How to Get into Warhammer 40k: A Basic Game Overview

Eric Petersen • 25 May 30, 2025

Welcome to the grim darkness of the far future! Warhammer 40,000 (40k) is more than just a tabletop game, it's an immersive hobby that combines strategy, creativity, and storytelling. Players build and paint armies of detailed miniatures, then command them in epic battles across war-torn battlefields. Each force represents a unique faction from this sci-fi universe, from the zealous Space Marines defending humanity to the mysterious Necrons awakening from ancient tombs.

Getting into Warhammer 40k opens up a world of possibilities. You'll join a welcoming community of players who share your passion for gaming. Hobbyists enjoy the meditative process of assembling and painting the models, as well as the tactical challenges of battlefield command. Whether you're interested in casual games with friends or competitive matched play, there's a place for you in the 40k universe.

Understanding the Basics

Warhammer 40,000 (40k) combines strategic movement and combat with rich lore of a dark science-fiction universe, as players wage war across fantastically designed battlefields using models they've built and painted themselves.

Core Game Structure

Players take turns moving their forces, shooting weapons, and engaging in close combat during five structured battle rounds. Each round consists of distinct phases:

Command

The player generates command points
The units take battle shock tests

Movement

The active player moves their units

Shooting

The player has ranged weapon units perform their shooting, one at a time, until they choose to stop or run out of firing units

Charge

The active player chooses any of their available units to move into melee range with an enemy

Fight

Each player will choose a unit to fight with, alternating until each unit from both players has fought
The units will pile in and make attacks

Players activate their units to achieve mission objectives and eliminate enemy forces. Victory is earned by scoring points through completing tactical goals while reducing enemy strength.

Three Pillars of the Hobby

The Warhammer hobby experience rests on three main activities that players can enjoy separately or together:

Building and painting forms the creative foundation, assembling multipart plastic miniatures and bringing them to life with detailed paint schemes. Many new players find this aspect deeply rewarding and relaxing.

The gaming element focuses on tactical battlefield warfare using your painted army. Players move units, roll dice for combat, and use special abilities while trying to outmaneuver opponents.

Collecting lets enthusiasts build their perfect faction over time, choosing from dozens of unique armies, from superhuman Space Marines to Imperial Knights regiments. Many enjoy researching lore and planning future army additions.

Understanding Key Terms

Success in Warhammer 40k requires familiarity with core rules terminology:

Units are groups of models that activate and fight together
Battle rounds break the game into structured turns where players take actions
Victory conditions outline how to win through achieving mission objectives
Army lists determine what models and equipment you field
Datasheets contain the rules and stats for each unit type

The miniature game rewards tactical thinking and creative strategy while providing an immersive science fantasy universe. Whether you enjoy the artistic elements, competitive gaming, or collecting aspects, Warhammer 40k offers rich opportunities for hobby enjoyment.

Getting Set Up

Starting your Warhammer hobby requires a few basic items. To begin, you'll need the Core Rulebook, which contains all fundamental game mechanics and lore. Next, choose your preferred faction and purchase its new codex. This book contains specific rules and background for your chosen army. For gaming supplies, pick up some six-sided dice, measuring tape (in inches), and a pen and paper for tracking game stats.

Choosing Your First Army

Selecting your first Warhammer army is an exciting step into the miniature game. Some beginner-friendly factions that can help new players get started on solid footing include:

The Space Marines

The Space Marines make an excellent starting force for newcomers to the Warhammer hobby. They're versatile warriors with straightforward rules and balanced capabilities in both shooting and close combat. Their miniatures are durable enough to forgive tactical mistakes, and they have strong unit options for both beginners and veterans.

Tyranids

Tyranids are a fantastic choice for new players thanks to their presence in many starter sets and their aggressive, fast-paced play style. These alien swarms rely on sheer numbers and overwhelming force, with units that excel in close combat. Their armies are made up of terrifying creatures like Termagants, Hormagaunts, and monstrous leaders like the Winged Tyranid Prime—all included in popular Combat Patrol boxes. If you enjoy the idea of an unstoppable hive mind devouring the galaxy, the Tyranids might be your perfect match.

The Astra Militarum (Imperial Guard)

The Astra Militarum (Imperial Guard) presents a different playstyle focused on overwhelming numbers and heavy firepower. While they require more tactical finesse, their clear battle roles and straightforward shooting make them approachable for new players who enjoy commanding large armies.

When choosing your faction, consider:

Your preferred combat style (close combat vs. ranged warfare)
The look and universe background of the faction
Your total cost for building the force

Combat Patrol boxes offer the best place for new players to start. These boxed sets include a balanced force of around 500 points, perfect for learning the game. Each comes with troops, characters, and support units selected to work well together. While the initial cost may seem high, Combat Patrols provide better value than buying units separately.

Beyond the starter set, build your army gradually by adding units that complement your core forces. Focus on troops first, then add elite units and vehicles as you learn the game. This measured approach helps manage costs while letting you learn each new unit's capabilities.

Starting to Play

Now that you've chosen your new army, it's time to hit the battlefield. Learn the strategic dance of the game's five phases, connect with fellow enthusiasts at local stores and gaming clubs, and discover the satisfaction of transforming gray plastic into vibrant warriors ready for battle. Immerse yourself in the Warhammer world!

Learning Game Mechanics

The miniature wargame operates in phases: Command, Movement, Shooting, Charge, and Fight. Start by learning basic movement rules and measuring distances. Combat involves rolling dice to determine hits, wounds, and saves. Focus on mastering these core rules before diving into advanced strategies. A helpful approach is watching battle reports online and practicing with small-scale skirmishes using just a few units.

Finding Games

Local game stores are the best place for Warhammer 40,000 players. On-Board Gaming in Escondido offers regular gaming events and a welcoming space for new players. Gaming clubs provide structured environments to learn and improve. Home games with friends who are also learning can create a relaxed setting to practice rules and tactics. Many stores host beginner-friendly events where experienced players help teach newcomers.

Painting Equipment

Basic painting requires: plastic primer spray, a starter set of miniature paints (including basic colors for your entire army), a few brushes (sizes 0, 1, and 2), plastic clippers for removing parts from sprues, and super glue. A painting handle helps hold miniatures while working, and a wet palette helps mix colors. This starter setup allows you to assemble and paint your first units effectively.

Start Your Warhammer Journey with On-Board Gaming

Our welcoming community of Warhammer enthusiasts is ready to help you learn the faction basics, share painting tips, and join regular gaming events. Whether you're drawn to the Chaos Daemons, the forces of the Drukhari, or any of the diverse factions, you'll find players eager to share their knowledge and passion for the hobby.

Visit us at On-Board Gaming to browse our extensive selection of Warhammer game products, other board games, & more, join our weekly game nights, and become part of our thriving miniature gaming community. Your grimdark adventure in the 41st millennium starts here!