If you’ve been thinking about getting into Warhammer, this is probably the moment that pulls you in. Warhammer: The Old World brings back that classic fantasy battlefield feel – ranked infantry, cavalry charges, monsters, magic, and proper tactical play. It’s less about small skirmishes and more about commanding an army, which is exactly what makes it so satisfying.
This guide is here to help you with the biggest first decision: which faction to choose.
What Is Warhammer: The Old World?
At its core, it’s a fantasy mass-battle tabletop wargame set in the Warhammer world. You’ll be moving units in formation, setting up charges, managing morale, and supporting your army with heroes and magic.
It rewards:
- Smart positioning
- Timing your charges
- Supporting units properly
- Thinking ahead
It’s a bit more methodical than Warhammer 40,000, and that’s exactly why so many players love it.
Choosing Your First Faction
Here’s the honest truth:
There isn’t a “best” faction – only the one you actually enjoy.
Rules change over time. What doesn’t change is whether you like the look, lore, and playstyle of your army. If you enjoy those, you’ll stick with it.
Below is a complete, up-to-date overview of the key factions to help you decide.
Empire of Man
The classic “human” army and a great all-rounder. The Empire of Man combines infantry, cavalry, artillery, and magic.
- Playstyle: Balanced and flexible
- Strengths: Cannons, infantry blocks, combined tactics
- Vibe: Renaissance Europe with magic and gunpowder
A strong starting point if you want to learn every aspect of the game.
Orcs & Goblins
Unpredictable, loud and full of character. Orcs & Goblins are all about aggression, chaos and more importantly fun!.
- Playstyle: Wild and offensive
- Strengths: Large units, brutal combat, variety
- Vibe: Pure mayhem
If you like fun, unpredictable gameplay – this is it.
Dwarfs
Slow but incredibly reliable. Dwarven Mountain Holds focus on defence, firepower and discipline.
- Playstyle: Defensive and methodical
- Strengths: Shooting, armour, leadership
- Vibe: Stubborn and hardy warriors with ancient grudges
Ideal if you prefer holding ground and punishing enemies.
High Elves
Elegant, elite, and precise. High Elves reward careful positioning and timing.
- Playstyle: Fast and technical
- Strengths: Magic, elite units, speed
- Vibe: Noble and refined
They can be unforgiving, but very rewarding.
Wood Elves
Masters of mobility and ranged warfare. Wood Elves excel at hit-and-run tactics.
- Playstyle: Mobile and evasive
- Strengths: Archery, manoeuvre, terrain use
- Vibe: Forest spirits and guerrilla fighters
Great if you prefer outplaying opponents rather than overpowering them.
Bretonnia
Knights charging across the battlefield – simple as that. Bretonnia is all about cavalry.
- Playstyle: Charge-focused
- Strengths: Heavy cavalry, speed and impact
- Vibe: Medieval France meets fantasy battlefield
If you want dramatic, decisive turns, Bretonnia delivers.
Tomb Kings of Khemri
Ancient undead legions marching to war. Tomb Kings of Khemri bring synergy and a unique playstyle.
- Playstyle: Structured and synergy-based
- Strengths: Constructs, magic, resilience
- Vibe: Egyptian-inspired undead
A great choice if you want something thematic and different.
Warriors of Chaos
Heavy armour, brutal combat, and raw power. Warriors of Chaos are straightforward and deadly.
- Playstyle: Aggressive
- Strengths: Elite units, durability
- Vibe: Dark champions of Chaos
Perfect if you just want to push forward and fight.
Beastmen Brayherds
Ambush specialists that thrive on disruption. Beastmen Brayherds are aggressive and unconventional.
- Playstyle: Ambush and pressure
- Strengths: Mobility, surprise attacks
- Vibe: Savage and chaotic
Great if you like keeping opponents off balance.
Grand Cathay
One of the standout newer factions in Warhammer: The Old World, the Grand Cathay focuses on harmony and coordination.
- Playstyle: Structured and synergistic
- Strengths: Formations, ranged units and leadership buffs
- Vibe: Ancient China-inspired empire with celestial influence
Cathay rewards careful positioning and combined tactics, they make a great new addition to the game.
So… Which Army Should You Choose?
Still stuck? Here’s a quick way to decide:
- Balanced gameplay: Empire
- Unpredictable fun: Orcs & Goblins
- Defensive strength: Dwarfs
- Elite precision: High Elves
- Mobility and tactics: Wood Elves
- Big cavalry charges: Bretonnia
- Unique undead: Tomb Kings
- Brute force: Chaos
- Ambush tactics: Beastmen
- Structured synergy: Cathay
But honestly?
Pick the one you think looks the best – the rule of cool always wins the day, you !
Getting Started
Once you’ve chosen your faction:
- Start with a core unit or starter set
- Build gradually
- Play smaller games first
That’s the easiest way to learn without feeling overwhelmed.
If you’ve found an army you like, it’s worth taking that next step – we stock a growing range of Warhammer: The Old World miniatures to help you get started and build your force over time.
Why Warhammer: The Old World Is Worth It
There’s something genuinely satisfying about ranked armies clashing- watching your battle plan come together (or fall apart) in real time.
If you enjoy strategy, hobby building, and immersive worlds, this is one of the best tabletop games to get into right now.
FAQ (SEO Snippet Optimised)
What is Warhammer The Old World?
It’s a fantasy tabletop wargame focused on ranked battles, strategy and army-based gameplay.
Which faction is best for beginners?
The Empire of Man is often the easiest to start with due to its balanced playstyle.
How do I choose my first army?
Pick the faction you like the look and theme of most – rules change but enjoyment doesn’t.
Is Warhammer The Old World beginner friendly?
Yes – start small, learn the basics and build your army over time.
