Quick answer
To start Warhammer 40K Combat Patrol, pick a faction you like the look of, build a balanced force with a leader and a mix of melee and ranged units, then learn the basic turn sequence and how to use cover.
Why faction choice matters more than stats
Combat Patrol is a narrative-driven skirmish game where your force's identity affects how you play. Don't just pick the strongest-looking unit—choose a faction whose backstory and playstyle appeal to you. For example, the Black Templars are a relentless crusading force that excels at aggressive melee charges, but they require careful positioning to avoid being flanked.
A common mistake is buying a single large box and assuming it's a complete army. Most starter forces need around 15–20 models, and a Combat Patrol box like the Black Templars set gives you exactly that: a leader (Emperor's Champion), elite troops (Bladeguard Veterans, Sword Brethren), and rank-and-file Crusaders. That balance lets you learn command roles without being overwhelmed.
The turn sequence: activation tokens and actions
Unlike many war games, Combat Patrol doesn't use initiative rolls. Instead, each model has an activation token. On your turn, you activate a model and perform one action (move, shoot, or fight). Then your opponent activates one of theirs. This back-and-forth continues until all models have activated.
The trade-off: activating a leader early lets you use their command abilities to buff nearby troops, but it also reveals your plan. A better beginner tactic is to activate a few grunt models first to test the enemy's reactions, then commit your leader when you see an opening.
Cover, line of sight, and the one-inch rule
Combat Patrol uses true line of sight: if you can see a model's base, you can shoot it. Cover blocks line of sight but also provides a save against incoming fire. A model behind a wall that is at least one inch tall is considered in cover and gets a defensive bonus.
The common mistake: new players bunch their models together for mutual support. This makes them easy targets for blast weapons and flanking moves. Instead, spread your force out, keeping each model within command range of the leader but separated by at least two inches to avoid area attacks.
Step-by-step beginner plan
- Choose your faction: Read the lore and look at model photos. Pick a faction whose aesthetic and playstyle you enjoy—you'll spend hours assembling and painting them. Don't rush this step; your enthusiasm for the faction will carry you through the learning curve.
- Assemble a balanced force: Start with one leader, 2–3 elite models, and 8–10 standard troops. The Black Templars box already provides this ratio. Avoid buying multiple boxes until you've played 3–4 games. A smaller force lets you learn activation order and command range without decision paralysis.
- Learn the activation sequence: Practice the back-and-forth activation system with a friend. Take one action per model: move, shoot, or fight. Do not try to activate all your models at once. The first game will feel slow. That's normal. Speed comes with repetition.
- Use cover and spread out: Place models behind walls or terrain at least one inch tall. Keep each model at least two inches from its nearest ally to avoid blast damage. If you lose a model to a single blast, you were too bunched up.
- Play the introductory scenario first: Most Combat Patrol boxes include a starter scenario. Play it as written, ignoring special rules or campaign options. Focus on movement, shooting, and melee. After 2–3 plays of the intro scenario, you'll be ready to add mission objectives and special abilities.
Product fact
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Warhammer 40K: Combat Patrol: Black Templars: The Black Templars Combat Patrol is led by the Emperor’s Champion, who leads a force of three Bladeguard Veterans, five Sword Brethren and 10 Crusaders. This single box gives you a complete, balanced starting force with a clear command hierarchy, so you can learn leader abilities and unit roles without needing extra purchases.
Warhammer 40K: Combat Patrol: Black Templars
