What is the Beam Rule in Warhammer 40k?
The beam rule is a crucial part of the Warhammer 40k rulebook that affects the way models behave in combat. In this article, we’ll dive deep into the beam rule and its implications on your tabletop gaming experience.
Direct Answer: What is the Beam Rule in 40k?
The beam rule states that if an attack made with a beam weapon hits a unit, and the unit is more than 15 inches away from the firing model, an additional hit is scored against the unit. This rule is intended to model the concentration of beam weapons and the risk of being hit multiple times at a distance.
Understanding the Beam Rule
Before we dive into the intricacies of the beam rule, let’s establish a few key terms:
- Beam weapon: A beam weapon is any ranged weapon that shoots a concentrated beam of energy or light, such as a power sword or a fusion blaster.
- 15 inches: The distance beyond which the beam rule applies, measuring from the firing model to the unit being attacked.
How Does the Beam Rule Work?
Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how the beam rule works:
- Range check: Determine if the beam weapon is within range to attack the unit. If it’s within 15 inches, proceed to the next step. If it’s outside 15 inches, you’re done.
- Resolve the attack: Roll the necessary dice to resolve the attack. If the attack hits, proceed to the next step.
- Apply the beam rule: Since the unit is more than 15 inches away from the firing model, the beam rule applies. An additional hit is scored against the unit.
Beam Rule Examples
To better understand the beam rule, let’s go through some examples:
- Scenario 1: A Space Marine armed with a power sword attacks an Ork boyz squad at a distance of 18 inches. The power sword hits the Ork boyz. Due to the beam rule, the Ork boyz take an additional hit.
- Scenario 2: An Imperial Guard heavy bolter attacks an Eldar wave-serpent at a distance of 10 inches. The heavy bolter hits the wave-serpent. Since it’s within 15 inches, the beam rule doesn’t apply.
Beam Rule vs. Other Rules
When using the beam rule, keep the following in mind:
- Engagement range: If the unit is within engagement range of an enemy unit, the beam rule still applies. Engagement range refers to the range at which units are allowed to move and shoot simultaneously.
- Pistol shooting: Beam weapons can’t be used with pistols, as they’re designed to shoot individual rounds rather than concentrated beams of energy.
Consequences of the Beam Rule
The beam rule can have significant implications on your gameplay strategy:
- Long-range accuracy: With the beam rule, units within 15 inches of the firing model take a greater risk of being hit and killed by concentrated beams of energy.
- Combat strategies: Commanders must take the beam rule into account when positioning units and developing combat strategies.
In Conclusion
The beam rule is an important part of the Warhammer 40k rulebook that models the concentrated power of beam weapons at distance. By understanding the beam rule, you’ll be better equipped to manage risk and develop effective combat strategies.