INTRODUCTION
Welcome, rookies, to the epic universe that is Warhammer 40,000 (often shortened to Warhammer 40K or just 40K), an enthralling and complex tabletop game filled with intricate miniatures, strategic battles and deep, immersive lore. This beginner-friendly guide is designed to help you understand all you need to know to take your first steps into this expansive and richly detailed world. We promise there are few things as satisfying as when your finely painted army prevails over an opponent in fierce tabletop battle.
WHAT IS WARHAMMER 40K?
Warhammer 40K is a miniature wargame created and produced by the UK company Games Workshop. Set in a dystopian future where war is constant amongst intergalactic civilizations, the game involves armies made up of painted, assembled miniatures, which players use to engage in strategic battles on a tabletop. Like a board game on steroids, Warhammer 40K combines the aspects of creative painting and assembly with strategic planning and play. Consider it like chess, but instead of merely black and white pieces, you have finely painted miniatures representing various factions, engaging in complex and varied forms of combat.
HOW IT WORKS / HOW TO GET STARTED
The fundamental gameplay of Warhammer 40K is based on turn-based tactical combat. Each player takes turns to maneuver their units, cast spells, and engage in combat. Don’t worry about the complexity; we care more about firing up your interest first.
1. Choose a Faction: The first step in Warhammer 40K is selecting a faction that matches your style. Whether it be the noble Space Marines, the arcane Eldar, or relentless Orcs, find a faction that captivates you visually and mechanically.
2. Gather Your Army: After selecting your faction, you’ll need miniatures. You can start with a small force and grow later.
3. Assemble and Paint: Your miniatures come unassembled and unpainted. Assembling the troops is part of the fun, as is painting them in your chosen colors.
4. Understand the Rules: Get your hands on a copy of the Warhammer 40K rulebook to get acquainted with the mechanics of the game.
5. Battle: Once you have your army and understand the rules, it’s time to put your strategy to the test in turn-based battles.
WHAT YOU NEED TO PLAY (SUPPLIES, GEAR, SETUP)
To get started with Warhammer 40K, you’ll need a few things:
1. Miniatures: These form your army. You can start with a ‘Start Collecting!’ box that contains a small force of a particular faction.
2. Rulebooks: You’ll need a copy of the base Rulebook and also your faction’s respective Codex.
3. Hobby Supplies: For assembling and painting your miniatures, you would need model glue, paints, brushes, and clippers.
4. Dice and Rulers: Dice control the outcomes of battles, and a ruler measures distances on the battlefield.
TIPS FOR ABSOLUTE BEGINNERS
1. Start Small: Begin with a few miniatures and gradually expand your army.
2. Attend Workshops: Games Workshop often holds beginner workshops on painting, assembly, and gameplay basics.
3. Practice Makes Perfect: Play as many practice games as you can.
4. Protective Finish: Applying a transparent, protective finish can extend the life of your painted miniatures.
5. Join a Community: Connecting with fellow players can help you learn the game faster and make it far more enjoyable.
HELPFUL RESOURCES
Websites:
– Warhammer Community: Official website with news, models, hobby guides.
– Dakkadakka: Forum with loads of tips, tricks, and guide.
YouTube Channels:
– Warhammer TV: This provides painting tutorials.
– MiniWarGaming: Buffered with battle reports and gameplay strategies.
Communities:
– Reddit: Subreddits like r/Warhammer40k are great places to ask questions and share experiences.
GLOSSARY: COMMON TERMS EXPLAINED
1. Army: The collection of miniatures you use in a game.
2. Faction: The different races in the game, like Space Marines, Necrons.
3. Dice: Used to determine the outcome of actions.
4. Battlefield: The playing surface where battles occur.
5. Codex: Faction-specific rulebook.
NEXT STEPS: WHERE TO GO FROM HERE
Diving into the thrilling world of Warhammer 40K can seem daunting, but excitement and enjoyment are waiting just around the corner. Start small with a faction that captivates you, get familiar with the rules, practice painting and assembling, and participate in a few battles. The lore, camaraderie, and excitement of Warhammer 40K are sure to capture your imagination and have you hooked in no time. The adventure is only just beginning—welcome to Warhammer 40K!
