A new dataslate is on the way for Warhammer 40K, and these are our guesses and expectations for how Chaos Space Marines will change as a result.
We are officially on the verge of a new balance dataslate for Warhammer 40K 10th Edition, and with it comes the familiar anticipation—mixed with worry and hope—that grips every player as they await the hammer to drop.
Will my perfect army list suddenly become obsolete overnight? Could my army gain unexpected buffs that make it even stronger?
This is the rhythm of Warhammer 40K, occurring roughly every three to four months. Here are our best guesses for how the upcoming dataslate might impact Chaos Space Marines in 2025.
Overall Chaos Space Marine Changes
On the whole, this should be a favorable update for CSM players. While the dataslate likely won’t drastically overhaul the army or its average list, most units could see slight buffs, especially if Games Workshop wants to maintain balance in the current Knight/Death Guard meta.
Chaos Space Marines have a few units that are arguably strong, but the majority are reasonably priced and balanced. This suggests many lists won’t require drastic changes, and players can expect to see more green on the datasheet than red.
Chaos Space Marine Units That Could Receive Buffs
Chosen
In a meta flooded with cheap, high-damage AP attacks, Chosen lose some of their competitive edge. Currently priced at 125 points, they feel slightly overvalued compared to Possessed at 120. A minor adjustment could restore their viability in both casual and competitive play.
Chaos Terminator Squad
CSM Terminators remain underwhelming, even with a minor cost reduction. Dropping points from 180 to 170 may not be enough to make this unit relevant, as Terminators currently struggle to fulfill their intended role in the meta. A meaningful adjustment is likely required before these elite units see consistent table play again.
Obliterators
Obliterators have largely fallen out of favor due to previous point and unit size reductions. Bringing their points down slightly (from 160 to 150–155) could restore their effectiveness as a shooting option. With potential nerfs elsewhere, CSM may need a more cost-effective method of ranged damage, and Obliterators could fill that role.
Chaos Space Marine Units That Could Receive Nerfs
Predators (All Variants)
The current meta is dominated by small, versatile hulls. Predators may be targeted in the dataslate to encourage more army diversity. While they aren’t game-breaking, Predators could face a slight points increase or rules adjustment, as could Vindicators, which currently feel reasonably priced but may become a target for balance.
Lord Discordant on Helstalker
Lord Discordant combines strong shooting, excellent melee, and solid datasheet rules. At 160 points, this unit can feel overpowered. A slight point increase is probable, keeping the unit viable but slightly nerfed for balance.
Allied Units: Plague Marines and Noise Marines
Allied units often bring extra benefits due to their original codex rules. Some CSM-specific abilities make them especially strong. Noise Marines in Renegade Raiders and Plague Marines in Creations of Bile may be targeted to reduce excess synergy. Expect adjustments that bring these units back in line with intended balance.
Conclusion & Next Steps
The upcoming dataslate is unlikely to completely upend Chaos Space Marine lists but may nudge the meta, offering small buffs to underperforming units and nerfs to the strongest ones. Players should prepare by reviewing current builds, experimenting with flexible unit combinations, and staying informed as updates are officially released.
Want to make sure your Chaos Space Marines stay competitive in 2025? Check out our Chaos Space Marine Tactics Guide, explore painting tutorials, and start adjusting your army lists today to be ready for whatever the next dataslate brings!
Husband, Florida State Seminole, and fan of all things grimdark, sometimes even winning a game or two.
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