Objective markers are one of those things that feel small until they start causing problems. Then suddenly every movement phase is awkward, measurements are messy, and someone is asking if a model can “fit there.”
In Warhammer 40K 10th Edition, objectives are meant to be clean reference points. Not terrain. Not obstacles. Not scenic set pieces. Just clear, neutral markers that keep the game flowing.
That is exactly why more players are switching to custom objective markers.
The Job of an Objective Marker in 10th Edition
In 10th Edition, objective markers are used to determine control, not physical occupation.
Models do not stand on objectives. They do not sit on them. They control them by being within range.
A model is within range if it is:
- Within 3 inches horizontally
- Within 5 inches vertically
Each model has an Objective Control (OC) value. You add up the OC of all models in range. The player with the higher total controls the objective. If the totals are equal, the objective is contested.
Because of this, the physical design of your objective markers matters a lot more than people realize.
Why Flat Objective Markers Are the Gold Standard
In 10th Edition, models can move over objective markers, but they cannot end a move on top of them.
That single rule is why tall, chunky, or scenic objective markers cause issues. If a marker has walls, height, or weird shapes, it can:
- Block legal movement
- Create awkward spacing problems
- Accidentally function like terrain
- Slow the game down with constant micro-adjustments
Flat objective markers avoid all of that. They stay out of the way, keep movement clean, and let the rules work the way they are supposed to.
Why Size Matters More Than People Think
In Warhammer 40K 10th Edition, objective markers are recommended to be 40mm in diameter.
That size is not random. It is big enough to see clearly, small enough to not interfere with movement, and consistent for measurement.
If you want a full breakdown of size and placement, this article covers it in detail: How Big Are Objective Markers in Warhammer 40K 10th Edition?
Why Scenic Objectives Cause Real Gameplay Problems
Scenic objectives look great in photos. On the table, they often cause friction.
Because objective markers must have space around them and cannot be directly jammed against impassable terrain, large scenic pieces can force awkward placement. They can also make it physically impossible for models to move around an objective without bumping things.
This is where games slow down. This is where arguments start. This is where the fun quietly leaks out.
Flat custom markers remove that friction. They are visible without being intrusive.
Custom Markers Improve Measurement and Fairness
All measurements to and from objective markers are taken to the closest part of the marker.
When a marker has odd shapes, raised edges, or decorative elements, that becomes unclear fast. Players start eyeballing. Then debating. Then re-measuring.
A clean, flat circle eliminates that. The edge is obvious. The distance is obvious. The interaction is clean.
Why This Matters Even More on Dense Tables
Modern 40K tables are more terrain-dense than ever. That is a good thing. It creates better games.
But it also means space is at a premium. When objective markers are bulky or awkward, they start competing with terrain for real estate.
If you are thinking about table layout, this pairs well with: How Much Terrain Do You Actually Need for Warhammer 40K?
Custom Does Not Mean Complicated
A lot of players hear “custom objective markers” and think it means fragile, fancy, or annoying.
The reality is the opposite. Good custom markers are:
- Flat
- Durable
- Easy to move
- Easy to see
- Hard to accidentally bump
They are designed for real games, not display cabinets.
Why So Many Players Are Switching
Once you play a few games with clean, flat, properly sized objective markers, it is hard to go back.
Turns are faster. Movement is smoother. Measurements are cleaner. And the table just feels better to play on.
That is why players who care about flow and fairness tend to land here: 3D6 Objective Markers
Objective Markers Are Not Just Accessories
They are part of the core game loop. They affect movement, scoring, and positioning every single turn.
If you are investing in armies, terrain, and time, it makes sense to invest in the pieces that literally decide who wins.
If you are newer to the game, this guide is a good foundation: What Do I Actually Need To Play Warhammer 40K?
The Bottom Line
In Warhammer 40K 10th Edition, objective markers should:
- Be 40mm in diameter
- Be flat
- Not interfere with movement
- Not function as terrain
- Make measuring clean and obvious
Custom objective markers do exactly that. They remove friction, speed up games, and make every phase feel smoother.
It is a small change that has an outsized impact.
If you are ready to stop fighting your table and start enjoying it: Shop 3D6 Objective Markers