Warhammer 40,000 is an amazing hobby, but with so many factions and kits available, it can be overwhelming to figure out how to start. Fortunately, Games Workshop has created starter sets and Combat Patrol boxes that make it easy to dive in. In this guide, we’ll highlight the best Warhammer 40K starter sets and Combat Patrols for beginners, focusing on kits that are balanced, easy to build, and fun to play. Whether you’re wondering how to start Warhammer 40K or looking for the best Combat Patrol for beginners, read on for top recommendations.
Why Start with a Starter Set or Combat Patrol?
Starter Sets and Combat Patrols are specifically designed to help new players begin Warhammer 40K quickly and affordably. They offer great value and a ready-made starting army:
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Starter Sets include two small armies, a rulebook, dice, measuring tools, and everything needed to play. Perfect for jumping in with a friend.
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Combat Patrols are single-faction boxes designed for small, fast-paced games and are a great foundation for a future army.
Both options are affordable, accessible, and help players learn the game without needing to build a massive force from scratch.
Warhammer 40K Starter Sets for Beginners
Warhammer 40K Introductory Set (Space Marines vs Tyranids)
This is an excellent entry point for first-time players or younger hobbyists. It includes push-fit models, a simplified rulebook, dice, a gaming mat, and everything needed to play right out of the box. The set features a small force of Space Marines facing off against a Tyranid swarm—ideal for quick learning games.
Warhammer 40K Starter Set (Expanded Starter – Space Marines vs Tyranids)
This set offers a more substantial collection of models and content for those ready to take a deeper dive. It features a full squad of Space Marines and a larger Tyranid force, along with an expanded rulebook, missions, and a full play surface. The models are still beginner-friendly and the included materials make it easy to jump into the game or expand into full Combat Patrol format.
Best Combat Patrols for Beginners
If you’ve already chosen a faction that interests you, Combat Patrol boxes are the perfect next step. Each box is designed to give you a balanced, ready-to-play small army. Here are a few of the best options for beginners:
Space Marines – Combat Patrol
Space Marines are the face of Warhammer 40K and one of the most forgiving armies for new players. Their units are tough, versatile, and relatively low in model count, which makes them easier to assemble and paint. Combat Patrol boxes typically include a leader and a solid mix of troops and support units.
*** This is sold through Games Workshop exclusively as of now ***
Necrons – Combat Patrol
Necrons are ideal for beginners who enjoy the idea of a robotic undead army. Their models are straightforward to build, resilient in gameplay, and look great with simple painting techniques. Their Combat Patrol includes warriors, elite units, and a large walker, offering a good variety of playstyles within one faction.
Orks – Combat Patrol
Orks bring chaos, humor, and raw aggression to the tabletop. Their miniatures are fun and forgiving to build and paint, and their gameplay focuses on fast, brutal close combat. A typical Ork Combat Patrol includes a mix of brawlers and heavy support, giving players a rowdy, high-energy army right out of the box.
Tyranids – Combat Patrol
Tyranids are a classic alien swarm army with a strong visual identity and aggressive playstyle. The Combat Patrol combines small creatures and larger monsters, making it great for players who enjoy overwhelming their opponent with numbers. It's a perfect expansion if you’ve tried the Tyranids in a starter set and want more.
*** This is sold through Games Workshop exclusively as of now ***
Death Guard or Chaos Space Marines – Combat Patrol
For players who like the darker, more twisted side of the 41st Millennium, these Chaos forces are great beginner options. Death Guard units are extremely tough and feature gruesome, disease-ridden designs that are easy to paint with textured effects. Chaos Space Marines offer a flexible mix of elite and cultist units for a balanced, sinister force.
Tips for Choosing Your First Army
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Go with what excites you visually. You’ll spend time building and painting your models, so it’s important to pick a faction that inspires you.
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Consider the model count and complexity. Some armies (like Orks or Tyranids) have more models, while others (like Space Marines or Custodes) require fewer.
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Focus on learning, not winning. All Combat Patrols are designed to be relatively balanced, so you can pick what you like and still have a fair match.
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Start small and grow. Whether you choose a starter set or a Combat Patrol, these boxes are excellent launching points for bigger armies and more advanced play.
Ready to Choose Your Warhammer 40K Starter?
Starting Warhammer 40K is an exciting journey, and these beginner-friendly options make it easy to get going. Whether you pick a starter set to learn the game or dive right into a Combat Patrol with your favorite faction, you’ll be building, painting, and battling in no time. Choose the army that speaks to you and start your adventure in the grim darkness of the far future.
