Introduction to Warhammer 40k
Warhammer 40,000 (40k) is a tabletop miniature wargame produced by Games Workshop. Set in a dystopian future, players engage in battles between armies of miniature figurines representing various factions. Each faction has its unique lore, playstyle, and strengths, making the choice of your first army both exciting and challenging.
Why Choose an Army?
Your choice of army defines your playstyle and the miniatures you'll collect and paint. Each army has its own distinct models, background story, and gameplay mechanics. Whether you prefer the brute force of giant robots or the stealth of genetically engineered superhumans, there's an army that suits every player.
Faction Guide
- Space Marines: Genetically engineered superhumans in power armor. Ideal for beginners due to their durability and versatility.
- Chaos Space Marines: Traitorous Space Marines corrupted by dark powers. Perfect for those who enjoy complex, aggressive playstyles.
- Orks: Savage, green-skinned aliens who love nothing more than war. Great for players who enjoy fast, brutal armies.
- Eldar: Elegant, psychic aliens with advanced technology. Suitable for players who enjoy strategic, agile armies.
- Tyranids: Giant, insectoid creatures that devour entire planets. Ideal for players who enjoy overwhelming, horde-style armies.
- Imperial Guard: Regular humans fighting in a grim, dark future. Perfect for those who enjoy large, diverse armies with many vehicle options.
- Necrons: Ancient, undead robots with powerful technology. Great for players who enjoy strategic, durable armies.
- Tau: Advanced, technologically superior aliens who value efficiency and precision. Ideal for players who enjoy ranged combat and strategy.
- Dark Eldar: Sadistic, agile aliens who thrive on pain and terror. Perfect for players who enjoy fast, close combat armies.
- Grey Knights: Specialized Space Marines who hunt daemons. Great for players who enjoy elite, powerful units.
- Sisters of Battle: Human female warriors who fight for the Emperor. Ideal for players who enjoy balanced, versatile armies.
- Marines AdMech: Tech-priests and their robotic servants. Perfect for players who enjoy combining technology and faith.
How to Choose Your Army
When selecting your first army, consider the following factors:
- Playstyle: Do you prefer close combat, ranged warfare, or a mix of both?
- Model Aesthetics: Which miniatures do you find most appealing to paint and collect?
- Background Lore: Are you drawn to a particular faction's story or universe?
- Difficulty Level: Some armies are more complex to play than others. Space Marines are often recommended for beginners.
- Cost: Consider the cost of starter sets and the number of miniatures you'll need to buy to build a competitive army.
Next Steps
Once you've chosen your army, start with a beginner's starter set. These sets usually include a small force of miniatures, a rulebook, and a guide to painting your models. Join online communities or visit your local hobby store to learn more about your chosen army and connect with other players.
