INTRODUCTION
Welcome to the mystical, thrilling, and enduringly fascinating universe of Warhammer 40,000 (40K)! If you’re reading this, it could be that you’ve been intrigued by those detailed models in a local game shop’s window, overheard friends passionately debating about Space Marines, or already dabbled in the game but want to deepen your understanding. Good news! This beginner-friendly guide is for you. Warhammer 40K captures the imagination with its strategic gameplay and immersive lore, offering a rewarding hobby that combines tabletop wargaming, artistic creativity, and serialized storytelling.
WHAT IS WARHAMMER 40K?
Warhammer 40K is a tabletop miniature wargame produced by Games Workshop, set in a dystopian sci-fi universe. In 40K, each player assembles a fighting force from one of many different factions (like the militaristic Adeptus Astartes or the humanoid alien Tau Empire), then battles it out on tabletop landscapes using a mix of strategy, dice-rolling, and rule interpretation.
Much like chess with a twist of Dungeons and Dragons, Warhammer 40k takes turn-based strategy games to a whole new level, enhanced by a rich lore that draws you into a grim, dark future where there’s only war.
HOW IT WORKS or HOW TO GET STARTED
Playing Warhammer 40K follows a few basic steps.
1. ASSEMBLE YOUR FORCE: You choose a faction and assemble an army, the size of which is determined by a points system. Each model or weapon in your army costs a certain number of points.
2. PREPARE THE BATTLEFIELD: The game is often played on a 6×4 foot tabletop, with varying types of terrain which influence the gameplay.
3. SET UP YOUR ARMY: Each game begins with players placing their forces on the battlefield, with most of the initial strategy revolving around the placement of your units.
4. TAKE TURNS: Players alternate phases (Movement, Shooting, Charge, Fight, and Morale) within each game turn, basically moving units, launching attacks, and resolving conflicts via dice rolls and rules interpretation. Whoever scores the most objectives (determined by the mission you’re playing), wins!
WHAT YOU NEED TO PLAY
To play Warhammer 40K, you’ll need a few things:
1. MINIATURES: You’ll need models representing your chosen army. The “Start Collecting!” boxes are often recommended for beginners.
2. RULEBOOK: The basic rules can be downloaded for free from Games Workshop, but the full rulebook offers a more detailed view.
3. DICE AND MEASURING TAPE: Standard six-sided dice are used to determine the result of actions, and a tape measure to navigate units on the battlefield.
4. TERRAIN AND GAME BOARD: This gives you a battlefield to play on and can be as simple or as elaborate as you’d like.
TIPS FOR ABSOLUTE BEGINNERS
1. START SMALL: Begin with a Start Collecting! Box and learn to assemble and paint before expanding your army.
2. KNOW YOUR ARMY: Learn the strengths and weaknesses of your chosen faction, and build your army accordingly.
3. ENGAGE WITH THE COMMUNITY: There’s a wealth of knowledge from veteran players online and in local gaming stores.
4. PRACTICE YOUR PAINTING: It’s an essential part of the hobby, and there are plenty of tutorials to help you get started.
5. ENJOY THE JOURNEY: Warhammer 40K is a rich hobby that extends beyond the game. Dive into lore, enjoy the painting, and have fun!
HELPFUL RESOURCES
There are many resources available to help you get started:
1. The Warhammer Community site is a great place to stay updated.
2. Warhammer TV on YouTube offers valuable painting tutorials.
3. Websites like DakkaDakka and Bolter and Chainsword host discussions on various topics related to Warhammer 40K.
4. Apps like BattleScribe can be of immense help in managing your army lists.
GLOSSARY: COMMON TERMS EXPLAINED
1. FACTION: The race or group that your army belongs to.
2. WARGEAR: The equipment given to your models.
3. CHARGE PHASE: The part of your turn when models can engage in close combat.
4. MORALE TEST: When a unit loses a member, you roll a die to determine if more flee.
5. WARHAMMER 40K UNIVERSE: The overarching storyline and setting for all Warhammer 40K games.
NEXT STEPS: WHERE TO GO FROM HERE
You’ve got your army, you know the basics, where to go from here? Play a game! Find a local gaming club, make friends, and try out your strategies. And remember, you’re just at the start of a grand journey full of epic battles, painting mastery, and fascinating lore. The deeper you delve into Warhammer 40k, the more engaging and rewarding it gets. Happy wargaming!
