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The Ultimate Lineup: Must-Have Units for Competitive Edge in 10th Edition

July 10, 2025


As the competitive landscape of tabletop wargaming evolves with each new edition, players constantly seek ways to sharpen their strategies and enhance their gameplay. The 10th edition has introduced a plethora of new units, rules, and tactics that can significantly impact your chances of victory. Here, we delve into the must-have units that can provide a competitive edge, ensuring your army is equipped for success.

Understanding the Meta

Before diving into the units themselves, it’s vital to comprehend the current meta. In 10th edition, several factors influence what makes a unit "must-have": versatility, synergy with other units, and adaptability to various scenarios. The units mentioned below excel in one or more of these areas, making them essential additions to any competitive army.

1. Versatile Troops Choices

Infiltrator Squads

Infiltrators have emerged as one of the top choices for most factions. Their ability to deploy in strategic locations at the start of the game allows players to control key objectives and disrupt enemy plans. With decent armor and ranged capabilities, they can serve both offensive and defensive roles.

Chaff Units

While not as glamorous, chaff units are critical for holding objectives and screening your more valuable troops. Units like the Adeptus Mechanicus Rangers or Tyranid Termagants can occupy spaces on the battlefield, forcing your opponent to redirect their focus and resources.

2. Heavy Hitters

Venerable Dreadnoughts

Dreadnoughts have retained their status as a cornerstone of many lists. With decent durability and a range of powerful weapon options, Venerable Dreadnoughts can withstand damage while delivering significant firepower. Their ability to anchor your lines makes them indispensable.

Chaos Knights

For those who prefer a more aggressive playstyle, Chaos Knights provide tremendous offensive punch. Capable of taking down enemy armor and grinding through infantry, these towering machines can dominate the battlefield, drawing fire away from other units.

3. Support Units

Psychic Support

Psykers like the Farseer or Librarian have become essential, thanks to their ability to manipulate the flow of battle with powerful buffs and debuffs. The psychic phase can turn the tides, making it essential to include a reliable psychic support unit in your lineup.

Techmarine

The Techmarine is another underrated gem that provides both support and durability. Capable of repairing vehicles and providing buffs, they can keep your heavy hitters operational for longer, greatly enhancing your force’s sustainability.

4. Special Characters

Primarchs and Unique Characters

Units like Roboute Guilliman or Mortarion bring extraordinary abilities to your army. These characters not only offer robust combat prowess but also unlock additional strategies through their special rules. Including one of these formidable characters can elevate your army to new heights.

Captains and Lieutenants

Standard-bearers like Captains and Lieutenants provide vital rerolls to hit and wound, significantly enhancing the efficiency of your troops. They also offer buffs that can help with survivability, making them a staple in competitive list-building.

5. Fast Attack Options

Bike Squadrons

Fast-moving units like Space Marine Attack Bikes or Ork Warbikers excel at hit-and-run tactics, objectives, and flanking maneuvers. Their ability to reposition quickly allows them to threaten your opponent’s objectives while keeping them on their toes.

Flyers

In 10th edition, the role of flyers cannot be understated. Units like the Imperial Navy Thunderbolt or Necron Doom Scythe can provide air superiority and strike from above, bypassing ground-level threats and securing critical points on the battlefield.

Conclusion

Incorporating the right mix of these must-have units into your lineup can significantly enhance your competitive edge in the 10th edition. Each unit brings unique strengths and strategies that, when combined, create a cohesive army capable of adapting to various challenges. By understanding the strengths of each unit and how they fit within your broader strategy, you can optimize your chances of success on the battlefield. Happy gaming!