INTRODUCTION
Ever felt a thrill when two imaginative worlds collide on a tabletop? Or been ecstatic at the glimpse of a miniature army marching to conquests, painted and modelled by your own hands? If this resonates, then you’re just a beat away from plunging into the fascinating world of Warhammer 40K. A game where you’re not just a player but a general, a painter, and a storyteller, all combined into one! This beginner-friendly guide will help you understand what Warhammer 40k is, how to get started, what you need to play, some useful tips and resources, along with a helpful glossary of terms. So, prepare to journey into the grim dark future!
WHAT IS WARHAMMER 40K?
Warhammer 40,000, affectionately known as 40K amongst its fans, is a tabletop miniature wargame created by Rick Priestley and produced by Games Workshop. Set in a dystopian science fantasy universe, it allows you to lead your own armies of meticulously crafted miniatures into battle. The game is steeped in rich, complex lore that spans millennia, involving diverse factions like the humanoid Space Marines, insidious Chaos Gods, and even extraterrestrial races like the Orks or Eldar.
HOW IT WORKS/HOW TO GET STARTED:
The rules of Warhammer 40K can be intimidating at first, but don’t panic! The game is turn-based, with players taking turns to move their miniatures, shoot with their weapons, and engage in close combat. It commences with building an army from the miniatures you have painted, fulfilling certain combat roles and point costs. Here are steps to start:
1. Choose a Faction: Reflect on the lore and the aesthetics of each faction and choose one you connect with.
2. Build your Army: Buy miniatures and use a codex to build your army according to the rules.
3. Paint your Army: This is where your creativity shines. Paint your miniatures into life!
4. Learn to Play: Understand the rules step-by-step and start playing on a flat surface using makeshift terrain. As you get familiar with the rules, you can enhance your gaming experience with a full tabletop battlefield and detailed terrain.
WHAT YOU NEED TO PLAY (SUPPLIES, GEAR, SETUP)
To get started, you’ll need:
1. Starter Box: These contain everything you need to begin, including miniatures, rulebooks, and dice.
2. Paint and Brushes: To bring your miniatures to life.
3. Codex: The rulebook for your chosen faction, which helps in building your army.
4. Play Area: A flat surface, like a dining table, can work as your initial battlefield.
TIPS FOR ABSOLUTE BEGINNERS
1. Start Small: Invest in a Start Collecting box of your favourite faction.
2. Learn the Basics: Watch tutorials or read guides to grasp the basic game mechanics.
3. Practice Painting: Test your painting skills on less important miniatures first.
4. Find a Community: Whether online or locally, finding other players can help you learn faster.
5. Play Games: The best way to learn is by playing. Don’t be afraid of making mistakes!
HELPFUL RESOURCES
Check out the official Games Workshop website, YouTube channel Warhammer TV, or the Warhammer 40K subreddit for extensive guides and tutorials. Apps like BattleScribe can help manage your army lists.
GLOSSARY: COMMON TERMS EXPLAINED
1. Faction: Distinct groups or races in the Warhammer 40k universe.
2. Miniatures: The tiny detailed models that represent your army.
3. Codex: Rulebook for specific factions.
4. Terrain: Representations of buildings or natural landscape used on the battlefield.
5. Turn: A portion of the game in which a player performs their actions.
NEXT STEPS: WHERE TO GO FROM HERE
Start by investing in a Starter Box and begin painting your first miniatures. Once you’re comfortable, test your miniatures in a small game with friends or against yourself to learn the basics. And finally, remember – your journey into the Warhammer 40K universe is not a sprint, but a marathon. Enjoy the process, and the grim dark future will become a place of joy and fascination. Good luck, and may the Emperor guide your path!
