INTRODUCTION
Welcome to the fascinating world of Warhammer 40K! Whether you’re completely new to tabletop games, or returning after a hiatus, you’re in for a treat. Warhammer 40K is an immersive tabletop game that combines strategy, beautiful miniatures, and a rich backstory, offering a fulfilling and engaging experience. Fear not, this guide will break down all you need about this incredible game in the most beginner-friendly way!
WHAT IS WARHAMMER 40K?
Warhammer 40K, oftentimes referred to as ’40K,’ is a miniatures-based tabletop game created by Games Workshop. Its key draw involves players collecting, building, painting, and then battling with miniature armies on a battlefield of their own making. Set in the 41st Millennium, a grim future beset by endless galactic wars, Warhammer 40K is known for its intricate lore that is as engrossing as the game itself, akin to epic fantasy franchises like ‘Star Wars’ or ‘Lord of the Rings.’
HOW IT WORKS / HOW TO GET STARTED
At its core, Warhammer 40K is a strategic battle game. Two players gather their armies, predicated on points value, and then face each other on a battlefield. Here’s a simplified step-by-step process:
1. Choose your Faction: From Space Marines to Eldar, there are a dozen unique factions with diverse playstyles to choose from.
2. Build your Army: You’ll collect and assemble your miniatures into a battle-ready force.
3. Set up the Battlefield: You and your opponent will then create a battlefield using terrain pieces either bought or homemade.
4. Commence Battle: Using a combination of dice rolls and strategy, you seek to meet your defined objectives and outmaneuver your opponent.
WHAT YOU NEED TO PLAY
To participate in Warhammer 40K, at a minimum you’ll need:
1. Miniatures: Start with a starter box for your chosen faction.
2. Rulebook: This contains all the rules for playing games of Warhammer 40,000
3. Dice and Rulers: For measuring moves and determining outcomes.
4. Tools & Paint: To assemble and customize your miniatures.
5. Optional: scatter terrain pieces to build your battlefield.
TIPS FOR ABSOLUTE BEGINNERS
1. Start Small: Focus on small games to learn the rules.
2. Painting: Start with basic colors before venturing into detailed painting.
3. Practice: The key to success in 40K lies in understanding the strengths and weaknesses of your army.
4. Community: Join a local 40K group or online forums for advice and support.
5. Have Fun: The aesthetic aspect of Warhammer 40K is significant. Enjoy building and painting your armies!
HELPFUL RESOURCES
1. Games Workshop Website: For official updates, lore and products.
2. YouTube: Channels like ‘WarhammerTV’ or ‘Tabletop Tactics’ provide tutorials, battle reports, and tips.
3. Online Communities: Such as ‘DakkaDakka’ or r/Warhammer40k on Reddit.
GLOSSARY
Here are some common terms you’ll come across in Warhammer 40K:
1. Faction: The various species or groups within the Warhammer 40k universe.
2. Miniatures: Small models that represent units in your army.
3. Deployment: How you set your miniatures on the battlefield at the start of a game.
4. Dice Roll: Used to determine outcomes in the game.
5. Terrain: Objects placed on the battlefield that can block or impede movement and visibility.
NEXT STEPS
Once you’ve got the basics down, your immediate next step should be to buy a beginner’s set or pick up a starter box of your chosen faction. Look for a local games store or hobby shop where you can get your hands on your first few pieces. As you continue to play and improve, you’ll find that Warhammer 40K isn’t just a game, but a rich hobby that offers endless enjoyment! Welcome to the world of Warhammer 40K!
