How to Start the Hobby

The First Step: Choosing a Starter Set

To get started, the easiest way is to choose a suitable starter set. These boxes contain everything you need to begin: miniatures, simplified rules, and sometimes even dice. Here are the available options:

The small starter set: Affordable and perfect for testing the hobby with a few miniatures.
The intermediate starter set: More expensive but provides a more complete experience, though it might not include everything needed to play immediately.
The large starter set: Includes two complete armies and everything required to start after assembly (except dice). Perfect if you’re sure about diving into the hobby.

To better understand the costs associated with the hobby, check out our guide on the cost of the hobby.

Assembling Your First Miniatures

Once you’ve chosen your set, assembling the miniatures is the first step. Here are some tips to get started:

Use appropriate tools: clippers, a file, or a knife to clean the pieces.
Follow the instructions provided in the box.
Take your time: precise assembly makes the next steps easier.

Assembly is a key step that can take time. To learn more, explore How Much Time the Hobby Takes.

Exploring Painting

Painting your miniatures is one of the most satisfying aspects of the hobby. To start painting:

Get suitable acrylic paints and a few brushes.
Try a wet palette to extend the usability of your paints.
Begin with a primer coat (white, black, or gray) to prepare your miniatures.
Learn basic techniques like dry brushing and washes to achieve impressive results right away.

Preparing for Your First Game

With your miniatures assembled (and ideally painted), it’s time to play:

Start with simplified rules, often included in the starter sets.
Set up a simple battlefield with whatever you have on hand (books, boxes, or included scenery).
Invite a friend or family member to discover the game together.

If you’re looking for a simplified version of the game to ease into the hobby, explore the Spearhead format.