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So I'm kinda confused a bit here, the rule books in the starter kits say that when you buy a box of models the basic rules to use them are included. However I've seen posts saying this isn't always the case. Clearly blister packs of characters don't have rules in them, and old stock won't have them, but which boxes of models do include the rules?

Newer boxes that largely just hold rules based around power levels. They're usually in the back of the instruction manual. In general they seem to be the bare minimum required to allow someone to play with models without being required to buy a codex, but still basically requiring players to buy a codex to play in anything resembling a competitive fashion.

I just bought a new box and it had the rules for the figures just like a codex listing. Stats and weapon options. No explanation of general army rules. Full explanations for rules unique to the model. There are no point costs just PLs.

Anything that has been repackaged for 8th should have the datasheets for the models - so the likes of the Eldar SC box, the Tyranids SC box, and the Primaris kits. I don’t have a complete list; it’s not apparent on their website, but if they’ve been reboxed into the new 8th edition packaging, they should have the datasheets. Good bet is if there’s a codex out for 8E and the model is plastic, I’ll bet they come with their datafax.

However, the datasheets critically lack point values for matched play - can’t remember if they have power levels offhand, but I don’t think they do.

 Stormonu wrote:
Anything that has been repackaged for 8th should have the datasheets for the models - so the likes of the Eldar SC box, the Tyranids SC box, and the Primaris kits. I don’t have a complete list; it’s not apparent on their website, but if they’ve been reboxed into the new 8th edition packaging, they should have the datasheets. Good bet is if there’s a codex out for 8E and the model is plastic, I’ll bet they come with their datafax.

However, the datasheets critically lack point values for matched play - can’t remember if they have power levels offhand, but I don’t think they do.

They do.

I'm looking at the Custodes ones and they're identical to the entries in the Codex. The only special rule that's not explained on them is "Aegis of the Emperor" and I'm pretty sure you can find that on the Warhammer Community site in the preview articles anyway.

You'd still probably want the Codex for Matched Play points, Relics, Stratagems, etc., but it's certainly enough to play with.

Oh I'll probably be picking up the codices I want soon, but last trip to the shop I could only splurge for the BrB and some paints.

Not a lot of players where I live so most games will probably be pretty simple as I'm sure I'll have to teach anyone willing to play. Plus I don't feel bad cutting up instructions after I'm done with them to make data sheets.

Another thing I like about the get you by rules is that you can buy stuff from different factions and still be able to test it out without having to buy books or download them.

But that sounds like good advice, new box and plastic = probably rules. Thanks!