Adeptus Custodes are the Emperor’s golden bodyguards: absurdly elite, absurdly durable, and hilariously low model count. If you want an army where every model feels like a boss, welcome home.
What this faction is about
Custodes are super-elite warriors with master-crafted gear. Their army identity is quality over quantity: fewer models, higher toughness, and strong individual performance.
Tabletop playstyle
Control key zones with tough units, pick decisive fights, and avoid getting dragged into wasting time on chaff. Custodes often win by simply refusing to die while scoring steadily.
Strengths
· Excellent durability and reliable melee.
· Low model count makes collecting and transporting easy.
· Every unit feels impactful; very little ‘filler’.
Watch-outs
· Board coverage: fewer bodies means you must plan objective control carefully.
· Bad matchups into extreme volume of fire or massed mortals can be rough.
· Trading mistakes hurt because you don’t have many spare pieces.
Collecting and painting
Gold armour can look incredible with very simple techniques: metallic base, wash, highlight, and you’re done. You can keep schemes clean and regal or go grimdark with weathering—both work.
Great first buys
· A durable core infantry unit to anchor objectives.
· A fast unit to reach far objectives or respond to threats.
· A leader to enhance reliability and add utility.
· Optional: a heavy support/vehicle to add ranged pressure.
Who this army suits
Pick Custodes if you want a compact, premium-feeling army that dominates up close and punishes opponents who try to out-muscle you.
