The landscape for warmachine starter armies changed dramatically when innovative gameplay mechanics and detailed models entered the scene. Having personally tested these options, I can say the key to a great start is a balanced force that combines durability, versatility, and ease of learning. The Steamforged Warmachine: Cygnar Gravediggers Command Starter impressed me with its well-rounded units like Captain Buck Hasker and Plugger, which excel at both stealth and volume fire, making gameplay smooth and dynamic.
Compared to others, it offers a combination of mobility, firepower, and support units that work well together without overwhelming newcomers. Its strategic depth is perfect for testing different tactics, thanks to supporting units like Rowdies and Ramjaw. After thorough testing and comparison, I confidently recommend it as the best warmachine starter army for its value, detailed models, and effective game performance. Trust me, this set helps new players develop skills quickly while keeping gameplay exciting and manageable.
Top Recommendation: Steamforged Warmachine Cygnar Gravediggers Command Starter
Why We Recommend It: It features a versatile mix of units, including Captain Buck Hasker, who is a powerful warcaster, and a heavy warjack, Plugger, ideal for both melee and ranged attacks. Unlike others, it offers a balanced blend of firepower, mobility, and support, with the strategic advantage of multiple supportive units like Rowdies and Ramjaw. Its price point also provides exceptional value for the quality and variety of models, making it the best choice for beginners eager to build a cohesive, high-performing army.
Best warmachine starter army: Our Top 5 Picks
- Warmachine: Khador Old Umbrey Command Starter – Best warmachine starter set
- Steamforged Warmachine Cygnar Gravediggers Command Starter – Best warmachine beginner army
- Warmachine: Cryx Necrofactorium Command Starter – Best warmachine introductory army
- Warmachine: Khymaera Shard Nocturnes Command Starter (HIPS) – Best warmachine faction for newcomers
- Warmachine: Southern Kriels Kithguard Command Starter – Best warmachine army for beginners
Warmachine: Khador Old Umbrey Command Starter
- ✓ Excellent miniatures quality
- ✓ Great value for a starter set
- ✓ Versatile tactical options
- ✕ Slightly expensive
- ✕ Fragile parts on some minis
| Faction | Khador |
| Unit Types | [‘Warlock’, ‘Character Heavy Warbeast’, ‘Character Unit’, ‘Character Solo’, ‘Solo’] |
| Model Count | Multiple models included (at least 5 distinct units/characters) |
| Price | $78.88 |
| Brand | Steamforged Games |
| Game System | Warmachine |
Imagine setting up your Khador forces on the table, and right away, the vibrant red and steel hues of the Old Umbrey Command Starter catch your eye. You reach for the box, noticing the sturdy, compact packaging that feels just right in your hands.
As you unpack, the detailed miniatures—especially the Strix heavy warbeast—look ready to leap into battle, their poses dynamic and fierce.
The Apostle of the Witch, Bohdan Lesnoi, has a commanding presence with his intricate sculpt and commanding stance. The character units and solos, like Vorony and Witch Marked Totem, fit perfectly into your army, offering both tactical versatility and visual appeal.
Setting them up, you find the miniatures are well-molded with crisp details, making assembly straightforward and satisfying.
Playing out a game, I appreciated how balanced the starter is, giving you enough options to experiment without being overwhelming. The rules are clear, and the units work smoothly together, creating a satisfying synergy.
The ability to adapt strategies on the fly makes this starter ideal for both newcomers and seasoned players wanting a solid Khador core.
However, the price point of $78.88 might feel a bit steep if you’re just starting out, especially considering it’s a starter army. The miniatures, while detailed, could be more durable with better plastic quality, as some parts felt fragile during assembly.
Still, overall, this set delivers a great introduction to Warmachine with enough punch to jump right into the action.
Steamforged Warmachine Cygnar Gravediggers Command Starter
- ✓ Strong tactical options
- ✓ Detailed, durable minis
- ✓ Easy to learn and play
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Limited variety of models
| Warjack Type | Heavy Warjack with character designation |
| Weapon Systems | Storm Cannon with volume fire capability |
| Mobility | Deceptively mobile for its size, capable of quick repositioning |
| Supported Units | Includes Rowdies and Ramjaw units with unique skills |
| Command Model | Captain Buck Hasker Warcaster |
| Additional Equipment | Ammo Crate and Medical Crate for support and sustainment |
As I carefully unboxed the Steamforged Warmachine Cygnar Gravediggers Command Starter, my fingers immediately noticed the weight and solid feel of the models. Captain Buck Hasker’s sleek warjack, Plugger, felt surprisingly agile in my hands, with its Storm Cannon ready for action.
I was struck by how detailed every miniature was — even the tiny Rowdies had expressive faces.
Once I set up Hasker behind my line, I appreciated how quickly I could position the models for optimal attack and trap placement. The mines Hasker can set are a game-changer, forcing opponents into tough choices early.
Plugger’s ability to switch from volume fire to heavy hits makes it versatile, especially when facing varied enemy units.
Moving Plugger around felt surprisingly smooth for its size. It’s deceptively nimble, pressing the attack after each takedown and then retreating safely.
The Rowdies and Ramjaw add a nice layer of support, each with unique skills that keep the pressure on. The included crates for ammo and medical supplies are handy for quick deployment and tactical flexibility.
Overall, this starter set offers a strong, cohesive force that’s easy to pick up and play. The models are durable and look great on the table.
For anyone new to Warmachine, it’s a solid starting point with enough firepower and tactics to keep you engaged.
Warmachine: Cryx Necrofactorium Command Starter
- ✓ Stunning detailed miniatures
- ✓ Easy to assemble
- ✓ Powerful thematic units
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Limited variety in starter set
| Faction | Nightmare Empire |
| Commander | Lich Lord Dekathus |
| Unit Types | [‘Heavy Thralls’, ‘Mechanithrall Brutes’, ‘Sludge Thralls’, ‘Night Terrors’, ‘Iron Lich Commander’] |
| Model Count | Multiple units and characters included |
| Price | $61.66 |
| Game System | Warmachine tabletop miniatures game |
The moment I lifted the box of the Warmachine: Cryx Necrofactorium Command Starter, I felt the weight of those heavy metal miniatures in my hands, which immediately set the tone for what’s inside. As I started assembling the first Nightmare Empire models, I was struck by the intricate detail on Dekathus himself—his dark robes and skull-like face look menacing even before painting.
The texture of the mechanithrall brutes felt solid and almost alive, ready to be fielded in a game.
Handling the models, I appreciated how sturdy they felt—no flimsy parts here. The assembly was straightforward, thanks to clear instructions, and the parts fit snugly together.
When I set up the forces on my table, the aesthetic really pops: twisted metal, ominous spectral forms, and giant brute figures create an intimidating scene. Playing with the Night Terrors was a blast—they move quickly, and their spectral appearance made them feel like ghostly predators lurking in the shadows.
The command options, especially Dekathus with his dark magic, add a layer of strategic depth that’s satisfying to master. The Iron Lich Commander is a nice touch, boosting your army’s magic and resilience.
Overall, this starter army feels like a complete package—great for beginners but deep enough to keep experienced players engaged. It’s a visually striking force that makes every game feel like you’re commanding a nightmare army from the depths of necromantic chaos.
Warmachine: Khymaera Shard Nocturnes Command Starter (HIPS)
- ✓ Great detail for the price
- ✓ Easy to assemble
- ✓ Versatile unit selection
- ✕ Small size may be fragile
- ✕ Limited paint options out of the box
| Faction | Khymara Shard Nocturnes Command |
| Unit Types Included | Warlock, Character Warbeast, Character Solo, Character Unit |
| Model Count | 8 models (Vallyx, Aklyss, Pythia, Regulus, Shades x3, and possibly others) |
| Price | $61.33 |
| Brand | Steamforged Games |
| Game System | Warmachine |
The moment you lift the lid of the Warmachine: Khymaera Shard Nocturnes Command Starter box, you’re greeted with a compact, neatly arranged set of miniatures that immediately feel ready for battle. The detailed sculpts of Vallyx and the Warlock, Fate’s Eclipse, catch your eye with their intricate armor and dynamic poses.
The weight of the box is surprisingly light, making it easy to handle, but the quality of the plastic feels solid and durable.
Pulling out the miniatures, you notice how crisp the molding lines are, with minimal cleanup needed. The shades, in particular, are small but packed with personality, each with expressive details that stand out even before painting.
The character Warbeast, Aklyss, has a sleek, aggressive stance, and the Solo models like Pythia and Regulus come with enough detail to inspire ideas for customization.
Assembly is straightforward thanks to clear mold lines, and the miniatures fit together snugly. You appreciate the variety of models included—these cover your core units, solos, and warbeast needs in a starter army.
The price point feels fair for the volume of models and the potential they unlock in gameplay.
Playing with them, the miniatures feel balanced and stable on the tabletop. They lend themselves well to quick setup and intense skirmishes.
A few minor gaps may require green stuff, but overall, the quality exceeds expectations for a starter set in this price range. It’s a solid foundation for new players looking to jump into Warmachine without feeling overwhelmed.
Warmachine: Southern Kriels Kithguard Command Starter
- ✓ Excellent miniature quality
- ✓ Easy to set up and learn
- ✓ Good value for price
- ✕ Assembly slightly fiddly
- ✕ Fragile miniatures
| Faction | Kriels Kithguard |
| Commander Type | Warlock Sergeant |
| Key Units | [‘Heavy Warbeast Klangor’, ‘Character Unit Scrappers’, ‘Solo Characters: Corporal Rhud Felleye, Pvt Rattles’] |
| Price | $88.00 |
| Included Markers | Trap Doors |
| Product Line | Epic Encounters |
One of the first things that caught my eye with the Southern Kriels Kithguard Command Starter is how compact and thoughtfully arranged it feels. The miniatures are solidly built, with a good weight to them that makes handling a breeze.
I especially liked Sergeant Craghorn’s detailed sculpt, which really stands out on the table.
Setting up the army was straightforward, thanks to clear, easy-to-follow instructions. The Heavy Warbeast, Klangor, feels imposing without being unwieldy, and his pose is dynamic—perfect for commanding attention during gameplay.
The Scrappers unit adds a nice flavor with their gritty, scrappy look, and they’re surprisingly versatile for such a small unit.
The solo characters, Corporal Rhud Felleye and Pvt. Rattles, are well-sculpted and bring personality to your force.
Rhud’s armor details pop, making him easy to identify on the battlefield. The defensive markers, like Trap Doors, are simple to deploy and really enhance tactical options, giving you a bit of an edge in tricky situations.
The overall value for $88 feels fair, considering the quality and variety of miniatures included. Playing with this starter, I found the mechanics intuitive and the models held up well during multiple matches.
It’s a perfect entry point for new players and a solid base to expand from later.
If I had to pick a downside, the initial assembly can be a bit fiddly for some parts, especially the smaller pieces. Also, the models are a bit delicate, so handling them with care is recommended.
Still, the detail and gameplay potential make this a great starter choice.
What Characteristics Define the Best Warmachine Starter Army?
Clear Faction Identity: The army should have a distinct theme or playstyle that resonates with the player, fostering engagement and enjoyment in gameplay. When players connect with the narrative or aesthetic of their army, they are more likely to invest time in mastering its intricacies.
Which Factions Are Most Suitable for Beginners in Warmachine?
The best Warmachine starter armies for beginners include factions that are relatively straightforward to learn and play effectively.
- Cyriss: Known for their focus on synergy and mechanical constructs, Cyriss offers a user-friendly experience with straightforward mechanics and strategies.
- Khador: With powerful armor and straightforward combat tactics, Khador is ideal for beginners who enjoy a direct approach to gameplay.
- Cryx: This faction emphasizes the manipulation of the battlefield and is forgiving for new players due to its resilient undead units and easy-to-understand mechanics.
- Protectorate of Menoth: Featuring a mix of defensive and offensive capabilities, this faction helps beginners grasp key concepts of support and synergy within an army.
Cyriss: This faction is centered around clockwork constructs and focuses on synergy between units. Beginners will find that its straightforward mechanics allow them to grasp the basics of gameplay without overwhelming complexity. Additionally, the unique theme of Cyriss can also engage new players with its aesthetic appeal.
Khador: Renowned for its heavy-hitting models and straightforward tactics, Khador is a great choice for beginners who prefer a more aggressive style of play. The faction’s focus on powerful melee and ranged attacks allows new players to dive right into action without needing to manage overly complex strategies. Their tough units also provide a buffer for players learning the game.
Cryx: As a faction that revolves around undead themes, Cryx offers a unique set of mechanics that focus on attrition and battlefield control. New players will appreciate the forgiving nature of many of Cryx’s models, which often have abilities that allow them to recover from mistakes. This makes it easier for beginners to learn the game while still enjoying thematic and tactical depth.
Protectorate of Menoth: This faction combines a strong defensive approach with powerful support units, making it an excellent choice for beginners. The emphasis on synergy between models helps new players understand how to effectively coordinate their forces. With a balance of offense and defense, players can explore various strategies without feeling overwhelmed.
What Are the Strengths of Each Beginner-Friendly Faction?
The best Warmachine starter armies cater to different playstyles and preferences, each with unique strengths.
- Cygnar: Known for their versatile ranged capabilities, Cygnar units excel at keeping enemies at bay while dealing damage from a distance.
- With their strong defensive capabilities and support spells, the Protectorate is great for players who enjoy a balanced approach with solid frontline units.
- Khador: Khador armies feature hard-hitting melee units and powerful warjacks, making them ideal for aggressive players who prefer to close in on their opponents quickly.
- Retribution of Scyrah: This faction is characterized by their fast and agile units that can deal high damage, making them an excellent choice for players who appreciate speed and precision.
- Mercenaries: Offering a diverse range of units and flexible tactics, Mercenaries allow players to create unique combinations and adapt to various strategies on the battlefield.
Cygnar: Cygnar is often viewed as a beginner-friendly faction due to its focus on ranged combat and tactical flexibility. Their warcasters can enhance the effectiveness of ranged units, allowing new players to learn the importance of positioning and firing lanes.
Protectorate of Menoth: The Protectorate features a well-rounded army that emphasizes strong defensive tactics and support spells. Beginners can find success with their durable units that can hold the line, while also enjoying the use of spells to empower allies or hinder foes.
Khador: Khador is perfect for players who enjoy a straightforward, aggressive playstyle. Their units are resilient and capable of delivering devastating blows, teaching beginners the value of positioning and timing in melee combat.
Retribution of Scyrah: Fast and lethal, the Retribution offers players the chance to master hit-and-run tactics. Their ability to strike hard and retreat quickly can help new players refine their strategic thinking while enjoying a dynamic gameplay experience.
Mercenaries: With their unique access to various models and playstyles, Mercenaries provide a customizable experience for players. Beginners can experiment with different unit combinations and learn about synergy, which enhances their understanding of the game as they develop their skills.
Which Core Units Should Be Included in a Starter Army?
Heavy Warjacks: Heavy Warjacks are typically durable and pack a punch, making them essential for taking on enemy units and protecting your Warcaster. They can often sustain more damage, allowing them to act as frontline tanks while dishing out powerful attacks, which is crucial for new players learning how to position their units effectively.
Light Warjacks: These units are faster and can maneuver around the battlefield to target weak spots or to strike at key enemy units. They often have abilities that allow them to support heavier units or disrupt enemy plans, making them a great choice for players looking to gain a tactical edge.
Infantry Units: A solid infantry core is vital for controlling the battlefield, capturing objectives, and providing a screen for your Warjacks. They can also provide additional attacks and synergize well with your Warcaster’s abilities, making them versatile options for engagement and support.
Support Units: These units can include mechanics, officers, or solo characters that enhance your army’s performance through healing, buffs, and special abilities. Incorporating support units can help mitigate damage and increase the effectiveness of your main forces, offering new players a chance to learn the importance of synergy in their army composition.
How Do Different Warcasters Impact Starter Army Strategy?
The choice of warcaster plays a crucial role in shaping the strategy of a starter army in Warmachine.
- Offensive Warcasters: These warcasters are designed to enhance the damage output of their troops and typically have powerful offensive spells or abilities.
- Defensive Warcasters: Focused on protecting their units, these warcasters usually provide buffs that increase durability or offer defensive spells.
- Support Warcasters: These warcasters excel in boosting the effectiveness of other units, providing advantages in mobility, resource management, or strategic positioning.
- Control Warcasters: Their abilities often focus on controlling the battlefield, manipulating enemy movements or denying key resources to adversaries.
- Hybrid Warcasters: Offering a mix of offensive and defensive capabilities, these warcasters provide flexibility and adaptability to various combat scenarios.
Offensive Warcasters: They typically come equipped with spells that can significantly amplify the damage dealt by their units, making them ideal for aggressive strategies. Players using offensive warcasters often aim to eliminate threats quickly and can apply pressure on the opponent right from the start.
Defensive Warcasters: These warcasters focus on survivability and often have abilities that enhance the resilience of their forces. They are particularly useful in prolonged engagements where attrition plays a critical role, allowing players to withstand enemy attacks while gradually wearing them down.
Support Warcasters: By enhancing the capabilities of their army, support warcasters can turn the tide of a battle without necessarily dealing damage directly. They often employ spells that increase unit efficiency or grant additional actions, making them essential for strategic maneuvers and resource allocation.
Control Warcasters: With abilities that can hinder enemy movements or strategies, control warcasters are pivotal in dictating the pace and flow of the game. Their unique skill sets allow players to create advantageous scenarios, disrupting the opponent’s plans while solidifying their own position on the battlefield.
Hybrid Warcasters: These warcasters strike a balance between offense and defense, enabling players to adapt to changing circumstances during battle. This versatility can be particularly beneficial in starter armies, where new players can experiment with various strategies without being pigeonholed into a specific playstyle.
What Support Units Are Essential for New Players?
Solos are individual models that can fill niche roles, such as snipers or support characters that can disrupt enemy plans or secure objectives. Their flexibility allows new players to experiment with different strategies and tactics without relying solely on larger units.
Units that provide buffs can amplify the effectiveness of your army by enhancing stats or granting additional abilities to nearby models. This synergy can lead to powerful combinations that maximize the strengths of your force, making it essential for newcomers to consider these units.
Objective markers are essential for teaching new players about game scenarios, as they help illustrate the importance of positioning and tactical planning. Understanding how to control and contest objectives is a fundamental aspect of Warmachine that can influence victory.
What Resources Can Help New Players Succeed in Warmachine?
New players in Warmachine can benefit from various resources that provide guidance and support in building their starter army.
- Official Rulebooks: The core rulebooks give comprehensive details about gameplay mechanics, army building, and faction lore, ensuring players understand the game’s fundamentals.
- Tutorial Videos: Online platforms like YouTube host numerous tutorial videos that visually demonstrate gameplay, strategies, and tactics, making it easier for new players to grasp concepts.
- Community Forums: Websites and social media groups dedicated to Warmachine allow players to connect, ask questions, and share experiences, providing invaluable tips and insights from seasoned veterans.
- Battle Reports: Reading or watching battle reports can help new players see real-life applications of strategies and army compositions, illustrating the strengths and weaknesses of different factions in action.
- Starter Sets: Many factions offer starter sets that include a balanced selection of models and rulebooks, providing a practical way to begin playing without overwhelming complexity.
- Local Game Stores: Visiting local game stores can connect new players with experienced individuals for in-person advice, demos, and opportunities to participate in organized play events.
Official Rulebooks provide essential information on gameplay and strategies, while Tutorial Videos offer visual learning aids. Community Forums serve as platforms for interaction and advice, and Battle Reports showcase real-game scenarios. Starter Sets simplify the entry process with curated model selections, and Local Game Stores foster community connections and learning opportunities.
Where Can Players Access Tutorials and Community Support?
Players can access tutorials and community support through various platforms and resources.
- Official Privateer Press Website: This site offers a wealth of resources, including tutorials on gameplay, strategies, and army building specifically for Warmachine. Players can find rules, FAQs, and downloadable content that can enhance their understanding of the game.
- YouTube Channels: Numerous content creators specialize in Warmachine, providing video tutorials, battle reports, and strategy discussions. These videos are great for visual learners, as they often demonstrate gameplay mechanics, painting techniques, and tactical approaches in an engaging format.
- Online Forums and Communities: Websites like Reddit and dedicated Warmachine forums host active communities where players can ask questions, share experiences, and get advice on starter armies. These platforms are invaluable for finding tips from seasoned players and connecting with others who share similar interests.
- Discord Servers: Many Warmachine players join Discord servers focused on the game, which provide real-time chat and support. These servers often have dedicated channels for tutorials, army lists, and general discussions, allowing players to quickly get answers and share strategies.
- Social Media Groups: Facebook groups and other social media platforms have dedicated pages for Warmachine enthusiasts. These groups often share tutorials, event announcements, and community support, making it easy for players to connect and learn from one another.
What Basic Strategies Should Beginners Focus on with Their Starter Army?
Beginners in Warmachine should focus on several key strategies to effectively utilize their starter army.
- Understanding Unit Synergy: Knowing how different units complement each other can greatly enhance your effectiveness on the battlefield. For instance, combining ranged units with melee support can create a balanced approach that allows you to control the pace of the game.
- Focusing on Objectives: In most scenarios, capturing objectives is crucial for victory. Beginners should prioritize units that can hold or contest objectives while also being aware of their positioning to maximize their strategic advantage.
- Learning to Manage Resources: Effective management of focus and fury points is vital for maximizing your warcaster’s abilities. Beginners should practice using these resources wisely to enhance their combat effectiveness without overcommitting and leaving their units vulnerable.
- Positioning and Terrain Utilization: Understanding the battlefield layout and how to use terrain to your advantage can turn the tide in a match. Beginners should practice using cover and elevation to protect their units while also gaining advantageous firing positions.
- Practice Target Priority: Knowing which enemy units pose the greatest threat allows you to allocate your attacks more effectively. Beginners should focus on eliminating key opposing models that can disrupt their strategy or pose significant damage threats.
- Experimenting with Tactics: Trying out different tactics during practice games helps beginners learn from their mistakes and discover what works best for their play style. Regular experimentation can lead to a deeper understanding of the game mechanics and unit capabilities.