Warhammer is a captivating universe where imagination collides with strategy. From the detailed miniatures to the ever-expanding lore, Warhammer has captured the hearts and minds of millions across the world. Whether you’re interested in the futuristic, dystopian chaos of Warhammer 40K or the high-fantasy epic battles of Age of Sigmar, the world of Warhammer offers something for everyone. At Bomran, we understand that Warhammer isn’t just a game, it’s a hobby, a lifestyle and a community. We’re excited to guide you through the intricate world of Warhammer, explaining how to play, what makes it so popular, and how to get started. This guide will take you through everything you need to know, whether you’re thinking about entering the hobby or have already joined the ranks. Ready to start your Warhammer journey? Let’s get started!
What is Warhammer?
Warhammer is a tabletop wargame, widely regarded as one of the most strategic and creative hobbies available. It involves playing battles with intricately detailed miniatures which represent your chosen army. The game is deeply rooted in both tactical gameplay and creative expression. While it’s a strategic battle game, Warhammer is also a crafting hobby. Players can build, paint and collect miniatures, which come in various designs and scales. These miniatures represent units, heroes, vehicles and monsters in the battles within the game’s diverse universes.
There are two primary settings for Warhammer: Warhammer 40K and Warhammer Age of Sigmar. Both games share the same central mechanics, but their worlds differ in tone and setting significantly. Warhammer 40K is set in a grim, dark future where humanity is at war with alien species and supernatural forces. The game is fast-paced and focused on warfare with high-tech weaponry, massive vehicles and enormous battles. Age of Sigmar is a high-fantasy game set in a realm full of mythical creatures, gods and epic heroes. The tone of Age of Sigmar is more heroic and fantastical, though equally as strategic as Warhammer 40K.
For many, the attraction to Warhammer lies in the richness of the lore and the opportunity to tell a unique story. As you build your army and participate in battles, you’re not just engaging in a game, you’re creating a narrative of your own. Perhaps your army is a band of Space Marines, fiercely defending the last remnants of humanity, or a powerful elven host reclaiming their sacred lands from invaders. Warhammer is a blank canvas for storytelling, strategy and artistry.
How do you play Warhammer?
Playing Warhammer may seem complex at first glance, but once you understand the basics, it becomes incredibly enjoyable. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown to help you understand how to get started and what you can expect when you sit down for your first game.
1. Choose Your Army
The first and most exciting step in playing Warhammer is choosing your army. The game offers a vast array of factions, each with its own identity, playstyle and lore. These armies range from the Space Marines of Warhammer 40K to the savage Orcs and Goblins of Age of Sigmar. The army you choose will determine the look of your miniatures and your strategy on the battlefield.
Some of the most popular armies in Warhammer 40K include:
- Space Marines
- Tyranids
- Necrons
- Orks
In Age of Sigmar, you can choose from factions like:
- Stormcast Eternals
- Sylvaneth
- Chaos
- Seraphon
Choosing your army is the first step in establishing your identity as a Warhammer player. Think about what appeals to you: do you prefer tactical play, brute force or creative armies? You can also explore different armies’ lore, which may inspire you further.
2. Build Your Army List
Once you’ve chosen your army, you need to build an army list. This is essentially a list of units, characters and vehicles that make up your force for a battle. Each unit in Warhammer has a point value, and most games have a points limit (for example, 2,000 points). The key is to balance your army between powerful units and more affordable troops.
A typical army list in Warhammer 40K might consist of Space Marines, a couple of tanks and some infantry squads. In Age of Sigmar, you might have a mix of powerful heroes, troops and cavalry. What’s important is creating a list that suits your strategy, whether that’s an aggressive assault, a defensive stronghold or a balanced force with offensive and defensive capabilities.
As you build your army list, you can also incorporate special rules that come with your army’s unique abilities. For example, Space Marines might have a special rule that allows them to re-roll dice when attacking, while Orks might get additional strength when fighting in close combat. These unique traits make army building incredibly important for ensuring you’ve got the right balance to dominate the battlefield.
3. Set Up the Battlefield
The battlefield is where your army will face off against your opponent. It’s a tabletop surface that you’ll decorate with terrain, such as buildings, hills, forests, and other structures. The terrain has an important role in Warhammer, affecting movement, line of sight, and cover for units.
When setting up the battlefield, make sure there’s a balance between open spaces and areas of cover. Dense forests or ruined buildings can provide protection from enemy fire, allowing your units to hide and move strategically. The right terrain can give you a massive advantage—fighting from high ground or behind sturdy walls can tip the scales in your favour.
In tournaments or competitive play, there are often set rules for terrain placement, ensuring fairness. However, when playing at home with friends, you can be as creative as you like with your battlefield setup. The idea is to create a dynamic environment that challenges both players and enhances the strategic depth of the game.
4. Take Turns
Warhammer is played in turns, with each player alternating between phases. The main phases of the game are:
- Movement Phase
During this phase, you move your units around the battlefield. The movement is determined by each unit’s characteristics, such as how many inches they can move.
- Shooting Phase
Any units with ranged weapons can attack. You’ll roll dice to see if you hit your target, and then roll again to determine the amount of damage dealt.
- Charge Phase
If a unit is within a certain range of an enemy unit, you can charge them into close combat. This phase is exciting, as it allows your units to close the gap and engage in melee.
- Fight Phase
In this phase, the units locked in combat fight it out. Using dice rolls, you’ll determine the number of attacks, hits, wounds, and saves that are successful. The outcome is decided by your dice luck and the strength of your troops.
- Morale Phase
If your units have taken heavy casualties, they may need to check morale. If they fail, they might flee the battlefield, costing you valuable points.
Each phase requires careful decision-making, as the way you execute your turns can make the difference between victory and defeat. The key is to think strategically, anticipate your opponent’s moves, and make use of your army’s strengths.
5. Win the Game
To win a game of Warhammer, you must either eliminate your opponent’s army or achieve the objectives of the mission. Most games are played with specific mission objectives, which could involve securing key areas of the battlefield, destroying enemy units, or capturing important items.
Victory comes down to having a better strategy, the right army composition, and sometimes just a little bit of luck. As you play more, you’ll learn how to adapt to different tactics and opponents, perfecting your strategy over time.
For more information about how to play Warhammer, get in touch with Bomran today!
Why is Warhammer so popular?
- Engaging Lore & Storytelling
One of the most compelling aspects of Warhammer is the depth and richness of its lore. Both Warhammer 40K and Age of Sigmar feature extensive backgrounds that span across novels and even entire histories of the factions involved. These stories draw players in, making them feel connected to the armies they command. The characters, heroes and villains are full of depth, and the world feels alive with potential. The storytelling isn’t just limited to the games themselves. Warhammer has a massive literary and fan fiction culture, where players create their own stories and narratives surrounding their armies.
- Endless Customisation
Warhammer offers unmatched freedom in terms of creativity and customisation. You can build your army to reflect your personal style, not just in terms of gameplay, but visually. The hobby aspect of painting miniatures and creating your own army is a huge part of Warhammer’s appeal. Some players spend hours perfecting the paint jobs on their miniatures, while others enjoy combining parts from different models to create unique characters and units. The options are virtually limitless, from the colours of your army to the conversion work you can do.
- Tactical Depth & Strategic Challenge
At its heart, Warhammer is a strategy game. Every move you make has consequences, and the complexity of each army’s rules and abilities means that no two games are the same. Players need to think ahead, adapt to changing circumstances, and make tough decisions under pressure. This challenge keeps players engaged, as the game rewards strategic thinking and careful planning. Whether you’re focusing on a long-term strategy of attrition or trying to outsmart your opponent with a fast, aggressive playstyle, the game offers endless opportunities for tactical innovation.
- A Thriving Community
Warhammer has one of the most active and passionate communities in gaming. Whether you’re discussing strategies on forums, attending local events, or joining in massive global tournaments, the Warhammer community is friendly, welcoming, and full of knowledge. It’s a place where players of all skill levels can share their passion, ask questions, and help each other improve. Being a part of the Warhammer community allows players to expand their social circles, build friendships, and even collaborate on creative projects, such as painting armies or designing custom missions.
Take the First Step into the Warhammer World
Warhammer is more than just a game, it’s a deep, engaging hobby that blends strategy, creativity and storytelling. With its vast lore, exciting gameplay and endless customisation options, Warhammer offers something for everyone, whether you’re a competitive player, a collector, or a hobbyist. Now is the perfect time to dive in and start building your own army.
At Bomran, we’re committed to helping you take your hobbies to the next level. Whether you’re getting started with Warhammer or looking to explore other tech gadgets, we’ve got what you need to fuel your passion. Visit our store today and start your Warhammer journey!
FAQs – Your Warhammer Questions Answered
How do I start with Warhammer?
If you’ve been thinking about starting Warhammer but aren’t sure where to begin, speak to someone at our Warhammer shop. At Bomran, we’re happy to give advice, and support and provide top tips to get you started in the world of Warhammer.
Are Warhammer figures easy to paint?
Although Warhammer figures are intricate and well-crafted, you shouldn’t let that put you off! Every figure from our Warhammer shop comes with detailed instructions on how to complete your figure.
How long does a game last?
Warhammer game lengths can vary, but a typical battle lasts between 2-3 hours.
Can I play by myself?
Yes, you can play solo, however, we do recommend playing with friends to get the most from this epic wargame.
Is Warhammer suitable for all ages?
Yes, people of all ages can enjoy Warhammer. We offer figures and more in our Warhammer shop that are suitable for all.
Do I need to be an artist?
No, you don’t need to be an artist to enjoy Warhammer! Our Warhammer shop supports creativity and fun. If you enjoy painting and tabletop wargames, Warhammer could be for you!
What is the most popular faction?
The popularity of factions varies, but Space Marines, Orks, and Chaos are consistently at the top of the list!
Ready to dive into the world of Warhammer and beyond? Head over to Bomran today to find the perfect gear for your next adventure. Let the battle begin!
