How long does a game of Warhammer 40k last

A brief introduction to Warhammer 40k

Warhammer 40,000, affectionately known as Warhammer 40k, or simply 40k, is a miniatures wargame produced by Games Workshop. Warhammer 40k is currently the most famous miniatures wargame globally. Warhammer 40k launched in 1987 and is now on the 10th edition of the game (released in 2023).

Warhammer 40k takes place against a backdrop of a distant grimdark future, where players build their armies and battle until just one of them stands victorious.

For those new to this vast universe, there is a wealth of information to help you get started, including starter sets, guides on how to paint your models, how-to-play guides, and a thriving community.

What factors can affect how long a game takes to play?

There are a whole host of factors that can affect estimating the rough length of a game, including the following:

• The size of a game of Warhammer 40k is determined by the number of points used to build your army, with options on average ranging from 500-2000 points, the more points, the longer the game.
• The experience of the players will similarly affect the length of gameplay. Generally, beginners will have a slower pace of play and need more time to take their turns. Experienced players will have initial gameplays in mind and play with more speed and confidence. Those less familiar with the game may also have to reference the rules more often than highly experienced players.
• The style in which players build their armies will also affect the length of play, with some army lists being overpowered and crushing their foes with relative ease. More evenly matched army lists can lead to more extended gameplay.
• The reason for playing the game will have an impact on the length of gameplay, some people enjoy a highly competitive play style and will play Warhammer 40k more aggressively, and their sole focus is on building their army to defeat the opposing army as quickly as possible.  Other players prefer to build a more thematic army and tell a story during their games, while also crushing the other player.

So, how long could a game of Warhammer 40k last?

If you are considering playing Warhammer 40k for the first time, starting with a 500-point army is advisable.  Visiting a local gaming hall and playing friendly games with more seasoned gamers is also worthwhile. Gaming centers can also advise on which Warhammer 40k armies best suit your tastes and playing style(s).

Table of playing times for beginners

The following table aims to provide a guide for beginner players, taking into account being new to the game, frequent rule checking, and a more cautious pace of play. Depending on the scale of the game, more experienced players can likely reduce the total estimates by 1-2 hours.

How to speed up a game of Warhammer 40k

• Having your army lists planned before you arrive to play your game will reduce set-up time
• Developing a good understanding of how your army works, along with the strengths and weaknesses of each unit within your army will help speed up decision-making, and increase your chance of victory
• Use timers to ensure the game progresses steadily and help players avoid analysis paralysis.
• Most people play Warhammer 40k to meet with friends, so times can be longer due to people chatting and stopping for breaks.  On the other hand, competitive matches often result in shorter playtimes, due to a more concentrated approach to gameplay.