In Warhammer 40,000 the first turn is often crucial in determining the outcome of the game.
As a defender, you'll need to be prepared to hold your ground and protect your key units. Here are some strategies you can use to be effective on your first turn as a defender:
Deploy wisely:
Before the game begins, you'll need to deploy your units on the board. It's important to carefully consider how you deploy your units, as this can have a major impact on your chances of success. Try to deploy your units in a way that maximizes their firepower and durability, while also making it difficult to engage in close combat with your opponent.
Use cover and terrain:
One of the greatest advantages you have as a defender is the ability to use cover and terrain to your advantage. Make sure you understand how cover works and use it to protect your units from enemy fire. You can also consider using terrain features, such as buildings or forests, to block your opponent's line of sight or limit their mobility.
Focus on key units:
Every army has a few key units that are essential to its success. As a defender, it's important to focus on these units and try to protect them from enemy fire. This may involve using cover or terrain to your advantage, or using special abilities to keep your units alive.
Use your special abilities:
Many armies have access to special abilities or wargears that can give them an advantage in combat. Make sure you understand how these abilities work and use them to your advantage. For example, you can use a psychic power to weaken your opponent's units or use a wargear ability to buff your own units.
Pay attention to your opponent:
As in any tabletop wargame, it's important to pay attention to your opponent's moves and tactics. Try to anticipate their next moves and counter them accordingly. You can also consider using psychological warfare, such as tricking your opponent into making a mistake or using psychological tricks to throw them off balance.
Manage your resources:
In 40K, you'll have a limited number of units and resources at your disposal, and it's important to use them wisely. Make sure you don't overcommit to any one area of the board and be prepared to adapt your tactics if necessary.
Use your army's strengths:
Every 40K army has its own strengths and weaknesses, and it's important to play to your army's strengths. For example, if your army is particularly adept at long-range firepower, you might want to focus on using your ranged weapons to take out enemy units from a distance.
Don't be afraid to fall back:
As a defender, you may find yourself in a situation where it's better to retreat and regroup rather than try to hold your position. Don't be afraid to retreat and move to a more defensible position if it gives you a better chance of success.
In conclusion
Overall, being effective on turn 1 as a defender requires a combination of strategy, skill, and dexterity.