The Tabletop Field GuideStephen Hunt's SFcrowsnestBack to SFcrowsnest

Stephen Hunt's SFcrowsnest

Warhammer Age of Sigmar

High-fantasy miniature warfare across the Mortal Realms, with armies, heroes, monsters, magic and campaign play.

TypeMiniature wargame
Best forPlayers who want fantasy miniatures, big visual armies, monsters, magic and a large Games Workshop ecosystem.
ComplexityMedium
Beginner friendlinessMedium
Typical sessionIntro games can be short; standard games are usually a full evening once armies and scenarios grow.
First productsStart with a starter set, small-force format, or a faction box that genuinely excites you visually.

What it is

Age of Sigmar is Warhammer fantasy turned up into mythic realms, god-warriors, undead empires, living forests, monsters and magic. Like 40K, the hobby includes collecting, building, painting and playing, but the tone is high fantasy rather than gothic science fiction. It works well for players who want spectacle and a strong model range but prefer enchanted realms to tanks and bolters.

Who it suits

  • Fantasy fans who want miniatures and spectacle.
  • Painters who like monsters, armour, undead and heroic centrepieces.
  • Players who want a supported club and shop scene.
  • Campaign groups that enjoy linked battles and narrative forces.

How to start

  • Pick a faction by models, story and painting appeal.
  • Play small-format games before committing to a large army.
  • Use local wargaming clubs to borrow terrain and find patient opponents.
  • Treat painting as gradual progress rather than a gatekeeping test.

What to watch for

Do not assume it is simply fantasy 40K. The armies, rules tempo and table feel differ, so try a demo before choosing between Warhammer systems.

Useful next steps

Similar games to compare

Warhammer 40,000Kings of WarThe Old WorldFrostgrave