Whilst the focus has been on Warhammer: The Horus Heresy, we're now shifting back to the grimdark future of Warhammer 40,000. This weekend will see pre-orders go live for the new Codex: Chaos Space Marines book, an updated Combat Patrol, and more.

Codex: Chaos Space Marines // Warhammer 40,000

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The new Codex comes in its regular version (right) and the full-bleed art version (left) from Games Workshop. Inside both of them, you'll find details on getting started with your Chaos Space Marines Legions and bringing ruin to the galaxy. There is a Corpse Emperor that needs to be brought low!

I am really hoping that we do see that shift towards being able to make armies that reflect the insidious nature of Chaos. Whilst there are lots of massed Legions ready to do battle with the Imperium, there are far more sects and warbands that are headed up by a few Traitor Space Marines or indeed just one. I would love to focus on that. Imagine an army of Traitor Guard led by one malevolent Chaos Space Marine, working in the background.

New Combat Patrol

The new Combat Patrol for the Chaos Space Marines might help to tick some of those boxes.

Combat Patrol - Chaos Space Marines // Warhammer 40,000

Leading the way is the Dark Apostle that I would use to lead my Chaos Space Marines army. I think the model looks epic. His book is so heretical that it is literally bleeding fire. I think it helps that he is joined by two awesome Dark Disciples too, helping him spread the "good" word.

The Dark Apostle is joined by ten Heretic Astartes that can be armed in a variety of ways. You've then got five Havocs who will be bringing in some heavy firepower to deal with enemy armour. Topping things off, we also have the Helbrute that can be designed for up close and personal combat or perhaps as a walking, mutated weapon platform.

I think this is a pretty decent set. It comes with a good set of standard infantry for the Chaos Space Marines plus a solid HQ choice and good support units. It should be able to hold its own in a few smaller games.

New Dice & Datacards

Capping things off for those starting out with Chaos Space Marines, we have a new set of Dice and Datacards.

Chaos Dice & Data Cards // Warhammer 40,000

The dice are simple and neat which is handy for the flurry of combat that will no doubt ensue on the tabletop. They aren't too busy which will make them easy to read on the tabletop and I like the Chaos Star on the face in place of a six.

The Datacards do as every other set of Datacards has done in the past. It comes with all of your Strategems and Psychic Powers in one place so you can sort out which you're going to be using during battle and have them handy. It stops a bit of flicking through books which is always handy.

Could you be tempted to start an army of Traitors for Warhammer 40,000?