INTRODUCTION
Welcome, future Battle-Brother or Sister! If you’re reading this, you’re probably curious about Warhammer 40,000 (often known as Warhammer 40K or simply 40K), a tabletop war game set in a dystopian sci-fi universe. Produced by Games Workshop, this game is engaging, challenging, and incredibly enjoyable. Whether you’re diving into this universe for the first time or emerging from the Warp after a lengthy hiatus, this beginner-friendly guide is here to help you navigate the immensity of Warhammer 40K.
WHAT IS WARHAMMER 40K?
Warhammer 40K is a tabletop wargame where players use miniature models to simulate futuristic battles between various races and factions in a dark, gothic space setting. The game originated in the UK around the mid-1980s and has since blossomed into a massive franchise with novels, video games, and even a movie. It’s akin to games like Dungeons & Dragons, but set in the far-flung future and with much more emphasis on large-scale war.
In 40K, you might control a force of Space Marines, heroic super-soldiers in power armor, or perhaps lead an alien Tyranid Swarm, a devouring, insect-like horde. These are just two of the numerous potential armies, each with its unique history, strategies, and playstyle within the overarching narrative of the 41st Millennium.
HOW IT WORKS OR HOW TO GET STARTED
To get started with Warhammer 40K, you first need to choose an army that appeals to you. This might be based on their lore, aesthetics, or playstyle. Each army comes with a codex that explains its unique rules and history.
The game is typically played on a 6×4 foot board, which can be adorned with scenery to represent a war-torn landscape. Each turn consists of several phases, including movement, shooting, and melee combat. In each phase, you can move your models, fire with their weapons, or engage in tooth-and-nail combat, depending on the phase and the capabilities of your units.
A primary mechanic is the use of dice to determine the success or failure of actions. For example, rolling a ‘6’ might result in a devastating shot that obliterates an enemy, while rolling a ‘1’ could mean that your gun has jammed!
WHAT YOU NEED TO PLAY
To play Warhammer 40K, you’ll need a few key items. The first is an army of models, which you’ll paint and assemble yourself. You’ll also need the core rulebook, as well as your army’s specific codex.
Next, you’ll require dice and measuring tapes to make sense of in-game mechanics. And lastly, you’ll be needing a playspace, usually a tabletop with some terrain pieces to simulate the landscapes of the 41st Millennium. While not required, additional supplies like model paints, brushes, and hobby tools for assembling your models can be extremely helpful.
TIPS FOR BEGINNERS
1. Start small: Instead of buying a large army, get a small one and expand as you grow more comfortable.
2. Engage with the community: There are numerous places to chat about 40K, find strategies and discuss lore. Online forums, local games stores, and game nights are great places to start.
3. Practice makes perfect: The only way to improve is to play games and learn from your mistakes.
4. Be patient: Assembling and painting models takes time and patience. Don’t rush it, enjoy the process.
5. Rule of cool: Choose an army because you love the aesthetics or lore, not just because they’re powerful on the tabletop.
HELPFUL RESOURCES
There are countless resources for learning Warhammer 40K! The Games Workshop website and Warhammer Community blog are great for official updates and articles. The Warhammer 40K subreddit and various Facebook groups are brilliant for community interaction. For tutorials on painting and modeling, YouTube is a treasure trove of information – Channels like Warhammer TV and MiniWarGaming have comprehensive guides.
GLOSSARY
1. Army: A player’s collection of models representing a faction, used in games.
2. Codex: The rulebook for a specific faction, including lore, model stats, and special rules.
3. Dice Roll: Many game mechanics rely on rolling dice, typically six-sided ones.
4. Models: The miniatures used to represent troops, vehicles, and more on the battlefield.
5. Terrain: Physical scenery on the game board that can affect movement, line of sight, etc.
6. Phases: Turns in Warhammer 40K are split into phases like Movement, Shooting, and Charge.
NEXT STEPS
Chances are, you’re excited to start your journey in the Warhammer 40K universe. Your next step is getting a small force of your chosen faction, the rulebook, and some dice. Then, assemble and paint your models, find someone to battle with, or join a local gaming group. Remember, the most important rule is to have fun! Welcome to the thrilling universe of Warhammer 40K. Trust in the Emperor, for he is with you at the start of this fantastic journey.
That’s all you need to get started with Warhammer 40K. You have now taken your first steps to becoming a stalwart commander of the 41st Millennium. Happy wargaming!
