If you’re searching for the correct Warhammer games in order, this guide covers the major Warhammer video games across both the fantasy and sci-fi universes. The Warhammer franchise is one of the largest and most complex gaming universes ever created, featuring brutal warfare, deep lore, and dozens of strategy, RPG, and action games.
This guide explains the best Warhammer games in order, including release order and chronological context, so you can better understand the difference between Warhammer Fantasy, Warhammer 40,000, and their many spin-offs.
Understanding the Warhammer Universe
Before diving into the Warhammer games in order, it is important to understand that the franchise is divided into two main universes:
- Warhammer Fantasy – A dark fantasy setting filled with magic, kingdoms, monsters, and medieval warfare.
- Warhammer 40,000 – A grimdark sci-fi universe set in the far future where humanity fights endless wars across the galaxy.
Because of this split, there is no single universal timeline connecting every game together.
Official franchise information: Warhammer Official Website
Best Way to Play Warhammer Games
The best way to experience the Warhammer games in order depends on which universe interests you most. New players usually start with modern titles because older entries can feel dated.
For strategy fans, the Total War: Warhammer trilogy is often recommended. For action-focused players, Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine and Darktide are strong entry points.
Unlike story-driven franchises, Warhammer focuses more heavily on world-building, faction lore, and large-scale conflicts rather than a single connected protagonist storyline.
Major Warhammer Games in Release Order
- Warhammer: Shadow of the Horned Rat (1995)
- Warhammer 40,000: Chaos Gate (1998)
- Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War (2004)
- Warhammer: Mark of Chaos (2006)
- Warhammer Online: Age of Reckoning (2008)
- Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine (2011)
- Total War: Warhammer (2016)
- Warhammer: Vermintide 2 (2018)
- Total War: Warhammer II (2017)
- Total War: Warhammer III (2022)
- Warhammer 40,000: Darktide (2022)
- Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 (2024)
Warhammer Games Chronological Order
The Warhammer games in order cannot be placed into one strict chronological timeline because multiple universes and spin-offs exist simultaneously.
However, the general structure works like this:
- Warhammer Fantasy timeline → Vermintide → Total War: Warhammer series
- Warhammer 40K timeline → Dawn of War → Space Marine → Darktide → Space Marine 2
Most games are designed so newcomers can jump in without extensive lore knowledge, although understanding factions and historical events greatly improves the experience.
Why Warhammer Became So Popular
The Warhammer franchise became globally successful because of its incredibly detailed world-building and unique tone. Few franchises combine large-scale warfare, gothic aesthetics, political conflict, cosmic horror, and religious fanaticism as effectively.
The Warhammer 40K universe especially became famous for its “grimdark” atmosphere where there is “only war.” Humanity survives in an endless state of conflict against aliens, demons, and internal corruption.
Meanwhile, Warhammer Fantasy focuses more on kingdoms, magic, monsters, and apocalyptic warfare inspired by classic fantasy settings.
Gameplay Variety Across the Franchise
One reason the Warhammer games in order attract so many players is the sheer variety of genres available.
The franchise includes:
- Real-time strategy games
- Turn-based tactical games
- Action shooters
- Hack-and-slash combat games
- Co-op survival games
- Massive grand strategy experiences
This flexibility allows nearly every type of gamer to find an entry point into the Warhammer universe.
More publisher information: Games Workshop Official Site
FAQ
Should I play Warhammer games in release order?
Not necessarily. Many players start with modern games because the franchise is massive and older entries can feel outdated.
What is the difference between Warhammer and Warhammer 40K?
Warhammer Fantasy is a medieval fantasy setting, while Warhammer 40K is a futuristic sci-fi universe.
Which Warhammer game is best for beginners?
Total War: Warhammer and Space Marine are commonly recommended entry points depending on whether you prefer strategy or action gameplay.
Is Warhammer connected to Warcraft?
No, although early Warcraft games were heavily inspired by Warhammer Fantasy aesthetics.
Download Checklist
Warhammer games in order: 📥 Download Warhammer Games Checklist (Free PDF)
Final Thoughts
The Warhammer games in order represent one of the largest and most ambitious universes in gaming history. Whether you prefer dark fantasy warfare or brutal sci-fi conflict, Warhammer offers endless lore, memorable factions, and massive-scale battles.
Because the franchise spans so many genres and universes, there is no single perfect starting point. The best approach is to choose the setting and gameplay style that interests you most and expand from there.