Warhammer Old World Army Builder is your gateway to crafting formidable armies for the tabletop battles of Warhammer: The Old World. It’s a journey through the history and evolution of army building, where you’ll learn the fundamental concepts of unit selection and army composition.
Prepare to delve into the intricacies of different factions, each with its own unique playstyle and strengths, ready to clash in epic battles.
This guide will explore the essential core units, from infantry and archers to cavalry, revealing their strengths and weaknesses. You’ll learn how to effectively deploy and utilize them in battle, mastering the art of maneuvering and strategic positioning. But it’s not just about the basics; we’ll also dive into the impact of special units, such as heroes, monsters, and artillery, which can turn the tide of battle.
Introduction to Warhammer Old World Army Building
The art of building an army in Warhammer: The Old World is a multifaceted endeavor, blending strategy, lore, and personal preference. The game’s rich history and evolving rules have shaped the army building experience, creating a dynamic and engaging system that rewards careful planning and creative thinking.
Army Composition and Unit Selection
Understanding the fundamental principles of army composition is essential for success in Warhammer: The Old World. A balanced army typically consists of a variety of units, each fulfilling a specific role on the battlefield.The basic building blocks of any army are:
- Core Units: These are the backbone of your army, providing the bulk of your troops and forming the foundation for your battle plans. They are typically the most numerous and versatile units in your army. Examples include Swordsmen, Spearmen, and Bowmen.
- Special Units: These units offer unique abilities and strengths, often filling specialized roles on the battlefield. They can provide firepower, close combat prowess, or tactical flexibility. Examples include Knights, Chariot units, and specialized regiments.
- Rare Units: These units are the elite of your army, often possessing exceptional abilities and high cost. They can be game-changers, capable of turning the tide of battle. Examples include powerful heroes, magical units, and monstrous creatures.
The optimal mix of units will vary depending on the chosen faction, the specific battle plan, and the opponent’s army.
Faction Overview
Warhammer: The Old World boasts a diverse array of factions, each with its own unique strengths, weaknesses, and playstyle.
- The Empire: The Empire is a human faction known for its disciplined armies, powerful artillery, and a strong focus on ranged combat. They excel at holding defensive positions and punishing enemies with long-range firepower. Their iconic units include the Empire State Troops, the Empire Knights, and the powerful Hellstorm Rocket Battery.
- Bretonnia: Bretonnia is a kingdom of knights and chivalry, renowned for its mounted combat prowess and unwavering faith. They are best known for their powerful Knights of the Realm, their holy Men-at-Arms, and the legendary Lady of the Lake.
Bretonnian armies are designed for aggressive charges and overwhelming the enemy with sheer force.
- The Dwarfs: The Dwarfs are a steadfast and enduring race, known for their unwavering courage, superior craftsmanship, and unwavering dedication to their homeland. They excel at close combat, especially with their iconic Dwarven Warriors and their powerful Thunderers. Their focus on defensive fortifications and a strong sense of community make them a formidable opponent.
- The Greenskins: The Greenskins are a chaotic and savage horde, known for their sheer numbers, brutal fighting style, and a love for war and plunder. They are a force of nature, capable of overwhelming enemies with their massive numbers and ferocious attacks.
Their iconic units include the Orc Boyz, the Black Orc Boyz, and the devastating Giant.
- The Vampire Counts: The Vampire Counts are a sinister faction, ruled by the undead and fueled by dark magic. They are a formidable force, capable of summoning hordes of ghouls, skeletons, and other monstrous creatures. Their iconic units include the Vampire Lord, the Tomb Kings, and the fearsome Terrorgheist.
- The Chaos Dwarfs: The Chaos Dwarfs are a twisted and corrupted faction, worshipping the dark gods and fueled by hatred and greed. They are a powerful force, known for their brutal combat style, their advanced technology, and their fearsome Black Orcs.
Their iconic units include the Chaos Dwarf Warrior, the Ironclad, and the devastating Hellcannon.
- The Skaven: The Skaven are a secretive and insidious faction, driven by a thirst for power and a desire to conquer the world. They are a cunning and adaptable force, known for their vast numbers, their advanced technology, and their mastery of subterfuge.
Their iconic units include the Skaven Clanrat, the Plague Monk, and the terrifying Warp Lightning Cannon.
Each faction offers a unique and engaging playstyle, catering to different preferences and strategies. From the disciplined might of the Empire to the chaotic savagery of the Greenskins, the world of Warhammer: The Old World provides a wealth of options for players to explore.
The Warhammer Old World army builder allows you to craft a force that reflects your preferred playstyle, whether it’s a swift and brutal assault or a meticulously planned siege. For inspiration, you might check out the romana ryder lezpov army , a unique and effective force that emphasizes maneuverability and firepower.
While the Romana Ryder Lezpov army may not be directly translatable to the Warhammer Old World, its focus on flexibility and adaptability can offer valuable lessons for building your own Warhammer army.
Core Army Units and Their Roles

Core units are the backbone of any Warhammer Old World army, forming the largest portion of your force and often acting as the primary combat units. They are the workhorses of your army, engaging in the thick of the fighting and providing the bulk of your army’s combat power.
Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of core units is crucial for effective army building and deployment.
Infantry
Infantry units are the most versatile and numerous core unit type. They are typically armed with swords, spears, and shields, making them effective at both close-quarters combat and defending against ranged attacks.Infantry units excel in holding objectives, providing a solid line of defense, and engaging in close-quarters combat.
They are also relatively inexpensive to field, allowing you to build large, resilient formations. However, infantry units are vulnerable to ranged attacks and can be easily overwhelmed by superior numbers of cavalry or monstrous units.
Strengths of Infantry
- Versatility: Infantry can effectively engage in both close-quarters combat and defense against ranged attacks.
- Resilience: Infantry units can withstand significant casualties and hold their ground, especially when organized into formations.
- Cost-effective: Infantry units are relatively inexpensive to field, allowing you to build large, resilient formations.
- Objective control: Infantry units are excellent at holding objectives and providing a solid line of defense.
Weaknesses of Infantry
- Vulnerability to ranged attacks: Infantry units can be easily decimated by ranged attacks, especially from powerful units like archers or artillery.
- Susceptible to cavalry charges: Infantry units can be easily overwhelmed by charges from large numbers of cavalry, especially if they are not well-organized or have poor morale.
- Limited mobility: Infantry units are relatively slow and can be easily outmaneuvered by faster units, especially cavalry.
Deployment and Utilization
- Formations: Infantry units are most effective when deployed in formations, such as squares or lines, to maximize their resilience and defensive capabilities.
- Support: Infantry units should be supported by other units, such as archers or cavalry, to protect them from ranged attacks and provide them with offensive capabilities.
- Objective control: Infantry units should be deployed to hold key objectives, such as towns, bridges, or strategic locations.
Archers
Archers are the primary ranged unit type in the Warhammer Old World. They are armed with bows and arrows, allowing them to inflict damage on enemy units from a distance. Archers are crucial for weakening enemy units before they engage in close combat, harassing enemy flanks, and supporting your own infantry.
Strengths of Archers
- Ranged attacks: Archers can inflict damage on enemy units from a distance, without exposing themselves to close combat.
- Harassment: Archers can harass enemy units, forcing them to retreat or break formation, and preventing them from advancing.
- Support: Archers can provide valuable support to your own infantry by weakening enemy units before they engage in close combat.
Weaknesses of Archers
- Vulnerability to close combat: Archers are very vulnerable to close combat, especially against cavalry charges or melee-focused units.
- Limited range: Archers have a limited range, and they are often unable to reach units that are positioned behind cover or in difficult terrain.
- Morale: Archers are often fragile units with low morale, and they can easily break and flee if they are attacked or suffer heavy casualties.
Deployment and Utilization
- Flanks: Archers should be deployed on the flanks of your army to maximize their effectiveness and avoid being overwhelmed by enemy charges.
- Support: Archers should be deployed to support your own infantry by weakening enemy units before they engage in close combat.
- Terrain: Archers should be deployed in terrain that provides them with cover and concealment, such as forests or hills.
Cavalry
Cavalry units are the most mobile and offensive core unit type. They are typically armed with lances, swords, and bows, allowing them to charge into enemy formations and inflict heavy casualties. Cavalry units are crucial for flanking enemy units, breaking enemy formations, and pursuing fleeing enemies.
Strengths of Cavalry
- Mobility: Cavalry units are highly mobile and can quickly move around the battlefield, flanking enemy units and pursuing fleeing enemies.
- Offensive power: Cavalry units can inflict heavy casualties on enemy units with their charges, especially against infantry formations.
- Disruption: Cavalry units can disrupt enemy formations and force them to break, giving your own units an advantage in close combat.
Weaknesses of Cavalry
- Vulnerability to ranged attacks: Cavalry units are very vulnerable to ranged attacks, especially from archers or artillery.
- Morale: Cavalry units are often fragile units with low morale, and they can easily break and flee if they are attacked or suffer heavy casualties.
- Terrain: Cavalry units are often hampered by difficult terrain, such as forests or mountains, and they can be easily trapped or outmaneuvered by enemy units.
Deployment and Utilization
- Flanks: Cavalry units should be deployed on the flanks of your army to maximize their offensive capabilities and avoid being overwhelmed by enemy charges.
- Charges: Cavalry units should be used to charge into enemy formations, especially against infantry units, to inflict heavy casualties and break their formations.
- Pursuit: Cavalry units should be used to pursue fleeing enemies, preventing them from regrouping and inflicting further casualties.
Special Units and Their Impact
Special units, such as heroes, monsters, and artillery, are the powerful tools that can shift the balance of power in any Warhammer Old World battle. These units are often more expensive and require more careful planning than standard troops, but their unique abilities and devastating firepower can make them invaluable assets.These units are often designed to counter specific threats, exploit weaknesses in enemy formations, or break through enemy lines.
By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of these units, players can effectively incorporate them into their strategies and gain a significant advantage over their opponents.
Heroes
Heroes are the leaders and champions of your army, providing vital tactical and strategic support. They can lead your troops into battle, bolster their morale, and offer unique abilities that can turn the tide of a battle.Heroes can be equipped with powerful weapons, armor, and magical items that enhance their combat abilities and give them a significant edge over standard troops.
They can also be used to perform critical actions, such as flanking maneuvers, holding key positions, or assassinating enemy leaders.
Monsters
Monsters are fearsome creatures that can wreak havoc on the battlefield. They are often incredibly powerful, possessing high strength, toughness, and a wide range of devastating attacks.Monsters can be used to break through enemy lines, target enemy heroes or artillery, or simply overwhelm weaker units with their sheer might.
Their presence alone can demoralize enemy troops and create opportunities for your other units to advance.
Artillery, Warhammer old world army builder
Artillery units provide long-range firepower, capable of bombarding enemy formations and softening them up for your infantry or cavalry charges. They can also be used to suppress enemy units, force them to retreat, or even destroy enemy fortifications.Artillery units are often slow and vulnerable to close-combat attacks, so they must be carefully positioned and protected.
However, their ability to inflict significant damage from a distance makes them a valuable asset in any army.
Effective Strategies Using Special Units
- Heroes as Battle Leaders:Deploy heroes alongside your core units to inspire and motivate your troops. Their leadership bonuses can increase the morale and combat effectiveness of nearby units, making them more likely to stand their ground and fight harder.
- Monsters as Shock Troops:Use monsters to break through enemy lines and create chaos. Their overwhelming power can create opportunities for your other units to exploit, allowing you to surround and destroy enemy forces.
- Artillery as Suppression:Position artillery units to bombard enemy units, forcing them to retreat or stay under cover. This can buy you valuable time to reposition your own forces or launch a flanking maneuver.
- Combined Arms:Utilize special units in conjunction with your core units to create a synergistic force. For example, a hero leading a charge of cavalry can be supported by artillery fire, softening up the enemy before the cavalry strike.
Army Building Strategies and Tactics
The art of Warhammer Old World army building lies in understanding the strengths and weaknesses of your chosen faction and crafting a force that synergizes effectively. This involves not only selecting units that are powerful individually but also considering how they complement each other in combat and on the battlefield.
Army Building Strategies Based on Faction Strengths and Weaknesses
Each faction in Warhammer Old World has its own unique strengths and weaknesses. Building an effective army requires capitalizing on these strengths while mitigating the weaknesses.
- Empire: Known for their versatile army, the Empire can field a variety of units, from heavily armored infantry to powerful artillery. A common strategy is to build a balanced army with a strong core of spearmen and handgunners, supported by powerful cavalry and artillery.
This allows the Empire to hold the line against enemy assaults while inflicting heavy casualties with ranged attacks.
- Bretonnia: The Knights of Bretonnia are renowned for their powerful cavalry charges. A common strategy is to build an army focused on overwhelming the enemy with a wave of mounted knights. However, Bretonnia can also field strong infantry and archers, allowing for a more balanced approach.
- Orcs & Goblins: Known for their overwhelming numbers and savage fighting style, Orcs & Goblins are best used in aggressive, all-out assaults. A common strategy is to build a large army with a mix of spear-wielding Goblins and powerful Orc units, such as Black Orcs and Boar Boys.
This allows them to overwhelm enemy lines with sheer numbers and brute force.
- Dwarfs: Renowned for their steadfast defense and powerful ranged attacks, Dwarfs are best used in defensive positions. A common strategy is to build an army with a strong core of Ironbreakers and Longbeards, supported by powerful artillery and ranged units like Thunderers.
This allows the Dwarfs to hold the line against enemy assaults while inflicting heavy casualties from afar.
Synergy in Army Composition
Synergy refers to the way different units in an army work together to achieve a common goal. It’s about creating a cohesive force where the strengths of individual units complement each other. For example, a unit of spearmen can hold the line against an enemy charge, allowing a unit of archers to unleash a devastating volley of arrows.
- Combined Arms: This involves using a mix of different unit types, such as infantry, cavalry, and ranged units, to create a well-rounded force capable of dealing with a variety of threats. For example, a force of spearmen can hold the line against enemy infantry, while cavalry can outflank and harass the enemy, and archers can provide long-range support.
- Supporting Roles: Units can also play supporting roles, providing essential benefits to other units. For example, a unit of magic users can buff the attack and defense of friendly units, or a unit of scouts can provide information about the enemy’s movements.
- Counter-Synergy: Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of different units allows you to create armies that can exploit the weaknesses of your opponent. For example, a unit of cavalry can be devastating against a unit of spearmen, but less effective against a unit of archers.
Examples of Successful Army Lists
Successful army lists are often built around a core concept or theme.
- The “Hammer and Anvil” Strategy: This strategy involves using a unit of heavy infantry to hold the enemy’s advance, while a unit of cavalry or other mobile units attacks from the flanks. This allows the enemy to be caught between two forces and destroyed.
- The “Ranged Assault” Strategy: This strategy involves using a large number of ranged units to inflict heavy casualties on the enemy before they can reach close combat. This is particularly effective against armies that rely heavily on melee combat.
- The “Magic-Heavy” Strategy: This strategy involves using a large number of magic users to control the battlefield and inflict heavy casualties on the enemy. This is particularly effective against armies that lack strong magic resistance.
Tools and Resources for Army Building

Building an army in the Warhammer Old World can be a daunting task, but thankfully, there are numerous tools and resources available to help you create a force that is both effective and enjoyable to play. These resources can help you plan your army, manage your lists, and even find inspiration for new strategies.
Popular Army Building Tools and Websites
The availability of online tools and websites dedicated to army building has revolutionized the Warhammer Old World experience. These platforms provide a wide range of features, from unit selection and point calculation to army list management and strategy analysis.
- Warhammer Age of Sigmar Army Builder:This official website offers a comprehensive tool for building armies in the Age of Sigmar. It allows you to select units, calculate points, and generate army lists. It also includes a searchable database of units, rules, and battleplans.
- Total War Warhammer 3:While primarily a video game, Total War Warhammer 3 also includes a powerful army builder. It allows you to create armies from various factions and test different unit combinations in battle simulations. The game’s interface is user-friendly, and it provides valuable insights into unit strengths and weaknesses.
- BattleScribe:This popular third-party tool is a versatile army builder that supports various tabletop wargames, including Warhammer Old World. BattleScribe allows you to create and manage army lists, generate rosters, and export lists for printing. It also offers features like unit selection, point calculation, and rules lookup.
- Warscroll Builder:This website is specifically designed for building armies in the Age of Sigmar. It offers a streamlined interface, a searchable database of units, and a points calculator. Warscroll Builder is known for its ease of use and its ability to generate lists in various formats.
Using Army Building Tools Effectively
These tools are designed to simplify the army building process and make it more efficient. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to use them effectively:
- Start with a Faction:Choose a faction that interests you and aligns with your preferred playstyle. Explore the faction’s lore, units, and special rules to gain a deeper understanding of its strengths and weaknesses.
- Define Your Goals:Determine your army’s purpose. Are you aiming for competitive play, casual games, or a specific historical battle? This will help you focus your army building efforts and choose units that align with your objectives.
- Explore Unit Options:Familiarize yourself with the available units within your chosen faction. Consider their strengths, weaknesses, and roles in combat. Use the tools’ search functions to filter units based on points, type, and s.
- Calculate Points:Most tools provide a points calculator that automatically determines the total points cost of your army. This ensures you stay within the specified points limit for your chosen game format.
- Experiment with Combinations:Don’t be afraid to experiment with different unit combinations. Try out various strategies and see what works best for your playstyle. Use the tools’ battle simulation features or test your armies in friendly games to evaluate their effectiveness.
- Save and Manage Lists:Save your army lists for easy access and modification. Most tools allow you to create multiple lists and organize them by faction, points limit, or game format.
Organizing and Managing Army Lists
Organizing your army lists effectively is crucial for efficient army building and game preparation. This section will discuss strategies for organizing and managing your lists.
- Folder Structure:Create a folder structure for your army lists. This can be organized by faction, points limit, or game format. For example, you could have a folder for “Empire Armies,” with subfolders for “1000 points,” “1500 points,” and “2000 points.” This allows you to quickly locate the lists you need.
- Naming Conventions:Use consistent naming conventions for your army lists. This makes it easier to identify and differentiate between them. For example, you could use a format like “Faction_Points_List Name” (e.g., “Empire_1000_Hammer of Sigmar”).
- List Descriptions:Add brief descriptions to your army lists. This can include information about the list’s purpose, strategy, or notable units. This helps you remember the rationale behind your army choices.
- Regular Updates:Keep your army lists updated with the latest rules and errata. Check for changes in unit points, special rules, and battleplans. This ensures your lists are accurate and compliant with the current game rules.
Tips for Effective Army Building
Building a successful Warhammer Old World army requires more than just collecting your favorite units. Strategic army building involves understanding the strengths and weaknesses of your chosen faction, balancing offensive and defensive capabilities, and planning for various battlefield scenarios. By following these tips, you can maximize your army’s potential and achieve victory on the tabletop.
Balancing Offensive and Defensive Capabilities
A well-rounded army should strike a balance between offensive and defensive capabilities. This means having units that can effectively attack and units that can withstand enemy assaults.
- Offensive Units:These units are designed to deal damage and take the fight to the enemy. Examples include:
- Spearmen: Cheap and numerous, they can overwhelm enemy units with sheer numbers.
- Knights: Fast and powerful, they can break through enemy lines and target key units.
- Archers: Long-range firepower can cripple enemy units before they engage in close combat.
- Defensive Units:These units are built to hold the line and withstand enemy attacks. Examples include:
- Halberdiers: Strong anti-cavalry units that can deter charges and hold the line.
- Great Weapons: Powerful units that can deal significant damage to enemy infantry.
- Siege Engines: Can bombard enemy units and fortifications from a distance.
“A good army should be able to both attack and defend effectively. This means having a mix of units that can both deal damage and withstand enemy attacks.”
Unit Placement and Battlefield Awareness
The way you deploy your units on the battlefield can significantly impact the outcome of a battle. Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of your units and your opponent’s units is crucial.
- Strategic Deployment:Place your units in positions that maximize their strengths and minimize their weaknesses.
- Position archers on elevated terrain to maximize their range and accuracy.
- Deploy your most durable units in the center of your army to hold the line against enemy assaults.
- Utilize flanking maneuvers to outflank enemy units and gain a tactical advantage.
- Battlefield Awareness:Pay attention to the battlefield and adapt your tactics as the battle progresses.
- Respond to enemy movements by shifting your units to counter their threats.
- Utilize terrain to your advantage, using hills and forests for cover and concealment.
- Anticipate enemy attacks and prepare appropriate countermeasures.
Building a Competitive Army

In the Warhammer Old World, building a competitive army requires a deep understanding of the game’s mechanics, the current meta, and effective strategies. This involves carefully selecting units, optimizing their deployment, and mastering tactics to outmaneuver your opponents.
Understanding the Current Meta
The current meta refers to the prevailing strategies and unit combinations that are most successful at any given time. Understanding the meta is crucial for building a competitive army because it helps you identify the most effective units and strategies to counter your opponents.
This involves staying informed about recent tournament results, popular army compositions, and any changes to the rules or errata.
Competitive Army List Examples
Here are some examples of competitive army lists and their strategies:
- Empire:The Empire is known for its versatility and strong ranged firepower. A competitive Empire army often focuses on a large number of Handgunners and Great Cannons, supported by a few units of Knights and a powerful character like a Captain or a Wizard.
The strategy revolves around overwhelming the enemy with ranged firepower and then using cavalry to exploit weaknesses in their lines.
- Bretonnia:Bretonnia is known for its powerful cavalry and strong knights. A competitive Bretonnian army often features a large number of Men-at-Arms, supported by a few units of Knights of the Realm and a powerful character like a Grail Knight or a Peasant Bowmen unit for additional ranged firepower.
The strategy revolves around overwhelming the enemy with a massive cavalry charge and using the Knights to break through enemy lines.
- Orcs & Goblins:Orcs & Goblins are known for their large numbers and aggressive tactics. A competitive Orc & Goblin army often features a large number of Boyz and a few units of Black Orcs, supported by a powerful character like a Big Boss or a Shaman.
The strategy revolves around overwhelming the enemy with a massive horde and using the Black Orcs to break through enemy lines.
The Importance of Painting and Basing

Painting and basing your Warhammer Old World army is more than just aesthetics. It transforms your miniatures from plastic and metal into unique, visually engaging representations of your chosen forces. Beyond visual appeal, painting and basing add depth and immersion to your gaming experience, and can even enhance your tactical decisions.
Aesthetic Benefits
A well-painted and based army is a joy to behold. It brings your miniatures to life, showcasing the details of their design and adding personality to each unit. The vibrant colors, intricate details, and unique basing schemes can transform a simple collection of miniatures into a captivating spectacle.
- Increased Visual Appeal:Painting your army with vibrant colors, adding details like battle damage, and using unique basing schemes transforms your miniatures into a captivating display. This elevates the visual appeal of your army and creates a more immersive experience for you and your opponents.
- Showcase Detail:The intricate details of Warhammer Old World miniatures come to life through careful painting. Highlighting the sculpt’s finer points, such as armor plates, weapons, and facial expressions, adds depth and personality to each miniature.
- Personalized Style:Painting your army allows you to express your creativity and personal style. You can choose colors, techniques, and basing schemes that reflect your preferences and enhance the visual identity of your army.
Tactical Benefits
While painting and basing may seem purely aesthetic, they can also influence your tactical decisions during gameplay.
- Unit Identification:Distinct paint schemes make it easier to quickly identify your units on the battlefield. This is especially important in chaotic battles with multiple armies, preventing confusion and streamlining gameplay.
- Visual Cues:Basing can provide visual cues about unit type, terrain preference, or even special abilities. For example, a unit based on a rocky terrain might be better suited for combat in mountainous areas, while a unit based on a forest floor might be more effective in wooded terrain.
- Immersion and Storytelling:A well-painted and based army can enhance the storytelling aspect of the game. It allows you to create a narrative around your army, its history, and its role in the Warhammer Old World. This immersive experience can make your battles more engaging and memorable.
Painting Techniques
The quality of your painting directly impacts the visual appeal and the effectiveness of your army. Here are some essential tips and techniques for achieving high-quality results:
- Preparation:Proper preparation is crucial. Clean your miniatures thoroughly, removing any mold lines or imperfections. Use a primer to create a smooth, even surface for your paint to adhere to.
- Thinning Paints:Thinning your paints with water or a paint thinner improves flow and prevents paint from building up and creating an uneven finish. Experiment with different thinning ratios to find what works best for your chosen paints.
- Layering:Build up colors in thin layers to achieve depth and smooth transitions. Start with a base coat, then add progressively darker or lighter shades to create highlights and shadows.
- Details and Highlights:Use fine brushes and detailed paints to add intricate details, such as eyes, weapons, and armor trim. Apply highlights to edges and raised areas to create a sense of depth and dimension.
- Wash Techniques:Washes are liquid paints that settle into crevices and recesses, adding depth and shadows to your miniatures. They can also be used to create realistic grime, dirt, and weathering effects.
- Dry Brushing:Dry brushing is a technique that uses a dry brush to apply paint to raised areas, creating a highlighting effect. This is useful for adding texture and highlighting details on armor plates, weapons, and other surfaces.
Basing Techniques
Basing adds a final touch to your army, creating a sense of place and context for your miniatures. Here are some tips for creating effective bases:
- Materials:Choose basing materials that complement the style of your army. Common options include sand, gravel, flock, and static grass.
- Texture and Detail:Create interesting textures and details on your bases to add visual interest and enhance the storytelling aspect of your army. Use modeling materials, such as milliput or green stuff, to create rocks, ruins, or other features.
- Color Scheme:Choose colors for your bases that complement the paint scheme of your army. Consider the terrain type and the overall theme of your army when selecting colors.
- Consistency:Strive for consistency in your basing techniques. Use the same materials and methods for all of your units to create a cohesive look for your army.
The Joy of Army Building

Building an army in Warhammer: The Old World is more than just assembling miniatures; it’s a creative and strategic endeavor that offers a deep sense of satisfaction. It’s a journey of imagination, where you bring your vision to life on the tabletop, crafting a force that reflects your personal style and strategic thinking.
The Creative Aspect of Army Building
Army building in Warhammer: The Old World is an artistic expression. It’s about choosing the units that resonate with you, painting them with your own unique color schemes, and arranging them on the battlefield in a way that reflects your tactical vision.
- Choosing Your Army:The first step is selecting a faction that aligns with your interests. Do you prefer the disciplined might of the Empire, the brutal ferocity of the Orcs, or the arcane power of the High Elves? Each faction offers unique units, rules, and playstyles, allowing you to tailor your army to your preferences.
- Painting Your Army:Painting your miniatures is a rewarding process that transforms them from plastic or metal figures into a personal army. You can choose classic color schemes or create your own unique designs, making each miniature a reflection of your creativity.
- Basing Your Army:The base on which your miniature stands is more than just a platform; it’s an opportunity to add depth and character to your army. You can create realistic terrain, add scenic elements, or even incorporate thematic details that enhance the visual appeal of your army.
The Strategic Aspect of Army Building
Army building in Warhammer: The Old World is a strategic puzzle. You must carefully select units, consider their strengths and weaknesses, and build a cohesive force that can effectively counter your opponent’s army.
- Unit Selection:Choosing the right units for your army is crucial. You must consider their cost, combat effectiveness, and special abilities. Each unit has its own role to play, and a well-balanced army will include a mix of units that can effectively support each other.
- Army Composition:Building a balanced army requires careful consideration of your unit selection. You’ll need to strike a balance between offensive and defensive units, ranged and melee units, and units with different special abilities. A well-balanced army will be able to adapt to different battlefield situations and counter a wide range of opponents.
- Tactical Considerations:Army building involves thinking strategically about how your units will perform on the battlefield. You must consider the terrain, your opponent’s army, and the objectives of the game. By carefully planning your army’s composition and deployment, you can maximize its effectiveness and gain a tactical advantage.
The Rewards of Army Building
The process of building an army in Warhammer: The Old World is a rewarding experience. It combines creativity, strategy, and a touch of artistry, creating a sense of accomplishment that goes beyond simply winning games.
- A Sense of Accomplishment:Building an army from scratch, from selecting the units to painting them and basing them, is a labor of love that instills a deep sense of pride in your creation.
- A Personal Expression:Your army is a reflection of your personality and your strategic thinking. It’s a way to express yourself through the medium of miniature wargaming, showcasing your unique style and creativity.
- A Source of Joy:The joy of building an army comes from the process itself. From the excitement of choosing your units to the satisfaction of painting them, the journey of army building is a rewarding experience that can be enjoyed by players of all skill levels.
Stories and Experiences
“The moment I finished painting my first unit of Empire Greatswords, I felt a surge of pride. They were a testament to my dedication and creativity, and I couldn’t wait to unleash them on the battlefield.”
John, a seasoned Warhammer player
“I love the strategic aspect of army building. Choosing the right units, balancing their strengths and weaknesses, and crafting a force that can adapt to any situation is a challenge that keeps me engaged and entertained.”
Sarah, a competitive Warhammer player
“For me, the joy of army building comes from the community. Sharing ideas, comparing paint schemes, and battling with other players is what makes the hobby so special.”
Michael, a passionate Warhammer player
FAQ Insights: Warhammer Old World Army Builder
What are the different factions in Warhammer: The Old World?
Warhammer: The Old World features a diverse range of factions, including the Empire, Bretonnia, Dwarfs, High Elves, Dark Elves, Orcs & Goblins, Chaos, and more. Each faction has its own unique playstyle, units, and strengths.
How do I choose the right faction for me?
Consider your playstyle and preferences. Do you enjoy a disciplined and tactical approach, or a more aggressive and chaotic one? Research different factions and their units to find the one that best suits your playstyle.
What are some good resources for army building?
Websites like Warhammer Community, Warhammer Age of Sigmar, and various community forums offer valuable information, army lists, and discussions on army building strategies.

Whitney Morris is a renowned author with a passion for military history and strategic analysis. Born in Jakarta, Indonesia, Defense developed a deep fascination for warfare and national defense from a young age. His unwavering interest in military strategy, combined with his natural storytelling ability, has earned him a reputation as an engaging and insightful writer in the field.