INTRODUCTION
Do you consider yourself a fan of strategy games? Do you enjoy worlds teeming with dark, futuristic sci-fi? Then buckle up, because Warhammer 40K might just be your next major obsession. It’s a miniature wargame that thrives on grand strategy and narrative storytelling. But don’t worry if you’re a beginner or returning to the hobby after an absence. This guide has got your back, providing a beginner-friendly introduction to all things Warhammer 40K.
WHAT IS WARHAMMER 40K?
Warhammer 40,000 (or 40K) is a tabletop miniature wargame produced by British gaming company Games Workshop. Set in a dystopian future, it captures the darkest aspects of the 41st millennium. Think mighty warrior-monks, nightmarish aliens, and intense battles across alien worlds.
Originating in the late ’80s, Warhammer 40K has evolved into a rich universe complete with in-depth lore, novels, video games, and even animations. It might appear daunting at first, but it’s this depth and breadth that hooks players in, creating a rewarding experience that’s part strategy, part collection, and a whole lot of narrative.
HOW TO GET STARTED
Starting your journey in Warhammer 40K involves several steps:
1. First, pick your faction. Each army has its own lore, playstyle and aesthetics, choose the one that appeals to you the most.
2. Next, purchase your miniatures and start assembling. This can be a fun and challenging craft project.
3. Once your miniatures are assembled, it’s time to paint them. This is a personal process and another opportunity to add a creative touch.
4. Lastly, learn the rules. The core rulebook will serve as your guide to gameplay. Understand the mechanics, including dice rolling, movement, and combat.
WHAT YOU NEED TO PLAY
To play Warhammer 40K, you’ll need several things:
1. Miniatures: Start with a starter set which includes two armies and a condensed rulebook.
2. Rulebook: The Core Rulebook contains all the detailed instructions about how to play the game.
3. Dice: Required for gameplay to determine outcomes of actions.
4. Paints and Brushes: To customize your miniatures.
5. A Playmat: To serve as your battlefield.
TIPS FOR BEGINNERS
New to Warhammer 40K? Here are some practical tips:
1. Start small: Build and paint a Start Collecting set before you expand.
2. Learn the Lore: The backstory adds depth to the game and can influence decisions in the battlefield.
3. Practice Rules: Play some practice games to learn the mechanics.
4. Connect with other players: Join local game nights or online communities. They can offer help and guidance.
5. Have fun: Remember, it’s a hobby. Enjoy the process of learning, painting, and playing.
HELPFUL RESOURCES
Several online resources can help navigate Warhammer 40K. The Warhammer Community site, BattleScribe, and the /r/Warhammer40k subreddit are good places to start. YouTube channels such as Warhammer TV provide helpful painting guides and game tips.
GLOSSARY: COMMON TERMS EXPLAINED
1. Army: Your collection of miniatures.
2. Faction: The multitude of species or organizations that your army can represent.
3. Dice Roll: A primary mechanic to resolve combat and movement.
4. Points System: A balancing mechanism where each miniature or equipment has a points value.
5. Lore: The backstory and narrative context of the Warhammer 40K universe.
NEXT STEPS
Now that you know the basics, feel free to explore deeper into Warhammer 40K’s diverse universe. May I suggest joining a local gaming community to meet fellow hobbyists? Online, you could view Warhammer TV’s tutorials or read the myriad of novels and lore. Remember, this is just the beginning of your Warhammer 40K journey. Stick with it, and you’ll find a hobby that’s rewarding, exciting, and endlessly engaging. Welcome to the grim darkness of the 41st millennium!
