Synapse creatures such as the Hive Tyrant empower nearby Termagants and Hormagaunts with Berserk, increasing movement speed and damage. Destroying the Synapse source temporarily stuns nearby lesser bioforms, according to the official faction-traits article.
A target-priority decision
When lesser Tyranids become faster and more dangerous around a larger bioform, identify whether a Synapse source is present. Removing that source can create a brief opening rather than requiring you to clear every empowered enemy individually.
That is a target-priority suggestion derived from the stated mechanic. It is not proof that rushing through a dense swarm is safe, and the source does not give a universal stun duration, aura radius or health threshold.
Keep an escape lane
Other Tyranid skills still matter while you address Synapse. The developer's enemy-skills guide describes Von Ryan's Leaper jumping over enemies to reach the player. A packed front rank does not guarantee that threats behind it cannot strike.
If you combine Burning and Oiled for damage, remember that Burning itself increases enemy movement speed. Faster movement can have more than one cause.
Do not import tabletop numbers
The game uses Warhammer faction identities, but its action mechanics are not the tabletop rules. This guide uses the developer's in-game description, not a miniature datasheet. It does not claim every large Tyranid is a Synapse emitter or that killing one ends every buff across the whole stage.
Sources & version notes
Official announcements and dated community references are distinguished below. Exact unpublished values are not inferred.
- Auroch Digital — Feature Focus: Faction Traits (2026-09-17)
- Auroch Digital — Feature Focus: Enemy Skills (2026-09-03)
Compiled from public sources. We have not personally played or tested these procedures. Check your installed build and its tooltips when details differ.