Warhammer vs. Warhammer 40k: Unraveling the Timeline
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The question of which came first, Warhammer or Warhammer 40k, is a common one, often leading to confusion due to the interconnected lore and shared heritage. The short answer is: Warhammer (specifically, Warhammer Fantasy Battle) is older than Warhammer 40,000. Warhammer Fantasy Battle was first released in 1983, while Warhammer 40,000 followed in 1987. This four-year difference marks a significant distinction in their origins and development. However, the relationship between these two universes is much more nuanced than a simple chronological order. Let’s delve into the details of their history, and explore the complex interweaving of their respective worlds.
The Genesis of Warhammer
Humble Beginnings
Games Workshop, the company behind both Warhammer and Warhammer 40,000, initially made miniature models for use in games like Dungeons & Dragons. In a strategic move, they developed Warhammer Fantasy Battle in 1983. This fantasy tabletop wargame was explicitly designed to encourage customers to purchase more miniatures, providing a detailed and engaging system to use them. The first edition of Warhammer was a ground breaking mix of historical wargaming principles and mythic fantasy, creating a unique hobby.
The Fantasy World of Warhammer
Warhammer Fantasy, often shortened to just Warhammer, is set in a world brimming with classic fantasy tropes. It is populated by races like Elves, Dwarfs, Orcs, and Goblins, amongst other fantastical creatures. The setting draws inspiration from various historical and mythical sources, creating a rich and detailed world. This setting is more akin to a late Renaissance or early modern period, incorporating elements from the Thirty Years War.
The Rise of Warhammer 40,000
A Sci-Fi Spinoff
The success of Warhammer Fantasy paved the way for Warhammer 40,000, often called 40k, a science-fiction spinoff of the original game. Released in 1987, it transposed the core mechanics of the original Warhammer, into a grim dark future of the 41st millennium. The idea was to capture a similar style of gameplay but with the added appeal of science fiction.
The Grim Darkness of the Far Future
Warhammer 40k is set in a universe where humanity is embroiled in a never-ending war against various alien races and internal threats. The game features factions such as the Orks (similar to Orcs), Eldar, Necrons, T’au, and Tyranids, each with their distinct styles and backstories. The setting is notably darker, more brutal and far more technologically advanced than its fantasy counterpart. It’s a universe filled with constant conflict and desperation.
The Connection Through the Warp
Though distinct, the worlds of Warhammer Fantasy and 40k share a conceptual link through a mysterious realm known as the Warp. This dimension of chaotic energy allows for some conceptual overlap between the two universes. The Elves of WHF are similar to the Eldar of 40k, and the Slann of the Lizardmen have echoes in the Old Ones of 40k, but these are not the same entities. This connection keeps the universes separate but allows fans to speculate on their interconnectedness.
Discontinuation and Legacy
Warhammer Fantasy Battle was officially discontinued in 2015, with the last supplementary rulebook released in that same year. This was due to a variety of reasons, such as lawsuits with competitors and falling player numbers. It was replaced with Warhammer Age of Sigmar, a new setting and game system using the same miniatures. The legacy of the original Warhammer Fantasy is carried on through its influence on Age of Sigmar and still remains incredibly popular among dedicated fans. Meanwhile, Warhammer 40k has continued to thrive and grow in popularity over the years, making it the more prominent of the two Warhammer settings currently.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is Warhammer the past of 40k?
No, Warhammer Fantasy and Warhammer 40k are not directly connected as past and future. They are separate universes linked by the Warp. While they share similar concepts and names for some races, they are not the same races. They are two distinct settings.
2. Which Warhammer is more popular?
Warhammer 40k is currently more popular due to its continuous development, decades of lore, and gameplay support. Its darker, more futuristic setting has resonated with a wider audience.
3. Did Warhammer come before D&D?
No, Dungeons & Dragons was published in 1974, before Warhammer which was first released in 1983. Warhammer Fantasy Roleplay, the role-playing version of Warhammer Fantasy, was designed after D&D and took a darker spin on the same concept.
4. Is Warhammer Fantasy no longer supported?
Yes, Warhammer Fantasy Battle is no longer supported by Games Workshop. It was replaced by Warhammer Age of Sigmar in 2015, which is a new setting with a different game system.
5. Was there ever a Warhammer 40k movie?
Yes, Ultramarines: A Warhammer 40,000 Movie was released in 2010. It follows a squad of Ultramarines answering a distress call.
6. Is Total War Warhammer a prequel to 40k?
No, Total War: Warhammer is not a direct prequel to 40k. They are different universes owned by the same company, with different timelines and backdrops, but Total War: Warhammer draws from the Warhammer Fantasy universe.
7. Why is Warhammer called 40k?
The “40,000” in Warhammer 40k refers to the fact that it’s set in the 40th millennium. The name was created to differentiate the futuristic spin off from the original setting.
8. Is Warhammer medieval or future?
Warhammer Fantasy is a fantasy setting, though not strictly medieval. It has some influences from the Late Renaissance to the Early Modern period. Warhammer 40k is a science fiction setting set in the far future.
9. Which Warhammer 40k god is the oldest?
According to some sources and books such as Realm of Chaos and the 2nd Edition Chaos Codex, Khorne is considered the oldest Chaos God in Warhammer 40k, with Nurgle being the third to come into being, not the oldest. However, this can depend on the specific narrative and source material.
10. When did Warhammer first start?
Warhammer: First Edition was released in 1983. This was the official launch of the fantasy wargame that would lead to the development of Warhammer 40k.
11. Is Warhammer older than World of Warcraft (WoW)?
Yes, Warhammer is older than World of Warcraft. Warhammer was first released in 1983, while Warcraft was released in 1994.
12. Is Warhammer inspired by DND?
Yes, Warhammer Fantasy Roleplay was inspired by D&D and took a darker, grittier take on the tabletop RPG.
13. Should I play Age of Sigmar or 40K?
Age of Sigmar is a more streamlined and accessible game with a high fantasy setting, making it good for beginners. Warhammer 40k offers a deeper, more complex experience in a darker science fiction setting, suitable for players willing to learn its intricacies.
14. How many people play Warhammer 40K?
Estimated at about 2.4 million people for Warhammer 40k, within the English-speaking universe with a tiny percentage being competitive players (0.6%).
15. Is Total War: Warhammer a AAA game?
Yes, Total War: Warhammer titles are considered AAA games within the Total War series. They are big releases with advanced tech and features.
In summary, while they share a common heritage and continue to fascinate players with their vast worlds and compelling stories, Warhammer Fantasy Battle came first, laying the foundation for the grim and futuristic universe of Warhammer 40,000. Understanding their chronological order and how they evolved will help fans fully appreciate the rich lore and diverse gameplay that both systems offer.