It is the 41st Millennium. For more than a hundred centuries The Emperor has sat immobile on the Golden Throne of Earth. He is the Master of Mankind by the will of the gods, and master of a million worlds by the might of his inexhaustible armies. He is a rotting carcass writhing invisibly with power from the Dark Age of Technology. He is the Carrion Lord of the Imperium for whom a thousand souls are sacrificed every day, so that he may never truly die.
Yet even in his deathless state, the Emperor continues his eternal vigilance. Mighty battlefleets cross the daemon-infested miasma of the Warp, the only route between distant stars, their way lit by the Astronomican, the psychic manifestation of the Emperor’s will. Vast armies give battle in his name on uncounted worlds. Greatest amongst his soldiers are the Adeptus Astartes, the Space Marines, bio-engineered super-warriors. Their comrades in arms are legion: the Imperial Guard and countless planetary defence forces, the ever vigilant Inquisition and the tech-priests of the Adeptus Mechanicus to name only a few. But for all their multitudes, they are barely enough to hold off the ever-present threat from aliens, heretics, mutants – and worse.
To be a man in such times is to be one amongst untold billions. It is to live in the cruelest and most bloody regime imaginable. These are the tales of those times. Forget the power of technology and science, for so much has been forgotten, never to be re-learned. Forget the promise of progress and understanding, for in the grim darkness of the far future there is only war. There is no peace amongst the stars, only an eternity of carnage and slaughter, and the laughter of thirsting gods.
If you have just discovered the vast, intricate world of Warhammer 40K video games, figuring out where to start can be a challenge. But don’t worry—experienced gamers have shared their insights to help you dive into this grimdark universe. From strategic warfare to action-packed battles, these tips will guide you to the best entry points, ensuring you enter the 41st millennium with confidence and excitement. Whether you’re commanding armies or engaging in fierce combat, there’s a perfect starting point for you.
Popular Recommendations
Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War Series has cemented itself as a cornerstone in the Warhammer 40K video game franchise, becoming an essential experience for both die-hard fans and newcomers. This series captures the essence of real-time strategy, offering a deeply immersive experience that is as accessible to new players as it is challenging to veterans. The original game, along with its numerous expansions, serves as a thorough introduction to the rich lore and diverse factions that define the Warhammer 40K universe.
Dawn of War excels in delivering a gameplay experience rooted in strategic depth and large-scale battles. Players must master the art of base-building, resource management, and strategic deployment of units to achieve dominance. The array of units available, each with unique abilities and strengths, requires thoughtful consideration and tactical planning. The series’ narrative campaigns are meticulously crafted, providing a compelling story that draws players into the brutal, unrelenting conflict of the 41st millennium. Through these campaigns, players experience the relentless struggle for survival and supremacy that defines the Warhammer universe, making Dawn of War a definitive experience in the realm of real-time strategy games.
Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine offers a visceral shift from the strategy-focused games of the franchise, plunging players into the heart of combat with third-person action gameplay. This title is perfect for those who thrive on direct, hands-on combat and seek a more personal connection with the characters they control. The gameplay is a seamless blend of fast-paced melee and ranged combat, allowing players to experience the sheer power and brutality of a Space Marine firsthand.
The narrative of Space Marine is rich and engaging, providing a strong storyline that immerses players in the grimdark universe of Warhammer 40K. As players step into the boots of a Space Marine, they are treated to a relentless combat experience that highlights the raw power and indomitable spirit of these superhuman warriors. The game excels in conveying the intense, visceral reality of war in the 41st millennium, where every battle is a desperate struggle for survival against overwhelming odds. The combination of dynamic combat mechanics and a compelling storyline makes Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine a standout title for action game enthusiasts and Warhammer fans alike.
Warhammer 40,000: Mechanicus is a standout title for fans of tactical turn-based strategy. Set against the intricately detailed and lore-rich backdrop of the Warhammer 40K universe, this game places a heavy emphasis on strategic planning and decision-making, challenging players to outmaneuver their opponents through cunning tactics and precise execution. The focus on the Adeptus Mechanicus faction offers a unique and captivating perspective within the Warhammer lore, highlighting the enigmatic and technologically advanced sect of the Imperium.
Mechanicus excels in offering deep customization options, allowing players to tailor their Tech-Priests and units to their preferred playstyle. Experimenting with a variety of weapons, augmentations, and abilities provides a fresh tactical edge in combat. The battles themselves are complex and demanding, requiring careful consideration of each move and anticipation of enemy actions. This game creates a tense and rewarding gameplay loop that continually tests players’ tactical prowess. The rich narrative and atmospheric presentation further enhance the experience, making Warhammer 40,000: Mechanicus a standout entry in the realm of turn-based strategy games.
Warhammer 40,000: Inquisitor – Martyr is an exemplary choice for players drawn to action RPGs, blending Diablo-style gameplay with the grimdark setting of the Warhammer 40K universe. The game excels in delivering a loot-driven progression system that keeps players engaged, striving to enhance their characters with powerful gear and abilities. With multiple classes to choose from, including the Crusader, Assassin, and Psyker, each offering distinct playstyles and tactical options, players can tailor their experience to suit their preferences.
Inquisitor – Martyr delves deeply into the dark and foreboding aspects of Warhammer 40K, exploring themes of heresy, corruption, and the eternal struggle against the forces of Chaos. Players take on the role of an Inquisitor, one of the most feared and revered agents of the Imperium, tasked with uncovering dark secrets and purging the galaxy of its many threats. The game’s detailed environments, from desolate wastelands of derelict planets to labyrinthine corridors of ancient space hulks, create an immersive and foreboding atmosphere that perfectly complements the intense and visceral combat.
The combination of rich storytelling, varied classes, and a robust loot system ensures that Warhammer 40,000: Inquisitor – Martyr offers a deep and satisfying action RPG experience. It immerses players in the unrelenting darkness of the Warhammer universe, where every choice carries weight and every battle is a testament to the struggle for survival.
Other Noteworthy Mentions
Warhammer 40,000: Gladius – Relics of War offers a more methodical, empire-building experience through 4X strategy gameplay. For those interested in naval strategy and fleet management, Warhammer 40,000: Battlefleet Gothic: Armada focuses on space combat.
Conclusion
Choosing where to begin your journey into the Warhammer 40K video game universe can feel daunting, but there is something for everyone. Whether you want to hack and slash your way through hordes of Orks as a superhuman Ultramarine in Space Marine or command a fleet of ancient voidships, Warhammer 40K has you covered. Given its origins as a tabletop strategy game, it’s no surprise that real-time and turn-based strategy games feature heavily in the Warhammer 40K lineup.
Over the months, we have compiled a comprehensive list of 40K games right here on the site. Head over to the games list and find something that piques your interest. Be warned, the grimdark universe of Warhammer 40K is an addictive elixir—once you’re in, you may never find your way out.
Good luck, may the Emperor be with you, and we shall see you on the battlefield!
