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Adeptus Custodes Codex for 10th Edition (First Look)

The elite bodyguards of the Emperor of Mankind, the Adeptus Custodes are a legendary force within the lore of Warhammer 40K, possessing almost unheard of combat prowess and a fanatical devotion to the Imperium.

Now, these elite golden-clad guardians are making their mark on Warhammer 40K 10th edition in the form of a brand new Adeptus Custodes Codex, which is coming out on April 27th, 2024 and is available for pre-order now from the Games Workshop website.

So just what new secrets await this latest entry in the annals of the Ten Thousand? Below, we break out everything we know so far.

The primary and alternate collector's editon cover to the new Adeptus Custodes Codex book for Warhammer 40K 10th editoin.

What’s included in The Adeptus Custodes Codex for 10th edition?

The new Codex is 112-pages and includes:

  • New lore exploring the role of the Adeptus Custodes and Sisters of Silence, their sub-factions, and how they’re recruited and trained
  • New artwork and photography showcasing Adeptus Custodes models
  • 18 datasheets with the profiles, weapons, and abilities of Adeptus Custodes and Sisters of Silence units
Official artwork from the Adeptus Custodes Codex for Warhammer 40K, featuring a group of Custodians charging into battle.
  • New Army Rules (including the new melee-focused Martial Ka’tah which allows you to choose between three separate battle “Stances”)
  • Four themed Detachments, including the Auric Champions and Null Maiden Vigil (notably the former also forms the basis of the new 10th edition Adeptus Custodes Battleforce).
  • New Crusade rules covering narrative play for the Adeptus Custodes
  • New rules and a painting guide for the new Adeptus Custodes Combat Patrol (known as “Tristraen’s Gilded Blades”)
Official Warhammer 40K art, featuring an Adeptus Custode warrior in power armor wielding a glowing blue power axe.

Notably, much of the official Custodes 10th edition content has already been published online by Games Workshop in the Custodes Army Rules PDF as well as the Warhammer 40K App.

That being said, there have been changes to the core rules that will be included in the new Codex, which is always a challenge when a new edition is released and evolves over time.

What’s Changed in the 10th edition Adeptus Custodes Codex?

While the 9th edition Adeptus Custodes Codex is several years old now, it has seen some dramatic changes with the 10th edition rules that were first revealed by GW in May 2023. This includes:

  • New & Updated Units: There were complaints that a number of units from 9th edition Adeptus Custodes units were somewhat limited. Updated units such as Prosectutors and Allarus Custodians are designed to address ongoing issues.
  • Faster and More Aggressive: New units and abilities reward a style of play that focuses on closing the gap with enemies and attacking at closer range.
  • Fewer Jetbikes: The 9th edition Adeptus Custodes leaned heavily into Jetbikes (much to the chagrin of many players). In 10th edition, bikes have been toned down with changes to their overall maneuverability.
Art from the Adeptus Custodes Codex for Warhammer 40K 10th edition, featuring a warrior on a jetbike.
  • More Sisters of Silence: In the 9th Edition codex, the Sisters of Silence datasheets were somewhat limited. The new edition gives them more options and tactical depth.
  • More Melee & Multiple Small Units: Small units (such as Allarus and Wardens) have been beefed up and can deliver more of a punch than they could in 9th edition.
Official Warhammer 40K art, featuring a squad of Adeptus Custodes in golden power armor on a landing platform, with explosions behind them in the distance.

How much is the New 10th Edition Adeptus Custodes Codex?

The Codex Supplement: Adeptus Custodes retails for $60 USD if you purchase it directly from Games Workshop, which is the price point that we’ve seen for other recent 10th edition Codexes (such as Space Marines and Dark Angels). The collector’s edition hardcover will retail for $100 USD.

As always, prices may vary if you buy the book from your local game store or from Amazon (where discounts and sales may allow you to pick him up for a bit cheaper.

Official Warhammer 40K art, featuring an Adeptus Custode warrior in power armor charging into battle with a guardian spear.

When Will the 10th edition Codex: Adeptus Custodes Be Released?

The Adeptus Custodes Codex will be available on April 27th, 2024. This does, however, apply only to users who purchased it via the Games Workshop website.

It’s possible that online and physical retailers may get their copies at different times, so if you’re planning on buying elsewhere, be sure to check with retailers first.

Official Warhammer 40K art, featuring an Adeptus Custode holding a guardian spear.

Final Thoughts

Many Warhammer 40K fans were critical of how the Ten Thousand were approached in 9th edition. With the new 10th edition Adeptus Custodes Codex, Games Workshop has addressed some of the factions well-known issues and offer more flexibility and depths.

You can purchase your copy now from the Games Workshop website. Below is also a recent video from Games Workshop that offers a sneak peak of the codex.

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Daniel Martin is located in Boston, Massachusetts and has been an avid wargamer for as long as he can remember. Black Templars remain his favorite Warhammer 40K army and he enjoys board games, cycling and spending way too much money on miniatures.

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