Was Warhammer 40k or Fantasy first?

Was Warhammer 40k or Fantasy first?

Warhammer 40k and Warhammer Fantasy are two of the most popular tabletop miniature wargames created by Games Workshop. While both games have their own unique settings and gameplay mechanics, they share a common history. In this article, we will explore the origins of both games and answer the question: Was Warhammer 40k or Fantasy first?

The Early Years

Games Workshop was founded in 1975 by Ian Livingstone and Steve Jackson. The company’s first product was a medieval-themed tabletop game called Battledroids, which was later renamed Space Crusade. This game was a science fiction-themed miniature wargame that was set in a futuristic universe.

Warhammer Fantasy

In 1983, Games Workshop released Warhammer: First Edition, a fantasy-themed miniature wargame set in a medieval-inspired world. This game was designed by Bryan Ansell, Richard Halliwell, and Rick Priestley, and it was an instant success. The game’s setting was inspired by European folklore and mythology, and it featured a wide range of fantasy creatures, including elves, dwarves, and orcs.

Warhammer 40k

In 1987, Games Workshop released Warhammer 40,000: Rogue Trader, a science fiction-themed miniature wargame set in a grimdark future. This game was designed by Bryan Ansell, Richard Halliwell, and Rick Priestley, and it was an instant success. The game’s setting was inspired by science fiction and horror movies, and it featured a wide range of futuristic creatures, including space marines, aliens, and mutants.

The Connection

While Warhammer Fantasy and Warhammer 40k are two separate games, they share a common connection. Warhammer 40k was originally conceived as a science fiction spin-off of Warhammer Fantasy. The game’s designers drew inspiration from the fantasy setting and adapted it to a science fiction context.

Key Differences

Despite their shared connection, Warhammer Fantasy and Warhammer 40k have some key differences. Here are a few:

• Setting: Warhammer Fantasy is set in a medieval-inspired world, while Warhammer 40k is set in a grimdark future.
• Gameplay: Warhammer Fantasy is a more traditional tabletop miniature wargame, while Warhammer 40k is a more tactical and strategic game.
• Miniatures: Warhammer Fantasy features a wide range of fantasy creatures, while Warhammer 40k features a wide range of futuristic creatures.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Warhammer Fantasy was the first game released by Games Workshop, and it was followed by Warhammer 40k in 1987. While both games share a common connection, they have some key differences. Warhammer Fantasy is set in a medieval-inspired world and features a wide range of fantasy creatures, while Warhammer 40k is set in a grimdark future and features a wide range of futuristic creatures.

Table: Warhammer Fantasy vs Warhammer 40k

References

• Games Workshop. (1983). Warhammer: First Edition.
• Games Workshop. (1987). Warhammer 40,000: Rogue Trader.
• Ansell, B., Halliwell, R., & Priestley, R. (1987). Warhammer 40,000: Rogue Trader. Games Workshop.

I hope this article helps to answer the question: Was Warhammer 40k or Fantasy first? Let me know if you have any further questions or need any additional information.