The world's first academic conference dedicated to all things Warhammer
Game designer Rick Priestley has described the original Warhammer setting as a portmanteau-world: a universe inspired by real world history, folk stories, and fantasy literature, particularly the works of J.R.R. Tolkein and Michael Moorcock. Priestley’s subsequent science-fantasy game, 40k, took the same approach: drawing liberally on roleplaying games, comics, science fiction novels, and movies, as …
The TV show MythBusters (2003 – 2016) took popular myths – can a car engine run on Coca Cola? – and put them to the test. I will swap MythBusters’ engineering for social science to put a myth about learning and Warhammer under a metaphorical microscope: “Doing Warhammer is a waste of time because you …
The Warhammer 40’000 universe is immediately recognisable through its distinct visualgrammar: gothic arches, excessive skulls, layered plate armour, cathedral starships, andbaroque insignia. This presentation examines the design and visual aesthetics ofWarhammer 40’000, exploring how these elements construct its oppressive “grimdark”identity and sustain immersion across miniatures, artwork, and digital adaptations.Using visual culture theory (Mirzoeff, 1999) and …
Abstract In the grim darkness of the far future, there is only Warhammer. Games Workshop has waged a constant battle to protect humanity from other miniature games. On the fringes of the Imperium, other games lurk and putter on, unseen by YouTube algorithms and academics. In our present age, the tabletop hobby is dominated by …
This paper investigates the complex assemblage that is the rule system of Warhammer 40k matched play with a focus on participation and materiality based on the auto-ethnographic experiences of a competitive players. Before the first dice are rolled in a game of 40k, a lot of work needs to be done. Armies need to be …
Central to Games Workshop’s Intellectual Property (IP) Law policy is its stringent enforcement mechanism. In doing so, the company engages with a proactive approach to engagement and enforcement of IP protection measures across a wide range of unauthorised uses of its IP. The purpose of such a zealous approach is to ensure the integrity and …