Welcome to the enthralling universe of Warhammer, where epic battles and intricate lore come together to create one of the most immersive tabletop experiences. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a newcomer, one of the most exciting decisions you’ll make is choosing your faction. This guide will help you navigate the vast array of options and find the perfect match for your playstyle and interests.
## Understanding the Warhammer Universe
Warhammer’s universe is divided into two main settings:
– **Warhammer 40,000**: A dark, dystopian future where humanity is beset by enemies on all sides.
– **Warhammer Age of Sigmar**: A fantasy setting with gods, magic, and mythical creatures.
Each setting offers a variety of factions, each with its own unique lore, aesthetic, and playstyle.
## Key Considerations for Choosing a Faction
### 1. **Playstyle**
Your playstyle is a crucial factor in deciding which faction suits you best. Consider the following aspects:
– **Aggressive**: If you prefer charging into battle and overwhelming your foes, look for factions with powerful melee units and high mobility.
– **Defensive**: If you like turtling up and outlasting opponents, consider factions with strong defensive capabilities and ranged attacks.
– **Balanced**: Some factions offer a mix of both, allowing flexibility in tactics.
### 2. **Aesthetic Appeal**
The visual appeal of your army is paramount. You’ll be spending time painting and assembling your models, so choose a faction whose look you enjoy. Consider:
– **Armor and Weapons**: Do you prefer sleek, futuristic armor or rugged, medieval designs?
– **Color Scheme**: Many factions have iconic colors, but don’t hesitate to customize to your liking.
– **Model Complexity**: Some factions have intricate models that offer rewarding challenges for hobbyists.
### 3. **Lore and Background**
For many players, the story behind their army is just as important as the models themselves. Dive into the lore to see which faction resonates with you. Do you want to be:
– A **noble defender** of humanity or a **ruthless conqueror**?
– Part of a **mystical order** or a **technologically advanced** society?
– Aligned with **good**, **evil**, or somewhere in between?
## Popular Factions to Consider
### Warhammer 40,000
1. **Space Marines**
– *Playstyle*: Versatile and durable.
– *Aesthetic*: Power armor and a range of chapter colors.
– *Lore*: Superhuman warriors defending humanity.
2. **Orks**
– *Playstyle*: Aggressive with overwhelming numbers.
– *Aesthetic*: Ramshackle vehicles and green-skinned brutes.
– *Lore*: Chaotic and war-hungry.
3. **Tyranids**
– *Playstyle*: Swarm tactics and adaptability.
– *Aesthetic*: Alien and bio-organic.
– *Lore*: Hive-minded aliens seeking to consume all life.
### Warhammer Age of Sigmar
1. **Stormcast Eternals**
– *Playstyle*: Resilient and hard-hitting.
– *Aesthetic*: Golden armor and divine motifs.
– *Lore*: Reforged warriors of the God-King Sigmar.
2. **Skaven**
– *Playstyle*: Swarming with unpredictable tactics.
– *Aesthetic*: Ratmen and steampunk contraptions.
– *Lore*: Treacherous and chaotic, seeking to spread corruption.
3. **Sylvaneth**
– *Playstyle*: Hit-and-run with magical support.
– *Aesthetic*: Tree-like spirits and forest guardians.
– *Lore*: Protectors of nature and the balance of life.
## Final Thoughts
Choosing a Warhammer faction is a personal journey. Take your time to explore the options, perhaps even try a few demo games with different factions to see what feels right. Remember, the best choice is one that excites you and makes you eager to dive into the rich world of Warhammer.
Whether you find yourself drawn to the grim darkness of the far future or the magical realms of Age of Sigmar, you’re stepping into an epic adventure. Happy wargaming!