Frequently Asked Questions
The most-asked questions about Warhammer Fantasy.
What is Warhammer Fantasy?
Warhammer Fantasy is a discontinued tabletop wargame and rich fictional universe set in the dark, medieval world of the Old World. It features epic conflicts between humans, elves, dwarfs, and various monstrous races amidst a backdrop of magic and ancient gods.
Is Warhammer Fantasy still being produced?
No, Games Workshop officially retired the setting in 2015 to focus on its grimdark successor, Warhammer Age of Sigmar. However, the lore remains popular through novels, video games, and an active fan community that keeps the world alive.
Who are the most famous characters?
Key figures include Vlad von Carstein, the vampire lord who founded Sylvania; Gotrek Gurnisson, a dwarf warrior obsessed with slaying monsters; and Sigmar Heldenhammer, the legendary founder of the Empire.
What is the best way for a newcomer to start?
Newcomers should begin by reading the 'Saga' novels or playing the video game Total War: Warhammer to grasp the tone and factions. Once familiar with the lore, players can explore fan-made resources or seek out used miniatures from the final editions.
What is the Chaos God Tzeentch?
Tzeentch is the Prince of Change, representing hope, ambition, and treachery within the pantheon of Chaos. He constantly schemes to alter fate and manipulate mortals into serving his grand, often incomprehensible designs.
Why did the world end in the lore?
The setting concluded with the 'End Times,' a cataclysmic event where the forces of Chaos overran the Old World and shattered reality. This destruction was necessary to clear the board for the new Age of Sigmar dimension.
What is the Empire?
The Empire is the primary human nation, a fractured collection of city-states united by faith in Sigmar and the Emperor. It serves as the central bastion of order against the encroaching threats of monsters and dark magic.
Who are the Dark Elves?
The Dark Elves, or Druchii, are a cruel, seafaring race exiled from their elven kin who worship Khaine, the god of murder. They thrive on slavery, assassination, and raiding, viewing weakness as the ultimate sin.
What is the difference between this setting and Age of Sigmar?
While Warhammer Fantasy featured a grounded, medieval Earth-like geography, Age of Sigmar takes place in a shattered realm of floating continents with more fantastical rules. The new setting also removed specific historical factions like the Empire in favor of broader allegiance groups.
Where can I find official lore now?
Since the line is discontinued, most official lore exists within the vast library of Black Library novels and the original rulebooks from 2006 to 2015. Fans also rely on digital archives and community wikis to access these historical documents.