The Unforgiven's Steel Fist: Dark Angels Combat Patrol Deep Dive

The Lions of Caliban descend once more, not just as a full-fledged Chapter, but as a tightly coiled strike force ready for the new age of Warhammer 40,000. Games Workshop's latest Dark Angels Combat Patrol isn't merely a collection of miniatures; it's a strategic primer for the Unforgiven, offering both new recruits and veteran Chapter Masters a potent entry point into the grim darkness of the far future. After sifting through the initial reports on its contents, rules, and projected value, it's clear this isn't just another box—it's a statement.

At the core of this new Dark Angels Combat Patrol lies a truly robust selection of units. Leading the charge is a Captain in Terminator Armour, a stoic and unyielding commander whose presence bolsters the elite Deathwing Terminators. Five of these venerable warriors, armed with storm bolters and power fists, form the durable backbone of the force, capable of shrugging off punishing fire and delivering devastating counter-blows. Supporting them are five Intercessors, the bedrock of any Space Marine army, providing reliable ranged fire and holding objectives with their standard-issue bolt rifles. Finally, adding a significant punch, is a Redemptor Dreadnought – a walking fortress of ceramite and adamantium, armed with a heavy onslaught gatling cannon and a macro plasma incinerator, capable of tearing through infantry and vehicles alike. The synergy here is palpable: a durable, hard-hitting core that exemplifies the methodical, unyielding nature of the Dark Angels. Within the streamlined Combat Patrol ruleset, where units operate with simplified datasheets and fixed loadouts, this force presents a balanced threat, emphasizing tactical positioning and target prioritization rather than complex list building. It's a fantastic showcase of 10th Edition's core mechanics without the overwhelm of a full-scale game.

From a lore perspective, this Combat Patrol is a pitch-perfect representation of the Dark Angels' operational doctrine. The inclusion of the Captain in Terminator Armour and the Deathwing Terminators immediately evokes the Chapter's most secretive and revered companies, the guardians of their ancient secrets and the relentless hunters of the Fallen. This isn't just a generic Space Marine force; it's distinctly *Dark Angels*. The Intercessors represent the newer, primaris-era recruits, seamlessly integrated into the Chapter's ancient traditions, while the Redemptor Dreadnought underscores their technological might and willingness to deploy overwhelming force when necessary. This boxed set doesn't just give you models; it hands you a slice of the Chapter's identity, allowing you to field a force that feels authentic to the lore of the Unforgiven, even in a skirmish format. It’s a compelling narrative packaged for the tabletop, inviting players to delve deeper into the mysteries of Caliban and the First Legion.

So, is this new Dark Angels Combat Patrol a worthy acquisition? Unequivocally, yes. For new players, it offers an incredible entry point into Warhammer 40,000, providing a well-rounded, resilient, and tactically interesting force right out of the box. The simplified Combat Patrol rules make learning the game intuitive, allowing for immediate tabletop action. For existing Dark Angels enthusiasts, it’s a fantastic way to either start a new force, expand an existing one, or simply acquire some key units at a significant discount. The value proposition, a perennial concern for any wargamer, appears strong, offering substantial savings over purchasing these units individually. The cohesive unit selection ensures a satisfying play experience, whether you're battling friends or participating in organized Combat Patrol events. It’s a masterclass in how to package a compelling thematic and mechanical experience for a specific faction. Dark Angels Combat Patrol