Our Verdict
FOR GENRE FANS
If you're a card game fan who enjoys a good dose of strategy with a touch of luck, this game is for you! It's a classic that delivers a very complete wargame experience.
Highlights
- Detailed and immersive rules
- Wide variety of units
- High-quality components
- Rich and engaging setting
Keep in mind
- Steep learning curve
- Long playtime
- Requires considerable space
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About the game
What you do in a play session
Prepare to dive headfirst into the dark and brutal universe of Warhammer 40,000 with this classic second edition! Released in 1993, this miniature wargame throws you into the middle of epic galactic battles. Unlike more recent versions, the rules here are more focused, and games tend to be on a smaller scale, but no less intense. You'll command iconic armies like Space Marines and Orks, each with their own unique tactics and special units, ensuring each side of the table has a distinct feel. The fun starts with assembling and painting the miniatures, a sacred ritual for many fans, and continues on the battlefield with measurement movement, line of sight, and plenty of dice rolling to decide your warriors' fate. The game is packed with components: a detailed rulebook, wargear cards, army lists, scenarios, painting guides, and even an introductory scenario for newcomers. It also includes miniatures of Orks, Gretchin, Space Marines, vehicles like Rhinos and Dreadnoughts, as well as wargear and mission cards that add that extra spice. The modular board allows for varied battlefields, and unexpected events can turn the tide at any moment. It's a more simulationist and tactical experience, requiring attention to detail and good planning to overcome the enemy. Perfect for those who enjoy a deep wargame with a lore-rich science fiction setting.
Gallery
Box and component photos
Tap any photo to open fullscreen. Photos submitted by the community or publisher.
Best player count
BGG community vote
2
BEST
3
OK
4
OK
5
OK
6
OK
Soundtrack
Ambience suggested by Melodice
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Mechanics, categories, families and credits
Mechanics
Categories
Families
Publisher
Games Workshop Ltd.
Designer
Andy Chambers, Rick Priestley
Artist
David Gallagher, Jes Goodwin, John Blanche, Mark Gibbons, Wayne England
Community
Data from BoardGameGeek
221owners
7wishlist
4want to play
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers before you buy
Is this the complete Warhammer 40,000 game or just an expansion?
This is the second edition of the main Warhammer 40,000 rulebook, released in 1993. It contains the core rules and components to play, but many detailed factions and units came in supplementary books (Codex).
How many people can play, and how long does a game take?
The game is for 2 to 6 players, and a game can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the scenario's complexity and the number of players involved.
Is it too complicated for someone new to wargames?
It's considered a medium-heavy weight game (4.16/5 on BGG). The rules are detailed, especially for those unfamiliar with wargames, but there's an introductory guide to help.
Do I need to buy miniatures separately?
The original starter set came with several Ork and Space Marine miniatures, plus vehicles. If you only buy the rulebook, miniatures are not included.
What's the difference compared to the current versions of Warhammer 40,000?
The 1993 second edition has simpler rules and focuses on smaller battles compared to more recent editions. The setting and basic mechanics are the same, but the rules have evolved significantly.
Is the game only in English?
The original rulebook is in English. To play in Brazil, you would likely need translations for cards and rules, as the game did not have an official Portuguese release.