Top Recommendations for Diving into Warhammer 40,000

Warhammer 40,000 continues to grow in popularity, attracting countless new enthusiasts to its rich and complex universe each year. However, navigating this intricate landscape can be quite overwhelming for newcomers. If you’ve ever been captivated by the striking visuals of the Space Marines and their imposing armor, figuring out how to start can seem like a monumental challenge. So, what exactly is Warhammer 40,000? Is it merely a series of novels, a video game franchise, a tabletop experience, or an animated series? The truth is, it encompasses all these mediums, and you can engage with the hobby through any or all of them. To assist you in discovering the best way to immerse yourself, we sought the expertise of Arbitor Ian, a beloved figure in the Warhammer community known for his engaging YouTube content. He shares valuable recommendations on the various avenues available for beginners. Best Video Games to Introduce You to Warhammer 40,000 For those who primarily enjoy video games, there are numerous titles set in the Warhammer 40,000 universe. Historically, the transition from the tabletop to video games has been rocky, with a mix of successes and failures. However, recent titles have made significant strides in capturing the essence of 40K. Here are Arbitor Ian's top game picks: 1. Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 Arbitor Ian explains: "Space Marine 2 is an obvious starting point. This third-person shooter focuses on the Ultramarines, the flagship faction of 40K, as they navigate the Fourth Tyrannic War. Players control Titus, the protagonist from both Space Marine titles, but prior experience with the first game isn't necessary. The story is straightforward yet engaging, with plenty of hidden details and a variety of foes to encounter throughout the campaign. It’s an excellent entry point for anyone familiar with video gaming." 2. Warhammer 40,000: Rogue Trader Arbitor Ian adds: "For a deeper introduction, I highly recommend Owlcat’s CRPG, Rogue Trader. This game allows players to step into the shoes of a Rogue Trader, a daring explorer with the freedom to shape the destiny of entire regions in space. It unfolds during a succession crisis, revealing various conspiracies and plots. The game offers a broader perspective on the 40K universe, featuring interactions with rogue servitors, trading with alien races, and navigating the complex politics of the Imperium, alongside combat. What I particularly enjoy about Rogue Trader is its grasp of 40K's humor, balancing the grimdark elements with whimsical absurdity, providing a well-rounded view of the franchise." 3. Total War: Warhammer 40,000 (or Tabletop Simulator) According to Arbitor Ian: "While neither Space Marine 2 nor Rogue Trader serve as introductions to the tabletop game itself, Tabletop Simulator on Steam allows players to experience Warhammer 40,000 virtually, albeit with a steep learning curve due to extensive setup requirements. However, the anticipated release of Total War: Warhammer 40,000 promises to deliver an accessible way to experience the feel of a tabletop war game in a digital format, making it my third recommendation, even though it hasn't been released yet." Best Books to Begin Your Warhammer 40,000 Journey For those drawn to the narrative and lore of Warhammer 40,000, the best resource is the Black Library, the publishing division of Games Workshop. With an extensive range of novels available in print, digital, and audiobook formats, readers can explore various aspects of the 40K universe. Here are some of Arbitor Ian's recommended starting points: 1. Eisenhorn Trilogy by Dan Abnett Arbitor Ian states: "The Eisenhorn series is the quintessential entry point for Warhammer 40K literature. Following the journey of Inquisitor Gregor Eisenhorn, whose role is to hunt down heresy within the Imperium, the trilogy consists of three novels: Xenos, Hereticus, and Malleus. This series is crafted to be accessible for newcomers, featuring a singular main character and a manageable cast. The narrative blends elements of a police procedural and thriller, showcasing well-developed characters told from a first-person perspective. After finishing this series, readers can move on to Ravenor, which continues the story with Eisenhorn's former apprentice." 2. Avenging Son: A Dawn of Fire Novel by Guy Haley For readers interested in epic battles, Arbitor Ian recommends: "Avenging Son, the first installment in the Dawn of Fire series, is a fantastic choice. Unlike Eisenhorn, this novel encompasses a larger cast and broader scope, set during the Indomitus Crusade. It provides insights from characters new to the crusade, struggling with their roles. With a blend of humor and intense conflict, this book balances the heavy action with lighthearted moments among its vibrant characters." 3. Brutal Kunnin by Mike Brooks Lastly, Arbitor Ian suggests: "For those who wish to explore perspectives outside the Imperium, Brutal Kunnin offers a unique lens through the eyes of orks. This narrative follows Ufthak Blackhawk and his crew as they navigate chaos and hilarity amidst battles. It’s filled with entertaining antics involving ork technology, a squig named Princess, and the chaos they unleash upon the world. This book is a delightful romp, packed with humor and excitement, and is set against the backdrop of a colossal conflict." With these various options, whether you prefer gaming or reading, you can find an engaging entry point into the expansive universe of Warhammer 40,000.