Can You Advance When You Fall Back in Warhammer 40k?

No, you cannot Advance in the same turn that you Fall Back in Warhammer 40,000 (40k). The rules explicitly state that a unit within Engagement Range of enemy models can only either Fall Back or Remain Stationary. The Advance action is mutually exclusive with the Fall Back action. When a unit Falls Back, it relinquishes the ability to shoot or charge in that same turn, unless it has a special rule that overrides this restriction (such as some Ultramarines abilities or specific Sept Tenets for Tau). Let’s delve deeper into the mechanics of falling back and how it impacts your game strategy.

Understanding the Fall Back Mechanic

The Fall Back move is a crucial tactical option in 40k, allowing units trapped in melee combat to disengage and reposition. This is vital for several reasons:

• Preserving valuable units: Units that excel at shooting or are needed elsewhere on the battlefield might be tied down in unfavorable melee engagements. Falling Back allows them to escape and contribute more effectively.

• Setting up counter-attacks: By Falling Back, a unit can create space for other units to charge into the enemy that was previously engaged.

• Controlling the battlefield: Repositioning units through Falling Back can help control objectives or deny areas to the enemy.

How to Execute a Fall Back Move

When a unit chooses to Fall Back, it must adhere to the following rules:

1. Eligibility: Only units currently within Engagement Range of an enemy unit can Fall Back.
2. Movement: Models in the unit can move up to their Movement (M) characteristic.
3. Restrictions: Models cannot end their movement within Engagement Range of any enemy unit.
4. Consequences: A unit that Falls Back cannot declare a charge or shoot in the same turn, unless it is a Titanic unit or has a special rule allowing it.

Strategic Implications of Falling Back

The decision to Fall Back is rarely straightforward. Here’s a breakdown of factors to consider:

• Opportunity Cost: Falling Back means sacrificing your unit’s offensive capabilities for that turn. Assess whether the potential benefits of repositioning outweigh the loss of firepower or melee potential.

• Enemy Positioning: Consider where the enemy unit that’s engaged you might move next turn. Falling Back might leave you vulnerable to a subsequent charge or allow the enemy to consolidate its position.

• Support Options: Do you have other units that can capitalize on your Fall Back? A well-timed charge from a fresh unit can exploit the space you create.

• Objective Control: Falling Back might be necessary to contest or secure objectives, even if it means temporarily ceding ground.

FAQs About Falling Back in 40k

Here are some frequently asked questions to clarify the nuances of the Fall Back rule and related mechanics:

FAQ 1: Can I shoot after Falling Back if I’m an Ultramarine?

Yes, the Ultramarines Chapter Tactic often grants the ability to Fall Back and shoot. This is a key advantage, making them highly mobile and difficult to pin down in melee. However, this is edition dependent, so always check the current rules.

FAQ 2: Can I Fall Back and charge with Tau?

Certain Tau Sept Tenets and Stratagems can allow Tau units to Fall Back and charge in the same turn. This requires careful planning and often involves using a Commander unit to issue the appropriate command.

FAQ 3: Does Falling Back prevent me from using psychic powers?

Yes, unless your unit is a Titanic unit or has a special rule, a unit that Falls Back cannot attempt to manifest psychic powers in the same turn.

FAQ 4: Can I Fall Back if I’m engaged with multiple enemy units?

Yes, you can Fall Back if engaged with multiple enemy units. However, you must ensure that you do not end your movement within Engagement Range of any enemy unit.

FAQ 5: What happens if I can’t move far enough to get out of Engagement Range when Falling Back?

Unfortunately, if your unit’s Movement characteristic is insufficient to move out of Engagement Range, you cannot Fall Back. You’ll have to remain stationary and endure the engagement.

FAQ 6: Can I use a Stratagem to shoot after Falling Back?

Some Stratagems allow units to shoot after Falling Back. The Ultramarines’ Fall Back and Re-Engage Stratagem (or similar effects in other armies) is a prime example. These Stratagems are often crucial for armies that rely on mobility and shooting.

FAQ 7: Does Falling Back trigger Overwatch?

No, Overwatch is typically triggered when a unit declares a charge. Falling Back is a movement action, not a charge, and therefore does not trigger Overwatch.

FAQ 8: If I Fall Back, can I still perform an Action?

No, unless a specific rule states otherwise, a unit that Falls Back cannot perform any Actions that turn.

FAQ 9: Can a VEHICLE model Fall Back and shoot?

Whether a VEHICLE model can Fall Back and shoot depends on its specific rules and the rules of the edition being played. Some vehicles, particularly Titanic units, have abilities that allow them to do so.

FAQ 10: What happens if an enemy unit moves into Engagement Range after I’ve already moved but before the end of my turn?

Once you’ve completed your Fall Back move and are no longer within Engagement Range, you are free from its restrictions. If an enemy unit subsequently moves into Engagement Range, it does not retroactively prevent you from shooting or charging (unless it’s later in that turn).

FAQ 11: Can I Fall Back with a unit that’s performing a Psychic Action?

No. If a unit is performing a Psychic Action, it cannot move in the same turn. Since Falling Back is a form of movement, it is prohibited.

FAQ 12: Do Drones count for No Prisoners if they are destroyed when their host vehicle falls back and is subsequently destroyed?

Yes, DRONE models destroyed count towards No Prisoners if they are destroyed.

FAQ 13: If I Rapid Ingress a unit, can it Fall Back on my turn?

Yes, a unit that has been brought in via Rapid Ingress is subject to all normal rules. If it ends up in Engagement Range during your opponent’s turn, it can Fall Back during your subsequent Movement phase.

FAQ 14: Can I use the Command Re-roll stratagem when Falling Back?

Yes, you can use the Command Re-roll stratagem to re-roll any dice rolls made during the Fall Back move, such as those related to determining the distance moved.

FAQ 15: Are there any units that cannot Fall Back?

Some units may have special rules or abilities that prevent them from Falling Back, such as being rooted or having other impairments to their movement. Always check the unit’s datasheet for any such restrictions.

Mastering the Art of Tactical Withdrawal

The Fall Back move is more than just a way to escape melee. It’s a strategic tool that, when used correctly, can significantly impact the flow of battle. Understanding its limitations and opportunities is crucial for success in Warhammer 40k.

For further exploration into game mechanics and learning strategies, consider visiting the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org for valuable insights and resources.