A Warhammer Primer

So you've decided to play Warhammer.

That's my assumption on writing this piece anyway. It contains a few tips on getting started in the game. I'm not going to argue the pros and cons of playing at all, I'm writing this piece for those who have decided they do want to play.

Good Looking?
Your first task is to pick which army you would like to play. There are over a dozen to choose from in Warhammer. They each have certain strengths and weaknesses, but don't worry about that right now. What you need to know is that you have to pick one. Warhammer doesn’t work in black and white. There are no good and evil alliances. Each army stands alone against everyone else.

Take a good look at the Warhammer miniatures. Which army appeals to you most, in terms of look and feel? This is the army you should choose. You are going to spend a lot of time with your miniatures, not just playing, but modelling and painting too. Looks count.

Tactical Considerations
Once you have an idea of the army you would like to take, consider your broad tactical leanings. Don't worry about details at this stage, just think in generalities. Do you want to charge in and fight as soon as possible, or stand back and shoot from a distance? Many of the Warhammer armies are deep enough to let you do either, or a mix if you prefer. Your leanings will determine the units you'll want to choose.

Your first purchase
Your first purchase should be the book for the army you have chosen. Each army in Warhammer has its own book, giving you full details of every unit you can take. Reading through the book, in light of your tactical preferences will give you an idea of the kind of army you would like to take.

Your first, second, third List
It's now time to write some army lists. Each game of Warhammer is played to a given points maximum, 1,500 or 2,000 points are common game values. Write some lists for your army to the points value you expect to be playing. Don't just write one, write many, and see what you like and dislike about each list. You can actually do this before buying the army book, either by using the in store copies on a Games Workshop store, or by borrowing from friends. Get feedback on your army lists.

Missing Something?
It could be that you don't know people who play Warhammer. Like Tango, Warhammer requires two people. Check out your local gaming clubs, which will be your source of opponents, do this before even buying an army book. Most clubs have players willing to help people into the game. See what points value the club members play to. You may be able to play in the shop you buy your miniatures from, just ask and see if there's a games night (or day) for Warhammer.

Last Word
Have fun!