Warhammer is a globally recognized tabletop hobby that combines strategic gaming, miniature model building, and deep storytelling. If you are searching for the official digital home of this hobby, you are looking for a central hub where you can find rules, shop for models, and explore the vast lore of different universes. This guide will help you navigate the basics of the hobby and find the resources you need to begin your journey.
Understanding the Warhammer Universes
Before diving into the hobby, it is helpful to understand that there are two primary settings. Each offers a distinct atmosphere, aesthetic, and gameplay style, though both share the same core hobby elements of building and painting miniatures.
Warhammer 40,000 (40k)
This is a science-fiction setting set in the grim darkness of the far future. It features space marines, alien empires, and advanced technology clashing across the galaxy. It is currently the most popular version of the game and has a massive range of models and books.
Warhammer Age of Sigmar
This setting focuses on high fantasy, featuring magic, mythical creatures, and epic gods. It replaced the older “Warhammer Fantasy” system and offers a more streamlined set of rules that many beginners find accessible. The models are known for their intricate, fantastical designs.
How to Find Official Resources
To get the most accurate information, you should visit the official Warhammer website. This site serves as the primary gateway for everything related to the hobby, including the online store and community news.
- Official Webstore: This is where you can purchase the latest miniatures, paints, and rulebooks directly from the manufacturer.
- Warhammer Community: A dedicated news site that provides daily updates, rule previews, and painting tutorials.
- App Support: There are official apps for both 40,000 and Age of Sigmar that help you build army lists and reference rules during a game.
Essential Steps for Beginners
Starting a new hobby can feel overwhelming, but the best approach is to take it one step at a time. Most veteran players recommend starting small rather than buying a massive army all at once.
- Pick Your Setting: Decide whether you prefer the sci-fi grit of 40,000 or the heroic fantasy of Age of Sigmar.
- Choose an Army: Look through the official galleries and find an army that looks cool to you. Since you will spend hours painting them, you should enjoy their appearance.
- Buy a Starter Set: These sets are designed for new players and include two small forces, a basic rulebook, and sometimes even dice and range rulers.
- Get Basic Tools: You will need a pair of plastic cutters, some plastic glue, and a few basic paints to get your models ready for the table.
Learning the Rules and Gameplay
The rules for Warhammer are updated periodically through new editions. The core rules are often available for free as a digital download on the official website, allowing you to learn the basics without an initial investment.
Games are typically played on a flat surface, such as a dining table or a dedicated gaming mat. Players take turns moving their units, shooting at range, and engaging in close-quarters combat. The outcome of these actions is determined by rolling six-sided dice and comparing the results to the statistics found in your army’s rulebook, often called a “Codex” or “Battletome.”
The Artistic Side: Building and Painting
For many, the most rewarding part of the hobby is the creative process. Warhammer miniatures come as plastic kits on frames (sprues). You must carefully cut the pieces out and glue them together following the provided instructions.
Once assembled, you can paint your models using acrylic paints. The official brand offers a specific painting system designed to make it easy for beginners to achieve great results. There are thousands of video tutorials online that can teach you techniques like “basecoating,” “shading,” and “highlighting.”
Where to Play and Connect
Warhammer is a social hobby. Once you have a small force ready, you can find local communities to play games and share tips. Many cities have dedicated retail stores that offer free introductory games and painting lessons for newcomers.
You can also find gaming clubs at local hobby shops or community centers. These spaces are excellent for meeting experienced players who can help you learn the nuances of the rules in a friendly environment. Engaging with the community is one of the fastest ways to improve both your gaming skills and your painting ability.
Conclusion
Getting started with Warhammer is a journey of creativity and strategy. By visiting the official website, choosing a setting that inspires you, and starting with a simple boxed set, you can begin exploring this vast hobby at your own pace. Remember that every expert was once a beginner, so do not be afraid to ask for help at your local hobby store. For more tips on tabletop gaming and creative hobbies, feel free to explore our other guides on practical home activities and entertainment.