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So, you've decided to dive into the grimdark universe of Warhammer 40,000! Welcome to a hobby where your wallet will cry, your painting skills will be tested, and you'll spend way too much time arguing about whether Space Marines are overpowered (they are, but we love them anyway).

Choosing your first army can feel overwhelming – there are more factions than you can shake a chainsword at! But don't worry, we've got your back. Here's how to pick your first 40K army without ending up with a pile of plastic regret.

Rule #1: Rule of Cool

First things first – which army makes you go "WOAH, THAT'S COOL!" when you see them? Trust us, you'll be spending A LOT of time with these little plastic warriors. If you don't love how they look, you'll lose motivation faster than a Guardsman facing a Bloodthirster.

Love sleek, high-tech warriors? Tau Empire might be your jam. Fancy yourself a fan of gothic space knights? Space Marines are calling your name. Want to embrace the chaos and paint everything in delightfully disturbing colors? Chaos Space Marines or Daemons await!

Rule #2: Consider Your Playstyle

Are you the type who likes to charge headfirst into battle screaming "WAAAGH!"? Orks are perfect for you! Prefer tactical shooting and keeping your distance? Imperial Guard or Tau will suit you nicely. Want a bit of everything? Space Marines are the Swiss Army knife of 40K.

Here's a quick breakdown:

• Aggressive Melee: Orks, World Eaters, Tyranids
• Shooty Shooty: Tau, Imperial Guard, Dark Angels
• Balanced: Space Marines, Necrons, Eldar
• Horde Armies: Orks, Tyranids, Imperial Guard
• Elite Forces: Custodes, Grey Knights, Death Guard

Rule #3: Budget Reality Check

Let's be real – 40K isn't cheap. But some armies are more wallet-friendly than others for beginners:

Budget-Friendly Options:

• Space Marines: Tons of starter sets and second-hand options
• Death Guard: Elite army means fewer models needed
• Necrons: Great starter sets and relatively simple to paint

Wallet Destroyers:

• Imperial Guard: You need SO many models
• Orks: Horde army = lots of boyz to buy
• Any army if you get addicted to Forge World models (we've all been there)

Rule #4: The Painting Factor

Some armies are more forgiving for new painters:

• Easy Mode: Necrons (metallic spray paint is your friend), Death Guard (rust and grime hide mistakes!)
• Medium: Space Marines, Orks
• Challenge Mode: Eldar, Tau (all those clean lines and edge highlights!)

Rule #5: Start Small, Dream Big

Don't go crazy on your first purchase! Start with:

• A Combat Patrol box (perfect starter size)
• The army's codex
• Basic painting supplies

Resist the urge to buy everything at once. We know that new army excitement is real, but your bank account (and significant other) will thank you later.

The Final Verdict

The best first army is the one that makes you excited to hobby. Whether you're drawn to the noble Ultramarines, the sneaky Genestealer Cults, or the absolutely bonkers Orks, pick what speaks to you.

Remember: there's no wrong choice, only expensive ones! And hey, this probably won't be your last army anyway – we've all got that pile of shame growing in the corner.

Ready to start your 40K journey? Check out our Combat Patrol boxes and starter sets. Your wallet might not forgive you, but your inner general definitely will!

For the Emperor! (Or Chaos, or the Greater Good, or WAAAGH! – we don't judge)