Avengers and Striking Scorpions. They focus on surgical strikes and battlefield domination, bringing a mix of melee and ranged prowess that’s hard to counter.
Exodites and Rangers
The nomadic Exodites and their dinosaur-mounted units may not get as much spotlight in standard 40k games, but their lore adds an exciting edge to the Eldar story. Pair them with Rangers for a thematic, sneaky force that specializes in guerilla warfare and long-range sniping.
Harlequins
The Harlequins are pure chaos—in the best way. The Harlequins bring a theatrical flair to combat, weaving across the battlefield with unmatched speed and dealing devastating damage. A Harlequin force is ideal for players who love movement shenanigans and a bit of flair in their gameplay.
Key Units and Their Impact on Playstyles
The Aeldari army in Warhammer 40k is a showcase of specialization and precision, with units tailored to specific roles that excel when wielded with tactical finesse. Let’s break down the key players that bring the Eldar are legendary mastery of war to life on the tabletop.
Farseer and Autarch: The Brains Behind the Operation
Every Aeldari army thrives under the guidance of its psychic and strategic masterminds, the Farseer and the Autarch. The Farseer, with unparalleled psychic abilities, is the ultimate battlefield manipulator. They can tip the scales with powers that reroll dice, cripple enemy units, or shield allies with psychic barriers.
The Autarch, meanwhile, is all about tactical flexibility. Autarchs provide essential buffs to nearby units, helping Aeldari forces operate like a well-oiled machine in 40k. With the right relics or wargear, an Autarch can even become a deadly force in their own right, charging into combat alongside the Aspect Warriors.
Warp Spiders and Striking Scorpions: Death in Two Flavors
Eldar Aspect Warriors each have a unique focus, but few are as iconic as Warp Spiders and Striking Scorpions. Warp Spiders are masters of mobility, utilizing warp-jump generators to flit across the battlefield. Their death spinners can mow down enemy infantry with terrifying efficiency, and their hit-and-run tactics make them frustrating to pin down.
Striking Scorpions, on the other hand, are all about close-quarters carnage. Armed with chainswords and mandiblaster helmets, these stealthy killers excel at ambushing enemies and shredding them in melee. If sneaking through terrain and delivering brutal surprises appeals to you, Striking Scorpions are your go-to unit.
Dire Avengers and Aeldari Guardians: Core Infantry That Delivers
Dire Avengers and Aeldari Guardians form the backbone of many Craftworld armies, and each shines in its own way. Dire Avengers bring precision and durability to the table, armed with Avenger shuriken catapults that shred through lightly armored foes. Their flexibility makes them a dependable choice for both offense and defense.
Aeldari Guardians, though more fragile, bring versatility and numbers. With access to heavy weapon platforms, they can dish out surprising amounts of firepower while holding objectives. They may not have the finesse of other units, but in the hands of a skilled commander, Guardians can punch above their weight.
Wraithknight: The Walking Colossus
When it’s time to bring the big guns, the Wraithknight answers the call. This towering construct combines resilience with devastating firepower, making it a centerpiece for any Iyanden army or a Craftworld Aeldari force looking to intimidate opponents. Armed with heavy wraithcannons or suncannons, the Wraithknight is a walking nightmare that commands attention on the battlefield.
Aeldari Corsairs: Pirates with Style
Aeldari Corsairs inject a touch of unpredictability into any list. These space-faring rogues bring a mix of ranged and melee capabilities, often acting as a wild card that can strike where the enemy least expects. If you like flair and flexibility, Corsairs add a bit of chaos to the otherwise precise Aeldari force.
Aeldari Jetbike: Speed and Power Combined
Few units capture the Aeldari aesthetic as well as their Jetbikes. These sleek, lightning-fast vehicles are a staple of Saim Hann armies, zipping across the board to claim objectives or harass enemy flanks. Armed with shuriken cannons or scatter lasers, Jetbikes are as deadly as they are nimble, making them a favorite for players who value speed above all else.
Tactical Strategies
When it comes to the Aeldari in Warhammer 40k, tactics reign supreme. This isn’t an army you throw into the fray willy-nilly—they reward careful planning, precise movement, and knowing when to strike. From defensive setups to outright aggression, the Aeldari have the tools to master any battlefield. Whether you focus on Autarchs or Harlequins, there is something for everyone.
To start playing them, you will need a Codex book or access to a reference site like Wahapedia, or the official Warhammer 40k army builder app (subscription required for most up-to-date rules.)
Defensive Play with Aeldari
If you like to control the game by holding key positions and forcing opponents to come to you, the Aeldari offer plenty of options for a strong defensive strategy.
- Ulthwe Craftworld stands out for its durability. With bonuses that enhance survivability and the ability to field Black Guardians who pack a stronger punch, Ulthwe armies are excellent at weathering early-game fire and holding the line.
- Units like Aeldari Guardians with heavy weapon platforms can create a solid core of ranged firepower. Pair them with a Farseer to provide psychic support, like rerolls or damage mitigation, and suddenly your squishy Aeldari units are much harder to dislodge.
- Wraithknights can anchor a defensive formation, acting as both a deterrent and a counterpunch to any opponent foolish enough to charge into your ranks.
The key to a successful defensive Aeldari strategy is knowing when to dig in and when to reposition. With their unparalleled mobility, Aeldari forces can shift gears quickly, making them difficult for opponents to pin down.
Aggressive Strategies
For those who prefer to dictate the pace and go on the offensive, the Aeldari have plenty of tools to outmaneuver and outgun their enemies.
- Saim Hann Jetbikes are the poster child of aggressive Aeldari play. Their speed and firepower allow them to strike critical targets early, control objectives, and keep opponents on the back foot.
- Warp Spiders and Striking Scorpions shine in this playstyle, too. Warp Spiders use their mobility to jump into advantageous positions and unload their deadly weapons before retreating to safety, while Striking Scorpions can infiltrate and shred enemies in melee combat.
- For those who enjoy raw firepower, Biel-Tan Aspect Warriors like Dire Avengers excel at focused, devastating attacks. Combine them with an Autarch for strategic buffs, and you’ve got a potent offensive force.
Aggressive Aeldari strategies work best when you can identify and exploit weaknesses in your opponent’s formation. Their fragile units mean mistakes can be costly, but the payoff for a well-executed strike is unmatched.
Balanced Approach
If you’re looking for versatility, a balanced Aeldari list is a great choice. By blending defensive elements with hard-hitting offensive units, you can adapt to whatever your opponent throws at you.
- Iyanden Wraith units bring a mix of resilience and firepower, making them effective at holding objectives and pushing into enemy territory.
- Adding Harlequins to the mix can enhance your mobility and melee threat, giving your force an unpredictable edge.
- Meanwhile, Aeldari Corsairs can serve as versatile wild cards, capable of filling gaps in your strategy with their flexibility in both ranged and melee combat.
The balanced approach emphasizes the strengths of the Aeldari’s combined-arms philosophy, ensuring you can pivot between defense and offense with ease. By leveraging the psychic power of a Farseer and the tactical acumen of an Autarch, a balanced Aeldari army is prepared for any challenge.
Eldar Lore: Masters of Grace and Destruction
The Aeldari, often referred to as Eldar in the Warhammer 40k universe, are one of the most enigmatic and ancient factions to grace the galaxy’s endless battlefields. These spacefaring elves combine otherworldly elegance with deadly efficiency, making them a favorite for players who love high-risk, high-reward gameplay. But who exactly are the Aeldari, and why is understanding their playstyles so critical to mastering them on the tabletop?
Overview of Aeldari in Warhammer 40k
The Aeldari are a race with a tragic history. Once the dominant civilization in the galaxy, their fall from grace came with the creation of Slaanesh, a Chaos God birthed from their unchecked decadence. This catastrophe shattered their empire, leaving only fragmented factions like the Craftworld Aeldari, Drukhari, Harlequins, and Ynnari. Each of these groups approaches survival in a galaxy of war differently, but all share the same roots—and the same elegant lethality.
What makes the Aeldari truly fascinating is their specialization. Each unit in an Aeldari army is designed to excel in a specific role, whether it’s shredding foes in close combat, raining destruction from afar, or supporting allies with psychic powers. This precision demands a sharp strategic mind, but when played effectively, the Aeldari can outmaneuver and outclass almost any opponent.
Importance of Understanding Playstyles
Success with the Aeldari hinges on more than just picking units that look cool (though their aesthetic is undeniably appealing). It’s about understanding how their unique playstyles match your approach to the game.
- Craftworld Aeldari armies bring a mix of psychic power and versatile units, with options like the Farseer and Autarch offering tactical control that few factions can match. Their Aspect Warriors, such as Dire Avengers and Striking Scorpions, are laser-focused on excelling in specific battlefield roles, making strategic deployment critical.
- Iyanden, for example, leans into durability with its focus on Wraith units. Wraithknights and Wraithguard are perfect for players who want to weather enemy fire while dealing devastating counterattacks.
- For a faster, more mobile approach, Saim Hann takes the crown. Their Jetbikes allow you to outmaneuver opponents with ease, striking weak points and seizing objectives before your enemy can react.
The Aeldari aren’t forgiving—they demand precision and planning. A single misstep can cost you a unit, or even the game. But when you master their playstyles, you’ll find few armies as rewarding to command.
Understanding your preferred playstyle also allows you to blend different elements effectively. Fancy some Harlequin flair in your Craftworld force? Their lightning-fast melee combat can complement a Biel-Tan army’s focus on Aspect Warriors, giving you a well-rounded list that catches your opponent off-guard.
Playing the Eldar is as much about artistry as it is about strategy. Each faction offers a distinct flavor, and figuring out how these space elves match your gaming preferences is half the fun. So, grab your Wraithknight, field your Dire Avengers, and prepare to outwit and outfight the galaxy’s other inhabitants with a force as elegant as it is deadly.
Core Factions of Aeldari
The Aeldari aren’t just a single cohesive faction—they’re a galaxy-spanning race fragmented into several distinct groups, each with its own philosophy and approach to the battlefield. Whether you’re drawn to the disciplined precision of the Craftworld Aeldari, the ruthless cunning of the Drukhari, or the fiery resurgence of the Ynnari, there’s a flavor of Eldar to match your style. Let’s break down the major factions and what they bring to the grim darkness of Warhammer 40k.
Asuryani: The Discipline of the Craftworlds
The Asuryani, or Craftworld Aeldari, are the guardians of their race’s ancient traditions. Living aboard massive starships known as Craftworlds, these Aeldari focus on preserving what remains of their shattered civilization. On the battlefield, they’re known for their balance of psychic power, elite units, and specialized warriors.
A Craftworld army thrives on synergy. Units like the Farseer and Autarch are key to maximizing your force’s potential. A Farseer’s psychic abilities can manipulate fate itself, allowing you to reroll crucial dice or protect your troops from harm. Meanwhile, an Autarch provides strategic flexibility, improving the efficiency of nearby units and helping your army adapt to shifting battlefield conditions.
The Asuryani’s Aspect Warriors are the real stars here. From Dire Avengers for ranged excellence to Striking Scorpions for melee ambushes, every Aspect unit has a specific role. Combining these units effectively is the hallmark of a skilled Craftworld commander. Add in the heavy-hitting Wraithknight or the speed of Jetbikes, and you have an army that’s as versatile as it is deadly.
Drukhari: The Sadistic Raiders
The Drukhari, or Dark Eldar, are the twisted cousins of the Craftworld Aeldari. Dwelling in the shadowy Webway city of Commorragh, these warriors thrive on pain and suffering, both on and off the battlefield.
A Drukhari army excels at speed and hitting hard where it hurts most. They can strike fast with razor-sharp precision, then retreat before their enemies can respond. Raiders, Venoms, and other fast-moving vehicles provide mobility, while units like Wyches and Incubi tear apart foes in close combat.
Their playstyle revolves around keeping pressure on the opponent. With fragile units that hit like a freight train, the Drukhari reward aggressive, calculated gameplay. Every skirmish is a high-risk, high-reward scenario, but their ability to rapidly adapt and strike weak points makes them one of the most exciting armies to command.
Ynnari: The Rebirth Movement
The Ynnari are the youngest faction in the Aeldari lineup, focused on the worship of Ynnead, the god of the dead. This group seeks to unite all Aeldari factions—Asuryani, Drukhari, and even Harlequins—in a desperate bid to defeat Slaanesh and save their race from extinction.
On the tabletop, Ynnari armies blend elements from all Aeldari factions, allowing you to create unique combinations of units. They gain additional benefits from their signature rule, Strength From Death, which makes them deadlier after units are destroyed.
Ynnari forces can include everything from Warp Spiders and Aeldari Rangers to Harlequins, opening up endless possibilities for crafting a thematic and effective list. If you love blending psychic power, speed, and melee devastation, the Ynnari provide the tools to make it happen.
Choosing the Right Playstyle
When it comes to commanding an Eldar army in Warhammer 40k, finding the playstyle that clicks with you is as crucial as mastering the rules of the game. The beauty of the Aeldari is their diversity—every faction offers a distinct flavor, making it easy to find something that aligns with your strategic instincts.
If you’re drawn to precision and psychic dominance, Craftworld Aeldari like Ulthwe or Iyanden might be your ideal choice. With units like the Farseer and Autarch, you can control the flow of the game while relying on durable Wraith units or specialized Aspect Warriors.
For adrenaline junkies who love speed and aggression, Drukhari offer a fast-paced, high-damage approach. With their focus on mobility and surgical strikes, you can race circles around slower armies and dismantle them piece by piece.
And if you’re a fan of flexibility, Ynnari allow you to cherry-pick units from across the Aeldari spectrum. Combine psychic power, melee prowess, and ranged destruction to create a list that’s as unpredictable as it is deadly.
Ultimately, your choice comes down to how you want to play. Fancy a measured game of precision and synergy? Craftworld Aeldari are for you. Prefer high-octane raids that punish mistakes? Drukhari all the way. Or maybe you want the best of both worlds? Say hello to the Ynnari (and throw in some Harlequins for fun).
FAQs & Tips for New Players
Q: Are the Aeldari hard to play for beginners?
A: They can be tricky, but that’s part of the fun! Aeldari armies reward players who enjoy planning and tactical finesse. Start with a smaller force, like a Combat Patrol, to get a feel for how units work together.
Q: Which Aeldari faction is the most beginner-friendly?
A: The Craftworld Aeldari, especially Ulthwe or Iyanden, are good starting points. They offer a mix of durability and power without being as fragile or punishing as Drukhari.
Q: What’s the best way to deal with the Aeldari’s fragility?
A: Positioning is everything. Use cover and mobility to keep your units safe. Units like Eldar Rangers, Harlequins, and Jetbikes are excellent for harassing enemies while staying out of harm’s way.
Final Thoughts on Aeldari (Eldar) in Warhammer 40k
The Aeldari bring elegance and lethality to the battlefields of Warhammer 40k. Whether you lean toward the psychic precision of the Craftworlds and the Autarchs, the brutal raids of the Drukhari, the wildness of the Harlequins, or the balanced power of the Ynnari, there’s an Aeldari playstyle waiting to match your tactical ambitions. Learn the strengths and weaknesses of your chosen faction, adapt your strategies to the battlefield, and watch as your opponents struggle to keep up with your masterful command of these ancient space elves.
Warhammer 40k Factions Explained: A Complete Guide to Every Army
What do you think about the Aeldari (Eldar), with Harlequins, Ynnari, and Autarchs in Warhammer 40k? Do you like the playstyle and units in 40k?
About the Author: Travis Pasch
Travis Pasch
Job Title: Head Writer & Editor
Socials: @paschbass
About Travis Pasch: Travis has been a Warhammer 40k hobbyist since the 1990s, playing the game since Third Edition. Through extensive traveling, he’s seen a lot of the miniatures hobby from across the world, giving him a unique perspective on the latest gaming topics and trends.
Travis’s brother even owns a commission painting studio, where he’s picked up a lot of good advice and techniques for painting Warhammer and tabletop miniatures over the years, as well. Travis joined the Spikey Bits team in 2019 and has been the lead writer since 2020.
Currently, he’s working on converting all his 40k Adeptus Mechanicus models and becoming a true tech enjoyer, complete with both sad and happy robot noises!
