Getting Started With Warhammer 40000 And Black Templars A Comprehensive Guide

Hey guys! So, you're thinking about diving into the awesome world of Warhammer 40,000 and the Black Templars have caught your eye? Excellent choice! They're a super cool chapter with a rich history, awesome lore, and a fantastic aesthetic. But getting started with a tabletop game like Warhammer can feel a bit daunting, so let's break it down and get you crusading in no time!

Understanding the Allure of Warhammer 40,000 and the Black Templars

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of building and painting miniatures, let's talk about what makes Warhammer 40,000 so captivating, and why the Black Templars are such a popular choice. Warhammer 40,000 is more than just a game; it's a sprawling universe brimming with grimdark lore, epic battles, and compelling characters. It's a setting where humanity is constantly at war, battling against terrifying aliens, heretical cults, and the very forces of Chaos. This rich backdrop provides endless opportunities for storytelling and immersion. The Black Templars, in particular, embody the zealous and relentless nature of this universe. These guys are the ultimate crusaders, forever on the offensive, purging heresy with fire and sword. They're a chapter of Space Marines known for their unwavering faith in the Emperor, their close-quarters combat prowess, and their distinctive black armor adorned with striking white and red details. The Black Templars' aesthetic is a big draw for many players. Their gothic armor, adorned with chains, purity seals, and other religious iconography, screams medieval knights in space. They're a visually stunning army on the tabletop, and painting them can be a rewarding experience in itself. But beyond the aesthetics, the Black Templars have a unique playstyle that appeals to aggressive players. They excel in melee combat, charging headfirst into the enemy lines, and tearing them apart with chainswords and power fists. If you like the idea of a relentless, in-your-face army, then the Black Templars might be the perfect fit for you. Furthermore, the Black Templars have a deep and fascinating lore. They were founded during the Second Founding, a major event in Space Marine history, and they inherited the aggressive doctrines of their Primarch, Rogal Dorn. They are organized into Crusades, fleets of ships that constantly roam the galaxy, seeking out enemies to vanquish. This crusading nature gives the Black Templars a unique flavor, separating them from other Space Marine chapters. Their fanatical devotion to the Emperor and their unwavering commitment to their oaths make them both inspiring and terrifying. When you choose the Black Templars, you're not just picking an army; you're joining a brotherhood of warriors who have been fighting the Long War for millennia. You're becoming part of a legacy of courage, faith, and relentless aggression. This connection to the lore is a key part of the Warhammer 40,000 experience for many players. It adds depth and meaning to their games, transforming each battle into a chapter in the ongoing saga of the Imperium of Man.

Essential Steps to Embark on Your Black Templars Crusade

Okay, so you're hooked on the Black Templars. Now what? Let's break down the essential steps to get you started on your crusade. This might seem like a lot, but don't worry, we'll take it one step at a time, and you'll be leading your Black Templars to victory before you know it. First, you'll need to familiarize yourself with the Warhammer 40,000 rules. Warhammer 40,000 is a complex game with a lot of rules, but don't let that intimidate you. The core rules are actually quite straightforward, and you can learn them gradually as you play. The best place to start is with the Warhammer 40,000 Core Book. This book contains all the fundamental rules of the game, as well as background lore and stunning artwork. You can also find simplified rulesets and tutorials online, which can be a great way to get a feel for the game before diving into the full rulebook. Don't try to memorize every rule right away; focus on the basics of movement, shooting, and melee combat. Once you understand these core mechanics, you can gradually learn the more advanced rules as you need them. There are also numerous online resources and communities that can help you with any rules questions you might have. The Warhammer 40,000 community is generally very welcoming to new players, so don't be afraid to ask for help. Next, gather your Black Templars army. This is where the fun really begins! You'll need to purchase miniatures to represent your Black Templars warriors. The best way to start is with a Start Collecting! Black Templars box. This box contains a selection of miniatures that form a small, playable army, and it's a great value for money. It typically includes a character model (like a Chaplain or a Captain), a squad of infantry (like Tactical Marines or Intercessors), and a heavier unit (like a Dreadnought or a Crusader Squad). Once you have your Start Collecting! box, you can start expanding your army with other units that appeal to you. The Black Templars Codex is an essential resource for building your army. This book contains detailed information about all the units available to the Black Templars, as well as their rules, abilities, and points costs. It also includes background lore and artwork, providing inspiration for your army's theme and color scheme. When choosing units for your army, consider your playstyle and the kind of force you want to build. Do you want a melee-focused army that charges into the enemy lines? Or a more balanced force that can fight at range as well? The Black Templars have a variety of units to choose from, so you can tailor your army to your preferences. After gathering the army, you have to assemble and paint your miniatures. This is a crucial part of the Warhammer 40,000 hobby. Assembling and painting your miniatures is a rewarding and creative process. It allows you to personalize your army and bring your vision to life. You'll need some basic tools and supplies, such as plastic glue, clippers, hobby knives, and paints. There are many tutorials online that can guide you through the assembly and painting process. Don't be intimidated if you've never painted miniatures before; it's a skill that you can learn with practice. Start with simple techniques and gradually try more advanced methods as you gain confidence. The Black Templars have a distinctive black and white color scheme, which can be challenging to paint well. However, there are many different ways to approach painting Black Templars, and you can find plenty of inspiration online. Some painters prefer a clean, crisp look, while others prefer a more weathered and battle-worn appearance. Ultimately, the best way to paint your miniatures is the way that you enjoy the most. Also, prepare for your first battles. Once you've assembled and painted your miniatures, it's time to hit the tabletop! Find a local gaming store or club where you can play against other players. Playing against experienced opponents is the best way to learn the game and improve your skills. Start with small games to get a feel for the rules and your army's capabilities. As you gain experience, you can gradually increase the size and complexity of your games. Don't be afraid to make mistakes; everyone makes them when they're learning. The most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the experience. The Warhammer 40,000 community is generally very supportive, and you'll find plenty of players who are willing to help you learn the ropes. Finally, immerse yourself in the Warhammer 40,000 universe. Warhammer 40,000 is more than just a game; it's a rich and immersive universe with a vast amount of lore. Reading the novels, short stories, and background books can greatly enhance your enjoyment of the hobby. You'll gain a deeper understanding of the setting, the characters, and the events that shape the galaxy. This knowledge will not only make your games more meaningful but also inspire your painting and hobby projects. There are countless Warhammer 40,000 books available, covering a wide range of topics and factions. You can delve into the history of the Black Templars, learn about their famous crusades, and discover the heroes and villains who have shaped their destiny. Immersing yourself in the lore will make you feel more connected to your army and the universe in which they fight. So, get reading and get ready to be transported to the grim darkness of the far future!

Diving Deeper: Black Templars Units and Army Building Tips

Let's delve a bit deeper into the specifics of building a Black Templars army. Knowing your units and how they synergize is key to success on the battlefield. The Black Templars have access to a wide range of units, from basic Tactical Marines to powerful Dreadnoughts and specialized characters. Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each unit will help you create a well-rounded and effective force. The core of most Black Templars armies is the Crusader Squad. These squads are larger than standard Space Marine squads, reflecting the Black Templars' focus on aggressive assaults. Crusader Squads can be equipped with a variety of weapons, making them versatile and adaptable to different battlefield roles. They can also include Initiates, veteran warriors who serve as squad leaders, and Neophytes, newly inducted recruits who are eager to prove their worth. This mix of experience and zeal makes Crusader Squads a powerful force on the tabletop. Another key unit for Black Templars armies is the Intercessor Squad. Intercessors are equipped with bolt rifles, which have a longer range and higher accuracy than standard bolters. They are excellent at holding objectives and providing fire support for advancing Crusader Squads. Intercessors are also relatively durable, making them a resilient backbone for your army. In addition to infantry, the Black Templars also have access to a variety of vehicles, including Dreadnoughts, Land Raiders, and Rhinos. Dreadnoughts are heavily armored walkers that pack a serious punch. They are excellent at destroying enemy armor and providing fire support. Land Raiders are heavily armored transports that can carry a squad of Marines into the heart of the enemy lines. Rhinos are lighter transports that are ideal for moving infantry quickly across the battlefield. The Black Templars also have a number of unique characters who can lead your army. These characters have special abilities and wargear that can significantly enhance the effectiveness of your units. For example, the High Marshal Helbrecht is a powerful leader who can inspire his troops to greater feats of valor. The Emperor's Champion is a dedicated duelist who excels in close combat. And the Chaplain Grimaldus is a fervent preacher who can bolster the faith of his warriors. When building your Black Templars army, it's important to consider the synergy between your units. Choose units that complement each other's strengths and cover each other's weaknesses. For example, you might combine Crusader Squads with Intercessor Squads to create a balanced force that can fight both in close combat and at range. You might also include a Dreadnought to provide fire support and a Land Raider to transport your Crusader Squads into the enemy lines. It's also important to consider your army's overall strategy. Do you want to build an aggressive army that charges headfirst into the enemy lines? Or a more defensive army that focuses on holding objectives and weathering enemy attacks? The Black Templars can be played in a variety of ways, so you can tailor your army to your preferred playstyle. The Black Templars are known for their aggressive playstyle, so many players choose to build armies that focus on close combat. This can involve using units like Assault Intercessors, who are equipped with chainswords and bolt pistols, or Terminators, who are heavily armored and armed with powerful weapons. However, it's also possible to build a more balanced Black Templars army that can fight at range as well. This might involve using units like Hellblasters, who are armed with plasma incinerators, or Eliminators, who are skilled snipers. Ultimately, the best way to build a Black Templars army is to experiment and see what works best for you. Try out different units and strategies and find a combination that suits your playstyle. And don't be afraid to ask for advice from other Black Templars players. The Warhammer 40,000 community is generally very helpful and welcoming, and you'll find plenty of people who are willing to share their knowledge and experience.

Mastering the Crusade: Advanced Tactics and Strategies for Black Templars

Now that you've got the basics down, let's talk about some advanced tactics and strategies for playing Black Templars. These tips will help you take your game to the next level and crush your opponents on the battlefield. One of the key strengths of the Black Templars is their ability to fight in close combat. They have a number of units that excel in melee, and their Chapter Tactics and Stratagems further enhance their close-quarters prowess. To maximize this strength, you'll need to be aggressive and proactive. Don't be afraid to charge into the enemy lines and engage them in melee. Use your fast-moving units, such as Assault Intercessors and Inceptors, to quickly close the distance and tie up enemy units. And use your durable units, such as Terminators and Dreadnoughts, to soak up enemy fire and protect your vulnerable units. Another important tactic for Black Templars is to use terrain to your advantage. Terrain can provide cover from enemy fire, create bottlenecks that funnel enemy units into kill zones, and provide flanking routes for your own units. Learn to identify and exploit terrain features to maximize your army's effectiveness. For example, you can use buildings and walls to provide cover for your advancing units, or you can use ruins to create chokepoints that slow down enemy attacks. You can also use terrain to set up ambushes and traps for your opponents. The Black Templars also have a number of unique Stratagems that can give you an edge in battle. Stratagems are special abilities that you can use during the game by spending Command Points. Some Black Templars Stratagems enhance their close combat abilities, while others provide defensive bonuses or allow you to manipulate the battlefield. For example, the Accept Any Challenge, No Matter the Odds Stratagem allows a Black Templars unit to re-roll hit rolls in melee, making them even more deadly in close combat. The Vows of the Initiate Stratagem allows a Black Templars unit to gain a 5+ invulnerable save against ranged attacks, making them more resilient to enemy fire. And the Litany of Divine Protection Stratagem allows a Chaplain to grant a unit a 5+ invulnerable save against all attacks, making them incredibly durable. When using Stratagems, it's important to choose the right Stratagem for the situation. Don't waste Command Points on Stratagems that won't have a significant impact on the game. And don't be afraid to save your Command Points for key moments in the battle. In addition to their close combat abilities and Stratagems, the Black Templars also have access to a number of powerful psychic powers. Psychic powers can be used to buff your own units, debuff enemy units, or deal damage directly to the enemy. The Black Templars have access to the Litanies of Battle, which are prayers to the Emperor that provide a variety of benefits. For example, the Litany of Religious Zeal allows a Black Templars unit to advance and charge in the same turn, making them even more mobile. The Litany of Hate allows a Black Templars unit to re-roll wound rolls in melee, making them even more deadly in close combat. And the Litany of the War-Called allows a Chaplain to inspire his troops to greater acts of bravery. When using Litanies of Battle, it's important to choose the right Litany for the situation. Don't waste your prayers on Litanies that won't have a significant impact on the game. And don't be afraid to use your Litanies to support your overall strategy. Finally, remember to adapt your tactics to your opponent's army. Every army has its own strengths and weaknesses, and you'll need to adjust your strategy accordingly. For example, if you're facing an army that is heavily focused on shooting, you'll need to find ways to close the distance and engage them in melee. And if you're facing an army that is heavily focused on close combat, you'll need to find ways to keep them at range and whittle them down with firepower. By mastering these advanced tactics and strategies, you'll be well on your way to becoming a formidable Black Templars commander. So, get out there, lead your crusaders to victory, and purge the galaxy of heresy!

Conclusion: Embracing the Eternal Crusade with the Black Templars

So, there you have it! Getting started with Warhammer 40,000 and the Black Templars is an exciting journey filled with lore, strategy, and creativity. From understanding the grimdark universe to assembling and painting your miniatures, and finally, leading your forces on the battlefield, there's a ton to enjoy. The Black Templars, with their unwavering faith, relentless aggression, and striking aesthetic, are a fantastic choice for any aspiring Warhammer 40,000 player. Remember, the key is to take it one step at a time, learn the rules gradually, and most importantly, have fun! Embrace the challenge of building and painting your army, immerse yourself in the rich lore of the Warhammer 40,000 universe, and enjoy the camaraderie of the gaming community. The Black Templars are more than just an army; they're a brotherhood of warriors dedicated to the Emperor's will. By choosing them, you're joining a legacy of courage, faith, and eternal crusade. So, grab your chainsword, raise your bolter, and prepare to purge the heretic! The galaxy awaits your righteous fury.

FAQ: Common Questions for Aspiring Black Templars Crusaders

To further assist you on your journey, let's address some frequently asked questions about getting started with Warhammer 40,000 and the Black Templars:

• What's the best way to learn the Warhammer 40,000 rules? Start with the Warhammer 40,000 Core Book and focus on the basic rules first. Online tutorials and simplified rulesets can also be helpful. Play small games to get a feel for the mechanics, and don't be afraid to ask for help from experienced players.
• What should I buy to start a Black Templars army? The Start Collecting! Black Templars box is an excellent starting point. It provides a selection of miniatures that form a small, playable force and offers great value for money. The Black Templars Codex is also essential for understanding your army's units and rules.
• How do I assemble and paint my miniatures? You'll need plastic glue, clippers, hobby knives, and paints. There are many online tutorials that can guide you through the process. Start with simple techniques and gradually try more advanced methods as you gain confidence. The Black Templars have a distinctive black and white color scheme, which can be challenging to paint well, but there are many resources and tutorials available to help you.
• Where can I play Warhammer 40,000 games? Local gaming stores and clubs are great places to find opponents and play games. Many stores also host tournaments and events. Online communities and forums can also help you connect with other players.
• How important is the lore of Warhammer 40,000? The lore is a significant part of the Warhammer 40,000 experience. It adds depth and meaning to the game and inspires your painting and hobby projects. Reading the novels, short stories, and background books can greatly enhance your enjoyment of the hobby. While not essential for playing the game, understanding the lore will enrich your experience and make you feel more connected to your army and the universe in which they fight.
• What if I'm not good at painting? Don't worry! Painting miniatures is a skill that improves with practice. Start with simple techniques and don't be afraid to experiment. There are many resources available to help you learn, and the most important thing is to have fun. A well-painted army looks great on the tabletop, but even a basic paint job is better than none at all. Plus, there are plenty of tutorials online for achieving a battle-worn look, which can be very forgiving for beginners.
• What are some good units for a Black Templars army? Crusader Squads are a staple of Black Templars armies, providing a versatile and aggressive core. Intercessor Squads offer ranged firepower and durability. Dreadnoughts provide heavy fire support. And unique characters like High Marshal Helbrecht and Chaplain Grimaldus can significantly enhance your army's effectiveness. The best units for your army will depend on your playstyle and strategy, so experiment and find what works best for you.

We hope these FAQs have been helpful! Remember, the journey into Warhammer 40,000 and the Black Templars is an ongoing one. There's always more to learn, more to build, and more to conquer. So, embrace the crusade, and may the Emperor be with you!