When it comes to the sprawling fantasy landscape of Warhammer's Old World, few factions capture the imagination quite like The Empire. A cornerstone of this rich universe, The Empire is a realm of men holding steadfast against chaos, monsters, and the perils of a dark and treacherous world. If you’re a fan of Warhammer or curious about delving into its Old World lore, here’s a quick dive into who The Empire are, what makes them unique, and why they’re an iconic part of this beloved universe.
Who Are The Empire?
The Empire is the largest and most powerful nation of men in the Old World, ruled by a succession of Emperors from its capital, Altdorf. Founded by Sigmar Heldenhammer, a warrior-king who united the warring tribes of men, The Empire is a beacon of hope in an otherwise grim setting. Sigmar's deeds were so legendary that he was later deified, with the Empire’s entire religion revolving around his worship.
Its people are diverse, with each province showcasing unique characteristics, from the engineering marvels of Nuln to the religious fervor of Middenland. However, the unity of The Empire is often tenuous, held together by a shared sense of purpose and the unrelenting threat of Chaos looming to the north.
What Makes The Empire Unique?
The Empire combines medieval and Renaissance aesthetics with elements of fantasy and steampunk. Its armies are iconic, featuring formations of pike-and-shot infantry, knights on horseback, and fantastical war machines like steam tanks and volley guns.
Magic also plays a key role in The Empire’s defense, with Colleges of Magic training wizards to wield powerful spells in battle. They stand shoulder-to-shoulder with priests of Sigmar and Witch Hunters, who root out heresy and corruption. This mix of technological innovation, divine faith, and military discipline gives The Empire its distinctive flavor in Warhammer’s grimdark setting.
Why Is The Empire Important?
The Empire represents the resilience of humanity in the Warhammer Old World. Its people are constantly under threat from Chaos invasions, marauding Orcs, the undead legions of the Vampire Counts, and the scheming Skaven. Despite this, The Empire endures, proving that humanity’s indomitable spirit can prevail against even the darkest odds.
For players and collectors, The Empire offers an incredible range of options. From its varied armies and unique characters to its role in major campaigns and events in the Old World, The Empire is the faction for those who love versatility, strategy, and a touch of heroism amidst the bleakness.
Why The Empire Should Be Your Next Faction
Whether you’re drawn to their rich lore, stunning models, or tactical flexibility on the tabletop, The Empire is a must-explore faction for any Warhammer enthusiast. Their story is one of survival, ingenuity, and faith, making them relatable and inspiring for fans of all backgrounds. Plus, with the return of Warhammer: The Old World on the horizon, there's no better time to immerse yourself in The Empire’s lore and bring its armies to life.
Ready to serve Sigmar and defend the Old World? Click here to discover a range of The Empire miniatures in our Faction of the Month sale. Dive into the lore, build your army, and march to war in the name of humanity's greatest hope!
