If you’re a Warhammer enthusiast, there’s a good chance you’ve dreamt of competing in one of the big tournaments or just attending an event at the iconic Warhammer World. Whether you’re a seasoned player or new to the hobby, diving into the world of Warhammer events can be an exciting and rewarding experience. But with so many tournaments, events, and gatherings throughout the year, it can feel a little overwhelming trying to figure out where to start. So, let me share some insights and tips from my own experiences to help guide you through the process.
Start at the Legendary Warhammer World
When it comes to Warhammer events, there’s no place quite like Warhammer World in Nottingham, UK. It’s the ultimate destination for fans, with events happening all year round. Whether you’re into Warhammer 40,000, Age of Sigmar, or even the Middle-earth Strategy Battle Game, you’ll find plenty to get excited about. And trust me, nothing beats the atmosphere of being at Warhammer World, it’s like being at the heart of the Warhammer universe.
A great place to keep track of all the events at Warhammer World is their official page. They’ve got everything listed there, from weekend tournaments to special one-off events. You can check it out at Warhammer World Events. It’s worth bookmarking if you plan to attend or just want to stay in the loop. Whether you’re attending a Throne of Skulls doubles event or the Warhammer 40,000 Grand Tournament, you’ll find the event calendar loaded with opportunities to jump in.
Don’t Miss Out on the Big Ones
While Warhammer World is great, there are plenty of other events happening across the globe. For example, if you’re looking for a tournament that attracts a massive player base, you’ve got to look at the Goonhammer Open UK or the Warhammer 40,000 Grand Tournament. These events are legendary for a reason, they bring together some of the best players in the world, and the competition is fierce. If you’re looking for something high-stakes and full of energy, these events should definitely be on your radar.
Spikey Bits, a fantastic resource for all things Warhammer, provides an in-depth guide to tournaments around the world, including dates, locations, and tips for getting involved. I’ve found their guide, Warhammer 40K Tournament Guide, to be super useful. They break down everything from entry fees to tournament formats, so whether you’re planning to travel or just need a bit of advice on how to prepare, it’s a great place to start.
See events listings at SpikeyBits
Tips for Attending and Competing
Now, you might be thinking, “Okay, I’m in. What do I need to know?” Well, here are a few things that might help you along the way.
1. Decide What You Want: Play for Fun or for Glory
One of the best pieces of advice I can give is to decide what you want out of the tournament experience. Are you aiming for a top placement, or are you there to have fun, showcase your hobby, and just enjoy the day?
Some players go into these events with a competitive mindset, carefully crafting their army list based on the current meta and pouring over strategies to ensure every decision is about maximising their chances of winning. If this is you, that’s great, there’s nothing wrong with wanting to crush it and prove your skills!
However, not everyone plays with the sole goal of winning. A lot of players love the thematic side of Warhammer and bring armies they’re personally passionate about, even if they know they’re not likely to win the whole tournament. Maybe they’ve spent months painting up a beautifully converted force that tells a story, or perhaps they’re playing with their favourite faction, regardless of how it fares in the meta.
And here’s the thing, this approach can be just as rewarding, if not more so. It’s not always about grinding out a victory; sometimes it’s about the joy of seeing your army come to life on the battlefield and the fun of watching your army’s narrative unfold. These players often find that the fun of the game is the real victory, especially when they’re surrounded by others who are just as passionate about the hobby.
2. Get to Know the Meta
Every tournament has its own meta, strategies, army compositions, and play-styles that dominate the scene. It’s crucial to do some research on what’s performing well before entering. Sure, playing your favourite army is always fun, but being aware of what’s popular at a particular time can give you an edge.
If you’re the type who prefers to play a themed army, even if it’s not built for the win, don’t worry about keeping up with the meta. There’s plenty of space in the Warhammer community for players who want to have a good time first and foremost. Decide what matters to you, and the rest will follow, whether that’s winning or enjoying the creative and social side of the hobby. It’s your game, after all!
3. Bring Your A-Game (and Your Army)
Tournaments can be a grueling test of your skills, but also your patience and preparation. Make sure your army is fully painted (if required), and remember that some events have strict rules about what’s acceptable in terms of model standards and army lists. It’s always a good idea to check the event’s guidelines beforehand so there are no last-minute surprises.
4. Don’t Stress the Placement
While it’s easy to get caught up in trying to win, remember that these events are also about the experience. Sure, you might be gunning for a top spot, but the real magic often lies in the camaraderie, the shared love for the game, and the people you meet along the way. Even if you don’t place as high as you hoped, there’s always next time and plenty of fun to be had in the process.
5. The Community Is Key
One of the most valuable aspects of attending Warhammer events is the community. You’ll meet players from all walks of life, and each event brings together a mix of veterans and newcomers. Don’t be afraid to chat with people, swap strategies, or just have a laugh between rounds. You’d be amazed at how many lifelong friendships I’ve made just by chatting with people at tournaments. The Warhammer scene is full of passionate, like-minded individuals, and it’s a great way to learn and grow as a player.
The Bottom Line
Warhammer events and tournaments are one of the best ways to immerse yourself in the hobby. Whether you’re visiting Warhammer World or taking on a major global event, there’s something for everyone. The key is to get involved, don’t let the idea of competing hold you back. It’s not just about winning; it’s about the thrill of the game, the community, and sharing your love for the hobby. So, check out Warhammer World’s event listings, keep Spikey Bits’ guide handy, and get yourself out there!
At the end of the day, it’s all about having fun and connecting with others who share your passion. So, grab your models, brush up on your strategies, and dive into the exciting world of Warhammer events, you won’t regret it.
