Why isn’t there a 40k Total War?
As a fan of the popular game series Total War and the Warhammer 40k universe, you’re likely wondering why we haven’t seen a 40k Total War game yet. In this article, we’ll explore the possible reasons behind this and whether a 40k Total War game is even plausible in the future.
A Brief History of Total War
Before diving into the reasons why a 40k Total War game might not exist, let’s take a quick look at the history of Total War. The series debuted in 2000 with Shogun: Total War, followed by Rome: Total War in 2004. Since then, we’ve seen a multitude of games set in different eras and locations, from Medieval: Total War to Rome II: Total War and even the recently released Total War: Warhammer and Total War: Three Kingdoms.
The Warhammer 40k Universe
Warhammer 40k, on the other hand, is a vast and complex universe created by Games Workshop. This dark, gothic-fantasy setting is known for its grim darkness, iconic sci-fi elements, and detailed lore. With numerous games, novels, and even a popular tabletop game, Warhammer 40k has become a staple in the gaming community.
Why a 40k Total War Game Makes Sense
So, what are the reasons why we should see a 40k Total War game?
• Rich Lore: The Warhammer 40k universe is rich in lore, with a long history of conflicts, rivalries, and powerful factions vying for dominance.
• Diverse Playstyle: A 40k Total War game would allow players to experience different playstyles, from grim-dark space marines to sneaky inquisitors.
• Unlikely Factions: Players would be able to play as some of the most unique and unlikely factions in the 40k universe, such as the Orks or the Tyranids.
• Action-packed: A 40k Total War game would blend tactical combat with action-packed moments, making for a thrilling experience.
Possible Barriers to a 40k Total War Game
Despite the potential success of a 40k Total War game, there are several reasons why we haven’t seen one yet.
• IP and License Issues: Games Workshop and Creative Assembly, the developer of Total War, have a complex relationship regarding licenses and intellectual property rights. This might make it challenging to create a game that meets both parties’ requirements.
• Dilution of Brand Identity: Fans are passionately divided between Total War and Warhammer, and a 40k Total War game could risk diluting the identity and lore of one or both of these beloved franchises.
• Resource Constraints: Creative Assembly has been working on numerous Total War games over the years, and producing a 40k Total War game would require a significant investment of resources.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while a 40k Total War game may seem like a natural fit, there are several obstacles to overcome. Creative Assembly, Games Workshop, and license holders would need to iron out their differences regarding intellectual property rights, franchise branding, and resource constraints.
However, fans will keep dreaming, and there is always a possibility that the stars will align to create a 40k Total War game. Here are some potential solutions that could make a 40k Total War game feasible:
• Spin-offs or Adaptations: If the licenses and branding issues cannot be resolved, a 40k Total War spin-off or adaptation could allow developers to create a more manageable, standalone game.
• Collaborations and Co-Developments: Cooperative efforts between Creative Assembly and Games Workshop could provide the necessary resources and knowledge to create a high-quality, 40k-infused Total War game.
Keep in mind that all possibilities, no matter how slight, are worth exploring when discussing the potential of a 40k Total War game.