is the most popular miniature wargame in the world, renowned for its intricate strategy, vast lore, and dedicated community of hobbyists who build and paint elaborate armies. Produced by the British publisher Games Workshop , the brand encompasses two primary tabletop universes: the sci-fi Warhammer 40,000 (40k) and the high-fantasy Warhammer Age of Sigmar . The Core Pillars: Gaming, Modeling, and Lore
Warhammer miniatures come as unassembled plastic kits. You'll need to build them before you can play. Tools You’ll Need:
The Warhammer universe was first introduced in 1987 as a tabletop miniature wargame. Games Workshop, founded by Ian Livingstone and Steve Jackson, aimed to create a game that combined elements of science fiction and fantasy. The initial game, Warhammer Fantasy Battle, allowed players to control armies of miniature models, each representing a unique unit or character. The game's setting was a medieval-inspired fantasy world, where magic and technology coexisted in a world on the brink of destruction. Warhammer
While the brand name is shared, "Warhammer" actually refers to two distinct settings:
For decades, the original Warhammer Fantasy Battle was beloved. But by 2015, sales were stagnant. In a controversial move, Games Workshop literally blew up that world—an event called "The End Times." In its ashes rose . is the most popular miniature wargame in the
When people say "Warhammer," they are usually referring to one of two primary settings. While they share thematic DNA (darkness, satire, and over-the-top heroism), they are separate universes with different rules.
, the terrifying forces of Chaos, or various alien (Xenos) races. Warhammer Age of Sigmar: You'll need to build them before you can play
A high-fantasy setting that replaced the original "Warhammer Fantasy Battle" in 2015 . It involves magical realms, gods walking the earth, and diverse races like the armored Stormcast Eternals . Warhammer 40,000 Lore: A "Grimdark" History
The Warhammer universe has inspired a wide range of media and adaptations, including: