Episode 44: The History of 40K Part 4

by Vachones · Published July 15, 2017 · Updated July 15, 2017

In this episode, we finish our discussion of the history of Warhammer 40k by talking about New 40k. Rather than simply talk about the changes, we wanted to discuss this new edition in the context of what has come before it. Of course we will offer our own first impressions on this edition having played many games already. We will also talk about what you can look forward to from us as a result of this new edition of 40K.

Introduction

How did we get to this new edition?

1st edition was a hybrid role playing and tabletop miniatures game.

2nd edition evolved into a better miniature game, but the rules really favored small scale skirmishes.

3rd edition blew up everything. It standardized the game for a larger scale by creating unit types rather than custom rules, introduced force organization charts, and had a set of missions to run.

4th and 5th were evolutions of the game, with USRs implemented, the scale increasing, and a firm “grim dark” theme.”

6th and 7th were efforts to take that same framework and add more cinematic elements. The game became one of high quality products meant to be played with friends.

New 40k

How has the setting/story evolved?

Grim dark was a setting, one with no hope, just a slow march toward the inevitable… something.
There were stories, but most were either huge warzones or battles (Armageddon or Sanctus Reach or the Black Crusades).
Starting with supplements, they moved the story forward.
Supplements and campaigns to move toward classic, larger than life heroes and villains and ‘neutral’ characters.

How has the look changed?

Grim dark is a product of its time.
The changes are meant to move 40k into the present aesthetic.
New 40k tells a story to fit the times. Echoes of more recent comic books and anime inspiration.

How has the game changed?

Shed all the baggage from previous editions and start fresh
Consistency across units and weapons.
Make the game less of a simulation and more abstract. The cinematic feel is in the models and the tables.
Games are shorter.
Games are easier to learn.
More clean rules and less subjective interpretations, like templates or cover saves.
Separate the game into matched, narrative, and open rather than confuse or combine them. Recognizing the potential of matched or tournament play

How will 40k move forward?