INTRODUCTION
Hello there, future Overlord of the Galaxy! Whether you’re completely new to the realm of tabletop gaming or simply returning after a long while, this beginner-friendly guide to Warhammer 40,000 (often referred to as Warhammer 40K or simply 40K) is designed to welcome you into the grim darkness of far future. It’s intense, it’s captivating, and above all else, it calls upon your strategic wit to seize victory! Intrigued? Hold onto your power armor as we dive in!
WHAT IS WARHAMMER 40K?
Created by Games Workshop in 1987, Warhammer 40,000 is a tabletop miniature wargame set in a dystopian science fantasy universe. It’s a universe where civilizations spanning galaxies are eternally at war with each other. Be it the mighty human Imperium, the treacherous Chaos forces, enigmatic alien races, each faction in Warhammer 40K boasts unique lore and captivating stories. Imagine playing chess, but with richly detailed miniature models, a wealth of lore to immerse yourself in, and dynamic rules. That’s Warhammer 40K for you!
HOW IT WORKS / HOW TO GET STARTED
Warhammer 40K is all about strategic battle between armies, depicted by miniature models, which you assemble and paint yourself. Here’s some simple steps to get you started:
1. Choose a Faction: The first step is choosing your army. With various factions available, take time to explore each – their aesthetic, lore, and playing style.
2. Purchase Your Miniatures: Once you’ve chosen an army, buy a starter set. This box contains everything you need to begin your journey.
3. Learn the Rules: Warhammer 40K has a rulebook that explains how battles are fought. Some starter sets include a simplified set of them.
4. Build and Paint Your Army: Assemble your miniature models with glue then let your imagination run wild, painting them to bring your army to life.
5. Play the Game: Using a playing surface (called a ‘battlefield’), you and your opponent deploy your armies and engage in strategic battles according to the rules, with dice determining the outcome of actions.
WHAT YOU NEED TO PLAY
To kickstart your campaign in Warhammer 40K, here are a few must-haves:
1. Miniatures: Start with a starter set or ‘Start Collecting’ box of your chosen faction.
2. Rulebook: This lays out everything you need to know to play Warhammer 40K.
3. Dice and Measuring Tape: These are crucial game implements.
4. Hobby Supplies: You will need items like plastic cutters, model glue, and a range of acrylic paints for assembling and painting your miniatures.
TIPS FOR BEGINNERS
1. Take your time researching the factions to find the one you connect the most.
2. Keep it simple. Start with a small army. It’s easier to manage, assemble, and paint.
3. Be patient with painting. It’s an acquired skill but can be highly rewarding.
4. Learn from others. Join local games clubs or online communities to share tips and experiences.
5. Enjoy the journey. Remember, the goal is having fun!
HELPFUL RESOURCES
Check out Games Workshop’s website and YouTube channel for tutorials and updates. Warhammer-community.com is also great for news and articles. Reddit (r/warhammer40k) and Discord communities offer invaluable advice and camaraderie. Apps like BattleScribe help manage your army lists.
GLOSSARY
1. Army: A force of models led by a player.
2. Faction: Different species or groups in the lore that a player can choose to lead.
3. Miniatures (or Minis): The models that represent the combatants in the game.
4. Turn: A sequence of game play where one player completes all their actions.
5. Battlefield: The play surface where the game is played.
NEXT STEPS
Now that you’ve learnt the basics of Warhammer 40K, why not discover the faction that aligns with you and get your first set of miniatures? Visit a local hobby shop, participate in a demo game, or join an online group. Embrace the journey: the more you play, the more you’ll love the game. Remember: In the grim darkness of the far future, there is only war – but it’s a thrilling one at that! Welcome to the world of Warhammer 40,000!
