INTRODUCTION
Are you interested in embarking on an epic journey filled with thrilling battles, fascinating lore, intricate strategy, and stunning miniatures? Look no further than Warhammer 40K! This game is a phenomenal blend of hobby craft, storytelling, and competitive gaming. It plays on a tabletop with finely crafted miniatures, depicting a grim, sci-fi universe engulfed in never-ending conflict. This article is your beginner-friendly guide to getting started with Warhammer 40K!
WHAT IS WARHAMMER 40K?
Warhammer 40K, often simply referred to as 40K, is a tabletop miniature wargame created by British company Games Workshop. It’s like chess, but on steroids. Instead of a chessboard, imagine beautifully crafted landscapes of a dystopian future. And instead of black and white pawns and queens, visualize meticulously painted armies of space marines, nightmarish aliens, advanced robots and ancient gods!
Warhammer 40K is set in a distinct grimdark, dystopian “gothic sci-fi” universe that’s been compared to the likes of Star Wars, Blade Runner, and Dune. The war-ravaged universe is depicted in the 41st millennium, ten thousands years into our future, and is filled with elaborate histories, intricate politics, and diverse species all vying for survival and supremacy.
HOW IT WORKS OR HOW TO GET STARTED
The game is played between at least two players each commanding their own army. The objective might be as simple as annihilating the other player’s forces, or it might involve completing different mission objectives on the battlefield.
Here are some simple steps to get started with Warhammer 40K:
1. Choose your Army: There are several distinctive factions in the Warhammer 40K universe, each with their unique aesthetic, background, and play style.
2. Assemble and Paint: Once you’ve bought your miniatures, it’s time to assemble and paint them. This part of the hobby is as important and enjoyable as the game itself.
3. Learn the Rules: The full rule book is quite comprehensive. As a beginner, you might just want to start with the basic rules. Games Workshop provides a free downloadable copy on their website.
4. Play the Game: Finally, the part that everyone’s been waiting for – the battle. Setup the terrain, deploy your army, then let the game begins.
WHAT YOU NEED TO PLAY
Here are the essential items that you need to play Warhammer 40K:
1. Miniatures: Typically, the army’s starter pack known as “Start Collecting!” boxes is a good starting point.
2. Rulebook: Warhammer 40K’s basic rules are available as free downloads from the Games Workshop website. The full rulebook can be bought on their website or at a hobby store.
3. Dice: You’ll need six-sided dice, and lots of them.
4. Measuring Tools: To measure movement and range.
5. Battlefield and Terrain: The game can be played on any flat surface, though a dedicated gaming board is often used, along with models of buildings, ruins, and other obstacles.
TIPS FOR BEGINNERS
1. Start Small: Don’t stress about building a full-sized army right away. Start with a small force and expand as you get more comfortable.
2. Understand the Rules: It’s a dense read, but becoming familiar with the rule book can enhance your play game immensely.
3. Join a Community: Learning from other players can be a huge help. Look for a local hobby store or Warhammer group.
4. Patience with Painting: Painting is an integral part of the Warhammer experience. Take your time and enjoy it!
5. Have Fun: Above all else, remember that this is a game.
HELPFUL RESOURCES
1. Games Workshop: The official website has a wealth of information for beginners.
2. Warhammer Community: Provides updates on new products, tutorials, and game tips.
3. YouTube: Channels like Warhammer TV, Miniwargaming, and Winters SEO often provide painting tutorials, battle reports, and product reviews.
4. Reddit: The Warhammer 40K subreddit is a friendly community helpful for beginners.
GLOSSARY: COMMON TERMS EXPLAINED
1. Army List: The roster of units you have chosen to make up your force.
2. Battle-forged: A type of army list that follows particular formation requirements.
3. Narrative Play: Games played with pre-set scenarios or stories.
4. Points Value: Each unit has a points value which is used to balance the forces in a battle.
5. Wound: A measure of a unit’s health.
NEXT STEPS: WHERE TO GO FROM HERE
After you have your armies assembled, a basic understanding of the rules, and you have played a simple game or two, you may find yourself asking, “what next?” Here are a couple of suggestions:
1. Paint Your Miniatures: Warhammer 40K is as much about the artistic side of the hobby as it is about the gaming side.
2. Try New Scenarios: The rulebook is chock-full of additional scenarios and missions.
3. Expand Your Army: Once you feel comfortable and excited about the potential of your army, consider expanding it.
4. Play more games! Whether you’re winning or losing, each game will give you experience
Remember, the journey with Warhammer 40,000 is what you make of it, whether it’s focused on collecting, painting, storytelling or gaming, there’s no wrong path. Be patient, have fun and get ready to dive into the endless universe of Warhammer 40K!
