The Lychguard are the Necrons’ elite bodyguards, ancient warriors who’ve protected Necron nobility since before biotransference. They’re the ones you call when you absolutely, positively need a Phaeron to survive the battle.
What the Lychguard are
Lychguard are powerful Necron warriors of noble origin, serving as the personal protectors of Overlords and other high-ranking Necron royalty. They date back to the Necrontyr Infinite Empire, where they guarded Phaerons as retainers and guardians.
Since biotransference, they’ve become something more than soldiers. They never tire, never hesitate, and fight harder as the danger to their master grows. Their loyalty is absolute, and it’s been engineered into them: engram manipulation during biotransference turned a legendary reputation for incorruptibility into a guaranteed fact.
How they fight
Most Lychguard carry warscythes, heavy two-handed weapons that make them slow but nearly unstoppable in melee. A smaller number swap the warscythe for a hyperphase sword and dispersion shield, trading offensive punch for incredible durability. The shield’s interlocking force barriers can shrug off siege shells and defense laser blasts.
Their fighting style is all about precision. A Lychguard waits for the perfect moment, then delivers a single dismembering strike. Anything less than a flawless kill is a mark of shame, and some will seek out their sovereign to ask forgiveness for a botched blow.
More than bodyguards
Unlike Necron Warriors and Immortals, Lychguard retain much of their original personality and intelligence. That makes them useful as lieutenants or emissaries when a Lord or Overlord can’t risk appearing in person.
Their heavy ancient armour is normally reserved for nobility, which tells you something about how the Necrons view these soldiers. They’re not disposable. They’re the elite of the elite.
On the tabletop
The Lychguard miniature kit was released in November 2011 alongside Codex: Necrons (5th Edition). Designed by Dave Thomas, the plastic box can also be assembled as Triarch Praetorians, giving you two units from one kit.
In games, they’re a durable melee unit that can either hit hard with warscythes or tank damage with dispersion shields. They’re a common escort for Necron characters who need to survive a fight.
Key facts
- Lychguard are the elite bodyguards of Necron Overlords and Phaerons, dating back to the Necrontyr Infinite Empire.
- They never tire and never prioritise their own safety over their master’s, thanks to engram manipulation during biotransference.
- Most carry warscythes, but some use hyperphase swords and dispersion shields for extra durability.
- They retain more personality and intelligence than Warriors or Immortals, letting them serve as lieutenants or emissaries.
- The plastic kit was released in November 2011 and can also build Triarch Praetorians.
FAQ
What’s the difference between Lychguard and Triarch Praetorians?
Lychguard are bodyguards bound to a specific noble, while Triarch Praetorians serve the Silent King and the Triarch as a whole. The same plastic kit builds both units.
Are Lychguard better with warscythes or sword and shield?
It depends on what you need. Warscythes give you more killing power, while the dispersion shield makes them far tougher. Most lists pick one role and stick with it.
Do Lychguard have personalities?
Yes, more than most Necrons. Their armour preserves much of their original mind, so they can act as lieutenants and emissaries, more than silent guards.