Warhammer 40,000: A Playful Guide to the Galaxy
Welcome, beginner, to a world where plastic turns into legends and colors turn into blood! Choosing your first army is like your first kiss – you'll never forget it and you want it to be worth it. So let's dive into it in a friendly spirit so you won't get lost in the galactic chaos.
Imperium of Man
Do you like everything to be in order, with uniforms and big guns? The Imperium is a galactic empire with super soldiers, millions of infantry, and tanks. If you want to play as a hero in shiny armor (or as the commander of massive tank formations), this is your choice.
🛡️ Space Marines
- Why choose them? They are the most famous faction and perfect for beginners. They are strong and versatile, so you can easily learn the rules with them.
- Play style: Powerful and durable killing machines. Whether you're fighting up close or at range, they can handle it.
- Key characters: Marneus Calgar, Dante, Roboute Guilliman.
💂 Astra Militarum
- Why choose them? Because you're a general, not a hero! While Space Marines save the galaxy, you win it all with an army of thousands of infantry and tanks. It's about quantity, not quality!
- Play style: Loads of models, dozens of tanks, and plenty of shooting. They play at range and rely on firepower and artillery to crush everything in their path.
- Key characters: Lord Castellan Creed, Yarrick.
⚙️ Adeptus Mechanicus
- Why choose them? Are you attracted to robots, cyborgs, and technology that would fit perfectly in Star Wars? Then choose the cybernetic cult.
- Play style: Robots, special weapons, and technological superiority. They're smart and tactically demanding, capable of surprising opponents.
- Key characters: Belisarius Cawl.
⚔️ Imperial Knights
- Why choose them? Want to win the game with just three massive robots that crush cars with every step? Then this is your clear choice.
- Play style: A few huge models, each extremely strong and durable. They play to dominate and shock the opponent.
- Key characters: House Raven.
Chaos
So you're tired of rules and want to enjoy some real chaos? Then join the dark gods! Here, the crazier, the better.
👿 Chaos Space Marines
- Why choose them? Want to be evil but with style? These are corrupted super soldiers with a demonic twist. Mutations, dark magic, aggressive play style. What more could you want?
- Play style: Fast and aggressive units that charge into close combat. They play to surprise and employ an aggressive strategy.
- Key characters: Abaddon the Despoiler, Ahriman.
👹 Chaos Daemons
- Why choose them? Don't want to deal with plastic and paint? You were born of emotions and desires of mortals! Send a horde of demons against your enemy!
- Play style: Magic, speed, and devastating attacks. Demons rely on overwhelming numbers and the power of their gods.
- Key characters: Skarbrand, Kairos Fateweaver.

