Thoughts on #NewEditionNewArmy

The launch of a new edition of Warhammer 40,000 is imminent. Already, people are staring lovingly at a new starter set, reappraising their armies, and arguing passionately over the minutiae of a ruleset they have not even tried. Glorious!

With a new edition comes the temptation to embark on a brand-new army; not that I tend to need much convincing… With that in mind, let’s delve into the exhilarating world of #NewEditionNewArmy, exploring both the enticing benefits and the cautionary risks that await those brave enough to embrace the change!

The Sunny Side of #NewEditionNewArmy

With a new edition comes a fresh start for everyone. Veteran players and newcomers alike are thrown into uncharted territory, leveling the playing field and creating a sense of excitement and discovery. You have the opportunity to explore unexplored strategies, experiment with different unit combinations, and compete on equal footing with other enthusiasts.

Starting a new army on that level footing allows you to become a master (or at least a semi-competent) of the meta. As the edition evolves, new units and factions rise in power while others may falter. By starting anew, you can adapt to the shifting landscape, study the strengths and weaknesses of different armies, and position yourself as an expert in the emerging meta. This knowledge will not only enhance your own gameplay but also make you a valuable advisor to fellow hobbyists.

The most important factor for me, however, is in the hobby. Starting a new army is like breathing new life into your hobby experience. The process of researching, collecting, assembling, and painting a fresh force rekindles the passion and renews the joy of the hobby. Each new model becomes a blank canvas for your creative expression, allowing you to refine your painting skills and bring your unique vision to life.

The Dangers of #NewEditionNewArmy

Financial ruination is at the forefront of my concerns. Starting a new army can be financially demanding. The cost of purchasing new models, rulebooks, and accessories adds up quickly. It’s crucial to establish a budget and prioritise your purchases wisely. Consider starting with a smaller force or gradually expanding it over time to manage your expenses effectively.

Once you’re over the financial hurdles, there’s a lot to learn. A new edition brings changes to rules, unit abilities, and army compositions. As a new army owner, you’ll need to invest time in studying the rules, understanding how your units interact, and adapting your strategies accordingly. Be prepared for a learning curve and embrace the opportunity to grow as a player.

In a new edition, faction balance may be in flux as the developers fine-tune the game’s mechanics. Your chosen army may experience fluctuations in power level and effectiveness throughout the edition’s lifespan. We’ve all been there. It’s important to approach these changes with an open mind, or at least a level head, and adapt your tactics to maintain a competitive edge.

Finally, there’s another risk factor that I’ve seen a lot of in the past couple of years; model availability. Starting a new army may come with challenges in terms of model availability and community support. Newly released models might experience shortages or delays, as might any model that, though a rules update, becomes the new hotness. I really struggled to get Pusgoyle Blightlords for a good while, and I know people are finding it impossible to get their hands on a Loonshrine.

My Plans

Ultimately, the decision to start a new army in a new edition of Warhammer 40K is an exciting and personal one. I’ll be going for it, myself. I’ve been speaking for quite some time about doing a Genestealer Cults army, and now seems a good time. I’ve got the first couple of models finished, too:

I suppose I did the same for the previous edition of 40K with my Necrons. It’s exciting! I’m a tad daunted by this being a somewhat hordey army, but hey ho. Let’s see where this goes, eh?