Are you a fan of Warhammer 40K, the vast and immersive sci-fi universe that has inspired countless video games? If so, you are in luck, because there are many great Warhammer 40K games to choose from, whether you prefer strategy, action, or role-playing. In this article, we will rank the best Warhammer 40K games to play in 2023, based on their gameplay, graphics, story, and reviews. We will also include the latest news and updates on some upcoming Warhammer 40K games that you should look forward to.

How We Ranked the Games

We used the following criteria to rank the games:

• Gameplay: How fun, engaging, and challenging is the game? How well does it capture the essence of Warhammer 40K warfare?
• Graphics: How stunning, realistic, and atmospheric are the visuals? How well do they represent the Warhammer 40K universe?
• Story: How gripping, dramatic, and immersive is the narrative? How well does it portray the characters, factions, and lore of Warhammer 40K?
• Reviews: How well-received is the game by critics and players? How high are the ratings and scores on various platforms?

We also considered the release date, the updates, and the popularity of the games. Here is a table that summarizes the main features and ratings of the games:

Game	Release Date	Genre	Factions	Metacritic Score	Steam Rating
Warhammer 40K: Dawn of War	2004	Real-time strategy	9	86	95%
Warhammer 40K: Space Marine	2011	Third-person action	2	74	93%
Warhammer 40K: Dawn of War II	2009	Real-time strategy	6	85	90%
Warhammer 40K: Mechanicus	2018	Turn-based strategy	2	77	90%
Warhammer 40K: Battlefleet Gothic Armada 2	2019	Real-time strategy	12	77	87%
Warhammer 40K: Gladius – Relics of War	2018	4X strategy	8	74	85%
Warhammer 40K: Space Hulk Tactics	2018	Turn-based strategy	2	66	71%
Warhammer 40K: Darktide	2023	Co-op multiplayer first-person shooter	1	N/A	N/A
Warhammer 40K: Chaos Gate – Daemonhunters	2024	Turn-based strategy	2	N/A	N/A
Warhammer 40K: Boltgun	2023	First-person shooter	2	N/A	N/A

The Top 10 Best Warhammer 40K Games

Now that we have the criteria and the table, let’s dive into the details of each game and see why they deserve to be on the list of the best Warhammer 40K games to play in 2023.

10. Warhammer 40K: Darktide

Darktide is the newest Warhammer 40K game on the list, and it is a co-op multiplayer first-person shooter that was released in November 2023. It is set in the hive city of Tertium, where you and your squad of Imperial Guardsmen must fight against hordes of Chaos cultists and mutants. Darktide features four different classes, each with its weapons and abilities, and a variety of missions and environments. The game is developed by Fatshark, the same studio behind the Warhammer: Vermintide series, and it delivers a similar experience of brutal and visceral combat. Darktide is still being updated with new content and features, and the second part of the Traitor Curse anniversary update is expected to arrive in time for the holidays.

Why you should play it:

• If you enjoy co-op multiplayer games with intense and bloody action
• If you want to explore a dark and gritty Warhammer 40K setting
• If you like the Warhammer: Vermintide series and want to try a sci-fi version of it

9. Warhammer 40K: Space Hulk Tactics

Space Hulk Tactics is a turn-based strategy game that was released in 2018. It is based on the classic board game Space Hulk, where you control a squad of Space Marines or Genestealers in a deadly battle inside a derelict spaceship. Space Hulk Tactics offers two different campaigns, one for each faction, and a multiplayer mode where you can create your maps and scenarios. The game also features a card system that adds an extra layer of strategy and customization to your units and actions. Space Hulk Tactics is a faithful adaptation of the board game, with stunning graphics and atmospheric sound effects.

Why you should play it:

• If you are a fan of the Space Hulk board game and want to experience it in a digital format
• If you enjoy turn-based strategy games with tactical and challenging combat
• If you want to play as both the Space Marines and the Genestealers and see the story from different perspectives

8. Warhammer 40K: Gladius – Relics of War

Gladius – Relics of War is a 4X strategy game that was released in 2018. It is the first 4X game set in the Warhammer 40K universe, where you can choose from eight different factions, each with its units, buildings, tech trees, and quests. The game is set on the planet Gladius Prime, where you must explore, expand, exploit, and exterminate your enemies in a procedurally generated world. The game also features a multiplayer mode where you can compete or cooperate with other players. Gladius – Relics of War is a challenging and rewarding game that captures the essence of Warhammer 40K warfare.

Why you should play it:

• If you like 4X strategy games and want to try a Warhammer 40K version of it
• If you want to play as different factions and experience their unique gameplay and lore
• If you want to conquer a hostile and unpredictable planet with your army and strategy

7. Warhammer 40K: Battlefleet Gothic Armada 2

Battlefleet Gothic Armada 2 is a real-time strategy game that was released in 2019. It is the sequel to the 2016 game Battlefleet Gothic Armada, which was based on the tabletop game of the same name. In this game, you command a fleet of spaceships in epic battles across the galaxy, where you can choose from 12 different factions, each with their ships, abilities, and tactics. The game features three different campaigns, one for the Imperium, one for the Necrons, and one for the Tyranids, as well as a multiplayer mode where you can customize your fleet and challenge other players. Battlefleet Gothic Armada 2 is a stunning and immersive game that showcases the diversity and scale of Warhammer 40K space combat.

Why you should play it:

• If you are a fan of the Battlefleet Gothic tabletop game and want to see it in a video game format
• If you enjoy real-time strategy games with spectacular and strategic space battles
• If you want to play as different factions and witness their different stories and objectives

6. Warhammer 40K: Mechanicus

Mechanicus is a turn-based strategy game that was released in 2018. It is the first game to focus on the Adeptus Mechanicus, the tech priests of the Imperium who worship the Machine God. In this game, you lead a team of tech-priests on an expedition to the newly discovered Necron tomb world of Silva Tenebris, where you must explore, loot, and fight against ancient machines. The game features a deep and complex customization system, where you can upgrade your tech priests with various cybernetic enhancements, weapons, and skills. The game also features a dynamic and branching story, where your choices and actions will affect the outcome of the mission. Mechanicus is a unique and engaging game that offers a fresh perspective on the Warhammer 40K universe.

Why you should play it:

• If you are interested in the Adeptus Mechanicus and their mysterious and arcane technology
• If you like turn-based strategy games with a lot of options and customization
• If you want to experience a different and nonlinear Warhammer 40K story

5. Warhammer 40K: Space Marine

Space Marine is a third-person action game that was released in 2011. It is one of the few games that lets you play as a Space Marine, the elite warrior of the Imperium. In this game, you take the role of Captain Titus, a veteran of the Ultramarines chapter, who must defend a Forge World from an Ork invasion. The game features a fast-paced and brutal combat system, where you can use a variety of melee and ranged weapons, as well as a jetpack, to slaughter your enemies. The game also features a multiplayer mode, where you can customize your own Space Marine and fight against other players in various modes and maps. Space Marine is a thrilling and satisfying game that makes you feel like a true hero of the Imperium.

Why you should play it:

• If you want to play as a Space Marine and experience their power and glory

• If you love action games with visceral and bloody combat
• If you want to enjoy a rich and cinematic Warhammer 40K story

4. Warhammer 40K: Chaos Gate – Daemonhunters

Chaos Gate – Daemonhunters is a turn-based strategy game that is scheduled to be released in 2024. It is the sequel to the 1998 game Warhammer 40K: Chaos Gate, which was a cult classic among Warhammer fans. In this game, you control a squad of Grey Knights, the most elite and secretive of the Space Marines, who specialize in fighting against the forces of Chaos and the daemonic. The game features a dark and gritty story, where you must infiltrate and destroy a Chaos Gate that threatens to unleash a daemonic invasion. The game also features a tactical and challenging combat system, where you can use the psychic powers and relics of the Grey Knights, as well as the environment, to your advantage. Chaos Gate – Daemonhunters is a highly anticipated game that promises to deliver a faithful and immersive Warhammer 40K experience.

Why you should play it:

• If you are excited about the upcoming Warhammer 40K game and want to pre-order it
• If you are a fan of the Grey Knights and their noble and mysterious mission
• If you like turn-based strategy games with a dark and horror-themed atmosphere

3. Warhammer 40K: Dawn of War II

Dawn of War II is a real-time strategy game that was released in 2009. It is the sequel to the 2004 game Warhammer 40K: Dawn of War, which was one of the most successful and influential Warhammer 40K games of all time. In this game, you control a squad of Space Marines from the Blood Ravens chapter, who must fight against various enemies, such as the Orks, the Eldar, the Tyranids, and the Chaos. The game features a dynamic and nonlinear campaign, where you can choose your missions, upgrade your squad, and influence the fate of the sub-sector. The game also features a cooperative and competitive multiplayer mode, where you can play as one of six different factions, each with their units and abilities. Dawn of War II is a refined and innovative game that combines strategy, RPG, and action elements.

Why you should play it:

• If you want to play a classic and acclaimed Warhammer 40K game that still holds up today
• If you want to control and customize your squad of Space Marines and lead them in various missions
• If you want to play with or against other players in a fun and balanced multiplayer mode

2. Warhammer 40K: Boltgun

Boltgun is a first-person shooter game that was released in 2023. It is the sequel to the 2011 game Warhammer 40K: Space Marine, which was a critical and commercial success. In this game, you reprise the role of Captain Titus, who has been branded as a traitor by the Inquisition and must clear his name and stop a new threat. The game features a revamped and improved combat system, where you can use a variety of weapons, grenades, and abilities, as well as a new cover system and a grappling hook. The game also features a rich and cinematic story, where you will encounter familiar and new characters, locations, and enemies. The game also features a multiplayer mode, where you can customize your character and fight against other players in various modes and maps. Boltgun is a stunning and epic game that takes the Warhammer 40K action to the next level.

Why you should play it:

• If you enjoyed the first Warhammer 40K: Space Marine game and want to see the continuation of the story
• If you love first-person shooter games with fast and furious combat
• If you want to experience a new and improved Warhammer 40K game with amazing graphics and sound

1. Warhammer 40K: Dawn of War

Dawn of War is a real-time strategy game that was released in 2004. It is the first and the best Warhammer 40K game ever made, and it revolutionized the genre with its innovative and immersive gameplay. In this game, you can play as one of four different factions, the Space Marines, the Orks, the Eldar, or the Chaos, and lead them in a war for the planet of Tartarus. The game features a gripping and dramatic story, where you will witness the horrors and the glory of the 41st millennium. The game also features a groundbreaking and realistic combat system, where you can see the units react to the environment, use cover, and perform spectacular animations. The game also features a multiplayer mode, where you can play as one of nine different factions, each with their units, buildings, and strategies. Dawn of War is a masterpiece and a classic that every Warhammer 40K fan should play.

Why you should play it:

• If you want to play the best Warhammer 40K game of all time and see why it is so popular and influential
• If you want to play as different factions and experience their different gameplay and lore
• If you want to enjoy a realistic and immersive Warhammer 40K game with amazing graphics and sound

Conclusion

Warhammer 40K is a rich and diverse universe that offers endless possibilities for video games. Whether you prefer strategy, action, or role-playing, there is a Warhammer 40K game for you. These are the best Warhammer 40K games to play in 2023, but there are many more to explore and enjoy. If you are looking for more Warhammer 40K content, you can also check out the latest news and features on the Warhammer Community website, or watch the Warhammer Preview Online, where you can see the latest reveals and announcements for Warhammer 40K and other Warhammer games.

Thank you for reading this article, and we hope you have fun playing the best Warhammer 40K games.