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How to play the Warhammer 40K games in order

Image via Relic Entertainment

Originally conceived as a tactical tabletop experience by Games Workshop, the Warhammer 40,000 franchise debuted with its inaugural release in the late 1980s. Subsequent adaptations expanded across multiple formats, creating an extensive catalog that might overwhelm newcomers seeking entry points into this sci-fi universe.

Suggested progression through Warhammer 40K titles

Warhammer 40000: Armageddon
Image via Relic Entertainment

Consider this sequence for experiencing key entries in the franchise:

  1. Darktide
  2. Shootas, Blood & Teef
  3. Chaos Gate – Daemonhunters
  4. Battle Sector
  5. Dakka Squadron
  6. Inquisitor – Prophecy
  7. Mechanicus
  8. Inquisitor – Martyr
  9. Sanctus Reach
  10. Eternal Crusade
  11. Freeblade
  12. Deathwatch – Tyranid Invasion
  13. Regicide
  14. Ascension
  15. Storm of Vengeance
  16. Space Wolf
  17. Armageddon
  18. Space Hulk
  19. Space Marine
  20. Kill Team
  21. Dawn of War I, II, III, and expansion packs
  22. Fire Warrior
  23. Rites of War
  24. Chaos Gate

The turn-based tactical experience Warhammer 40,000: Chaos Gate immerses players in strategic conflicts during the Horus Heresy era. Controlling elite Ultramarines operatives, participants uncover mysteries surrounding planetary disturbances within the Imperium’s territories.

Subsequent expansions like Rites of Conflict and Fire Soldier explore narrative threads establishing faction dynamics. The acclaimed Dawn of War trilogy forms the franchise backbone through its evolving real-time strategic warfare mechanics and faction diversification. Derivative entries examine specialized combat scenarios, ranging from squad tactics to aerial engagements.

While chronological progression isn’t mandatory, sequential playthroughs enhance comprehension of interwoven galactic conflicts. The series offers diverse interactive formats including strategy simulations and action-oriented combat systems, unified by their focus on decisive military supremacy in a dystopian future.