Warhammer 40,000: The Unadulterated Joy of Collecting Anything but Space Marines

Warhammer 40,000 is a tabletop miniature wargame by Games Workshop that has captured the imaginations of countless hobbyists and gamers around the world. I don’t think you’d be on this website if you were not already aware of this game. Within this vast universe of ultra-dystopian science fiction, one faction reigns supreme in terms of popularity: the Space Marines of the Adeptus Astartes. These superhuman warriors have always been the poster boys of Warhammer 40,000, attracting legions of fans and collectors and featuring in the starter sets for every edition of the game. However, I reckon you should consider exploring the myriad of other factions and armies available. Collecting anything but Space Marines can offer a refreshing and rewarding experience within the Warhammer 40,000 hobby… and this post should be taken in the humour in which it was intended…

Warhammer 40,000 is a tabletop wargame that takes place in a grim and dark future where war is constant and humanity is fighting for survival. It’s a universe filled with intricate (if sometimes self-contradictory) lore, impressive miniatures, and battles that would make even the most battle-hardened general quake in their boots.

When it comes to Warhammer 40,000, one faction that immediately comes to mind is the Space Marines. These superhuman warriors are the poster boys of the game and have garnered quite a massive fanbase. They are genetically enhanced super soldiers clad in power armor, armed with powerful weapons, and ready to kick some alien butt. They have become the face of the game and are adored by many players.

Everyone has a Space Marines army. Hell, sometimes it feels like you can’t throw a (hero) rock without hitting a Space Marine player. If I did hit you with my Official NoRerolls Test Rock™, then I can only apologise and let you know that this accidental act of violence was purely for science. If you’re looking to stand out from the crowd and be a bit more unique in your hobby endeavors, collecting Space Marines might not be the bestest of choices.

I suppose that one of the issues is that the Space Marines, with the best will in the world (in several, really) can often feel a bit… samey. Sure, they come in different colors and have various chapters, but at the end of the day, they are all still superhuman warriors in power armor. If you’re someone who loves variety and wants your armies to have a distinct and diverse aesthetic, perhaps it’s best to look at another shelf?

Fortunately, Warhammer 40,000 is not all about the Space Marines. One of the greatest joys of this hobby is the incredible variety of factions and armies available. From the ancient and mysterious Eldar to the hulking forces of the Orks or the insidious forces of the Genestealer Cults, there is a whole galaxy’s worth of factions to choose from. And each one brings its own unique playstyle and aesthetic to the tabletop.

What makes Warhammer 40,000 truly special to many fans is the rich lore and background stories that accompany each faction. Whether you’re fascinated by the noble and enigmatic nature of the Aeldari (the fancy modern name for the Eldar), or drawn to the gritty and brutal existence of the Astra Militarum, there’s a faction out there that will capture your imagination. Exploring the unique narratives behind each faction adds depth and flavor to your hobby experience.

By collecting different armies and factions, you open up a whole world of gameplay options and strategies. Each faction has its own strengths, weaknesses, and special abilities, allowing you to tailor your playstyle to match your preferred tactics. This variety adds depth to the game and keeps things fresh, preventing the risk of falling into a monotonous routine.

Collecting non-Space Marine armies allows you to embrace different playstyles and experiment with unique tactics. Want to overwhelm your opponents with a horde of Tyranids? Or maybe you prefer the subtle arts of the Aeldari (nah, still doesn’t feel right), striking from the shadows with deadly precision. The possibilities are endless, and the satisfaction of mastering different armies is immeasurable.

So, while Space Marines may have their charm and appeal, don’t limit yourself to just one faction in the vast universe of Warhammer 40,000. Embrace the variety, explore the lore, and find a faction that truly speaks to your soul. Who knows, you might just discover a newfound appreciation for the lesser-known factions and forge your own path in this war-torn universe.

Just picture it, fam; you’ve been itching to dive into the Warhammer 40,000 universe and start collecting an army. You rock up at your local games workshop to see half a dozen Space Marine armies splayed across the tables. Friend, before you grab that trusty box of Space Marines, stay your bolter for a moment. While the Space Marines are undoubtedly iconic, there is a whole galaxy (and several store shelves) of diverse armies waiting to be explored. Branch out! 

Now, I’m aware that Space Marines come in a range of colours, but does each colour scheme really needs its own set of rules? I’d argue not. With non-Space Marine armies, you have the freedom to create unique and personalised armies that truly reflect your vision. From choosing alternative color schemes for your Ork mobs to customising the appearance and backstory of your Drukhari (another nu-Eldar word that makes me shiver) Kabal, the possibilities for customisation are endless. Let your imagination run wild and set your army apart from the sea of generic Spess Mareens.

Collecting non-Space Marine armies also allows you to flex your artistic muscles and showcase your painting skills. From the vibrant and intricate patterns of the Harlequin’s diamond suits to the clean lines of Tau artillery, each faction offers its own range of captivating aesthetics. Stand out from the crowd with a beautifully painted army that tells a story and captures the essence of your chosen faction. 

By venturing beyond the realm of Space Marines, you can discover hidden gems among the many factions of Warhammer 40,000. Perhaps you’ll find a soft spot for the enigmatic Genestealer Cults, the relentless T’au Empire, or the cybernetic forces of the Adeptus Mechanicus. By collecting these lesser-known armies, you can become a trendsetter and a real advocate for your army, showing others the unique strengths and captivating lore of these oft-underappreciated factions.

Collecting non-Space Marine armies not only lets you uncover hidden gems but also allows you to delve into untold stories and lore. Each faction has its own rich background and captivating narrative that rarely take centre stage in the annals (careful…) of the 41st millennium. These tales can transport you to new corners of the Warhammer 40,000 universe. 

So there you have it, intrepid collector. While Space Marines may be the poster boys of Warhammer 40,000, there’s a whole galaxy of diverse armies waiting to be discovered. Diversify your gameplay experience, unleash your creative potential, and explore the hidden treasures of lesser-known factions. Embrace the beauty and diversity of the Warhammer 40,000 universe, and let your army collection reflect the vastness of this epic tabletop game. After all, why settle for just one flavor of ice cream when you can have the whole galaxy of flavors at your disposal? It’s time to venture beyond the Space Marines and embark on an adventure like no other. Well, few others.