Following the triumphant success of its Warhammer trilogy, Creative Assembly has embarked on an exciting new venture: a game set in the Warhammer 40,000 universe. While the announcement has sparked a wave of anticipation, the community is already buzzing with speculation about what this new title might entail. To channel our excitement, a group of dedicated Warhammer enthusiasts has come together to compile a wishlist of features they hope to see in this ambitious project.
Make it meaningfully huge
Fraser Brown, Online Editor: In an era where many games lean towards minimalism, the vastness of the Warhammer 40k universe demands a different approach. The setting is characterized by sprawling empires, colossal hive cities, and titanic warriors, all of which should be reflected in the gameplay. Total War games are known for their grand scale, but to truly capture the essence of the 41st millennium, Creative Assembly must ensure that this scale is not merely cosmetic. The galaxy’s enormity should introduce intricate logistical challenges and strategic depth, allowing players to grapple with the vastness of their surroundings.
Sean Martin, Senior Guides Writer: The Warhammer 40k universe is a canvas of infinite possibilities. Unlike its fantasy counterpart, which is more defined, 40k offers a plethora of settings and narratives. The challenge lies in selecting which iconic locations to include while maintaining a balance that keeps the gameplay engaging. The inclusion of beloved locales, such as the Sabbat Worlds or the Kaurava system, could enrich the experience, but it’s crucial to ensure that these elements enhance rather than detract from the core gameplay.
Let me paint
Fraser Brown: While previous Warhammer games have acknowledged their tabletop roots, there’s room for a more immersive customization experience. Instead of a single customizable leader, I envision a robust system that allows players to personalize their units extensively. From colors and emblems to gear and accessories, this feature could mirror the rich customization options available in the tabletop game, enabling players to create unique armies that reflect their individual styles.
Jody Macgregor, Weekend/AU Editor: The potential for customization extends beyond mere aesthetics. Diverse unit appearances can enhance immersion, allowing players to feel a deeper connection to their armies. Whether it’s flashy color schemes for ork freebooters or unique hairstyles for aeldari harlequins, the ability to tailor units would add a layer of individuality to the gameplay.
Give us some wild endgame scenarios
Sean Martin: The allure of endgame scenarios has always captivated Total War players. The potential for dramatic events—such as a warp storm splitting the map or a tyranid hive fleet invading—could provide thrilling twists to the gameplay. While the number of factions at launch may limit these scenarios, the hope is that Creative Assembly will introduce engaging crises that keep players on their toes.
Fraser Brown: The Warhammer 40k universe is rife with chaos and unpredictability, setting a high bar for the types of endgame scenarios we can expect. The stakes are enormous, with entire planets falling under the sway of alien cults or the Imperium resorting to annihilation to eliminate threats. The game must deliver on this promise of high-stakes warfare.
Terrain should matter
Jody Macgregor: In a 40k setting, the terrain should play a pivotal role in strategy. Unlike the traditional ranks and flanks of Warhammer Fantasy, I envision mobile squads navigating bombed-out cities and utilizing cover effectively. A robust pathfinding system would enhance gameplay, allowing units to maneuver through urban environments and engage in tactical skirmishes.
Sean Martin: The implementation of a cover system would be a welcome addition, drawing inspiration from previous titles that successfully integrated area-based cover mechanics. The hope is that city maps will allow for strategic positioning, reflecting the gritty urban warfare that defines much of 40k combat.
Battlefleet warfare is important
Sean Martin: Unlike its fantasy counterpart, the inclusion of naval combat in a 40k game is essential. Space battles are integral to the lore, with epic conflicts unfolding above planets. The game must capture the essence of these battles, whether through orbital bombardments or close-quarters shipboard combat. The potential for campaign events, such as space hulks or Blackstone Fortresses, could add layers of excitement to the gameplay.
Fraser Brown: While Creative Assembly’s previous attempts at naval combat have faced criticism, the foundation laid by existing systems like Battlefleet Gothic offers a promising starting point. As long as the execution surpasses previous efforts, players can look forward to an engaging space combat experience.
Make it weird
Robin Valentine, Senior Editor: Many Warhammer 40,000 games tend to stick to familiar narratives, but the universe is rich with eccentricities that deserve exploration. A Total War game provides the perfect opportunity to embrace the bizarre elements of the setting, from quirky tech-priests to the absurdity of Darktide’s dystopia. The game should delve into the perspectives of non-human factions, showcasing the galaxy’s diversity and strangeness.
Fraser Brown: Indeed, the charm of Warhammer lies in its ability to balance the serious with the absurd. The game should not shy away from introducing obscure elements, allowing players to recruit unique allies and experience the galaxy’s quirks firsthand.
Gimme those massive units
Sean Martin: In a universe as expansive as 40k, the presence of colossal units is a must. The iconic Titans, with their immense scale and intricate lore, should play a significant role in battles. The gameplay should allow players to deploy massive units that can turn the tide of war, enhancing the epic nature of the conflicts.
Fraser Brown: The potential for large-scale units is immense, and while balance is crucial, the inclusion of smaller Titans and other massive units would elevate the gameplay experience. The anticipation for what Creative Assembly will deliver in this regard is palpable.
