Warhammer 40K is a tabletop game that has been around since the late 1980s. It has gained a massive following over the years, and has since branched out into video game adaptations of the original game. The Warhammer 40K universe is vast and complex, and the games based on it reflect that. From real-time strategy games to first-person shooters, there is no shortage of options when it comes to Warhammer 40K video games. In this comprehensive guide, we will take a look at some of the best Warhammer 40K games to play, what makes them great, and what to look for when choosing a game to play.
Before we dive into the games themselves, it’s important to understand what makes a Warhammer 40K game great. The universe and lore of Warhammer 40K is incredibly deep and complex, and any game based on it should reflect that. The game should also be true to the source material, with accurate depictions of the various factions and characters that make up the Warhammer 40K universe. The gameplay should be engaging and challenging, with a good mix of strategy and action. Finally, the game should have a strong community of players, as the multiplayer aspect of Warhammer 40K games is a major part of the experience.
Real-Time Strategy Games
Real-time strategy games are some of the most popular Warhammer 40K games, and for good reason. They allow players to control armies of units in real-time battles, using strategy and tactics to defeat their opponents. Here are some of the best Warhammer 40K real-time strategy games:
1. Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War
Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War is one of the most popular Warhammer 40K games of all time. Developed by Relic Entertainment and published by THQ, it was released in 2004 and has since spawned several sequels and expansions. The game features a variety of factions from the Warhammer 40K universe, including Space Marines, Chaos, Eldar, and Orks. The gameplay is fast-paced and engaging, with a good mix of base-building, resource management, and combat. The multiplayer aspect of the game is also very strong, with a dedicated community of players still active today. If you’re looking for a classic Warhammer 40K real-time strategy game, Dawn of War is a great place to start.
2. Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War II
Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War II is the sequel to the original Dawn of War game, and was released in 2009. Developed by Relic Entertainment and published by THQ, it features a new gameplay style that focuses more on squad-based combat than base-building and resource management. Players control a small group of elite units, each with their own unique abilities and upgrades. The game also features a strong storyline that follows a group of Space Marines as they battle against the forces of Chaos. The multiplayer aspect of the game is also very strong, with a variety of game modes and maps to choose from. If you’re looking for a more tactical Warhammer 40K experience, Dawn of War II is a great choice.
3. Warhammer 40,000: Sanctus Reach
Warhammer 40,000: Sanctus Reach is a newer Warhammer 40K real-time strategy game, released in 2017. Developed by Straylight Entertainment and published by Slitherine Ltd., it features a turn-based combat system that allows players to take their time and plan out their moves. The game is set in the Sanctus Reach region of the Warhammer 40K universe, and features the Space Wolves and Orks as playable factions. The graphics and sound design are also very impressive, with detailed models and atmospheric music. If you’re looking for a more tactical Warhammer 40K game that allows you to take your time and plan your moves, Sanctus Reach is a great choice.
First-Person Shooters
First-person shooters are a more recent addition to the Warhammer 40K video game lineup, but they have quickly become some of the most popular titles in the franchise. These games put players in the shoes of a single character, allowing them to experience the Warhammer 40K universe up close and personal. Here are some of the best Warhammer 40K first-person shooters:
1. Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine
Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine is one of the most popular Warhammer 40K first-person shooters. Developed by Relic Entertainment and published by THQ, it was released in 2011 and features a single-player campaign that follows a Space Marine named Captain Titus as he battles against the forces of Chaos. The game also features a multiplayer mode that allows players to customize their own Space Marine and battle against others online. The gameplay is fast-paced and action-packed, with a variety of weapons and abilities to choose from. The graphics and sound design are also very impressive, with detailed models and atmospheric music. If you’re looking for a first-person shooter set in the Warhammer 40K universe, Space Marine is a great choice.
2. Warhammer 40,000: Vermintide 2
Warhammer 40,000: Vermintide 2 is a first-person shooter set in the Warhammer Fantasy universe, but it’s worth mentioning here because of its similarities to the Warhammer 40K franchise. Developed by Fatshark and published by Games Workshop, it was released in 2018 and features a cooperative multiplayer mode that allows players to team up and battle against hordes of enemies. The game features a variety of playable characters, each with their own unique abilities and weapons. The graphics and sound design are also very impressive, with detailed models and atmospheric music. If you’re looking for a cooperative first-person shooter set in a Warhammer universe, Vermintide 2 is a great choice.
3. Warhammer 40,000: Deathwatch – Tyranid Invasion
Warhammer 40,000: Deathwatch – Tyranid Invasion is a first-person shooter set in the Warhammer 40K universe. Developed by Rodeo Games and published by Games Workshop, it was released in 2015 and features a single-player campaign that follows a group of Space Marines as they battle against the Tyranid menace. The game also features a multiplayer mode that allows players to team up and battle against hordes of enemies. The graphics and sound design are very impressive, with detailed models and atmospheric music. If you’re looking for a first-person shooter with a strong storyline set in the Warhammer 40K universe, Deathwatch – Tyranid Invasion is a great choice.
Role-Playing Games
Role-playing games are another popular genre in the Warhammer 40K video game lineup. These games allow players to create their own characters and explore the vast and complex universe of Warhammer 40K. Here are some of the best Warhammer 40K role-playing games:
1. Warhammer 40,000: Inquisitor – Martyr
Warhammer 40,000: Inquisitor – Martyr is a role-playing game set in the Warhammer 40K universe. Developed by NeocoreGames and published by Bigben Interactive, it was released in 2018 and features a single-player campaign that follows an Inquisitor as they battle against heretics and mutants. The game also features a multiplayer mode that allows players to team up and battle against hordes of enemies. The graphics and sound design are very impressive, with detailed models and atmospheric music. If you’re looking for a role-playing game set in the Warhammer 40K universe, Inquisitor – Martyr is a great choice.
2. Warhammer 40,000: Space Hulk – Deathwing
Warhammer 40,000: Space Hulk – Deathwing is a role-playing game set in the Warhammer 40K universe. Developed by Streum On Studio and published by Focus Home Interactive, it was released in 2016 and features a single-player campaign that follows a group of Space Marines as they battle against the Genestealer menace. The game also features a multiplayer mode that allows players to team up and battle against hordes of enemies. The graphics and sound design are very impressive, with detailed models and atmospheric music. If you’re looking for a role-playing game with a strong storyline set in the Warhammer 40K universe, Space Hulk – Deathwing is a great choice.
3. Warhammer 40,000: Mechanicus
Warhammer 40,000: Mechanicus is a role-playing game set in the Warhammer 40K universe. Developed by Bulwark Studios and published by Kasedo Games, it was released in 2018 and features a single-player campaign that follows the Adeptus Mechanicus as they explore a Necron tomb. The game features a variety of playable characters, each with their own unique abilities and upgrades. The graphics and sound design are very impressive, with detailed models and atmospheric music. If you’re looking for a role-playing game with a unique setting set in the Warhammer 40K universe, Mechanicus is a great choice.
Conclusion
Warhammer 40K is a vast and complex universe, and the games based on it reflect that. Whether you’re looking for a real-time strategy game, a first-person shooter, or a role-playing game, there is no shortage of options when it comes to Warhammer 40K video games. When choosing a game to play, it’s important to consider the gameplay, the accuracy of the source material, and the strength of the community. With that in mind, any of the games on this list are sure to provide hours of engaging gameplay and immersive storytelling.