The Broodlord is the Tyranids’ top-tier Genestealer, a synapse creature that leads broods in bloody ambushes and stays linked to the Hive Mind. It’s the first Genestealer to hit a planet, and it’s a nightmare in close combat.
What is a Broodlord?
Think of it as a Genestealer that’s been promoted. Broodlords are the epitome of the Genestealer breed, bigger, stronger, and smarter than their kin. They’re the perfect blend of infiltration and lethality, using their claws and talons to tear through armour and flesh.
They’re synapse creatures, so they keep their pack connected to the Hive Mind and relay its will to nearby Genestealers. That link is what turns a scattered infestation into a coordinated swarm. They’re smart enough to coordinate infiltrations and ambushes, leading their packs in brutal attacks.
They’re always the first Genestealers to make planetfall when a Tyranid fleet infests a world. Once a hive fleet enters the system, the Hive Mind asserts direct control over the Broodlord and its clan, turning them into a coordinated killing force and an extension of its will.
The Ordo Xenos officially classifies the Broodlord as Corporator primus, though troops on the ground call it the Leech-Master.
On the tabletop
In 10th edition, the Broodlord is a character that leads a unit of Genestealers. It’s fast, tough, and hits hard in melee, with 5 attacks at Strength 6, AP -2, and Damage 2, plus devastating wounds and twin-linked. It’s tough for a Tyranid character, with 6 wounds, a 4+ invulnerable save, and a 4+ armor save.
Its Vicious Insight ability gives its unit devastating wounds, making their attacks even deadlier. Hypnotic Gaze forces an enemy unit in engagement range to subtract 1 from hit rolls for the rest of the phase. It also has Scouts 8″ and the Synapse and Shadow in the Warp faction abilities.
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| M | 8″ |
| T | 5 |
| Sv | 4+ |
| W | 6 |
| Ld | 7+ |
| OC | 1 |
| Invulnerable save | 4+ |
Broodlord vs Genestealer Patriarch
Don’t confuse the Broodlord with the Genestealer Patriarch. The Patriarch is a Genestealer Cults leader, born from a Genestealer that infects a human world and becomes the figurehead of a cult. The Broodlord is pure Tyranid, a synapse creature that serves the Hive Mind directly.
They fill similar roles as elite Genestealer leaders, but they belong to different factions and have different lore. The Broodlord is part of the Tyranid army list, while the Patriarch leads Genestealer Cults.
Notable Broodlords
A few Broodlords have earned names in the lore. Nemesis 9 Tyrantis, Shadowstalker, and the Spawn of Cryptus are among the most infamous. They’re not as famous as the Swarmlord, but they’re still dangerous individuals.
Key facts
- Broodlords are synapse creatures and the epitome of the Genestealer breed.
- They’re always the first Genestealers to make planetfall during a Tyranid invasion.
- In 10th edition, they lead Genestealers and grant them devastating wounds.
- They have a 4+ invulnerable save and 6 wounds, making them tough for a Tyranid character.
- The Ordo Xenos classifies them as Corporator primus, and troops call them the Leech-Master.
- Notable Broodlords include Nemesis 9 Tyrantis, Shadowstalker, and the Spawn of Cryptus.
FAQ
What is a Broodlord in Warhammer 40k?
It’s a Tyranid synapse creature and the ultimate Genestealer, leading broods in ambushes and staying linked to the Hive Mind.
Is a Broodlord the same as a Genestealer Patriarch?
No. The Patriarch leads Genestealer Cults, while the Broodlord is a pure Tyranid that serves the Hive Mind directly.
How good is the Broodlord in 10th edition?
It’s a strong melee character that boosts Genestealers with devastating wounds and debuffs enemies with Hypnotic Gaze. It’s not invincible, but it hits hard.
Can a Broodlord be used in any Tyranid army?
Yes, it’s a standard Tyranid character that can lead Genestealers in most detachments.
Is the Broodlord a psyker?
Yes, it has the Psychic keyword and can use powers like Hypnotic Gaze.