Introduction
Warhammer 40,000: Ultimate Starter Set is a comprehensive entry point into one of the most popular tabletop wargaming franchises. Designed for newcomers and seasoned hobbyists alike, this set includes everything needed to dive into the grim darkness of the 41st Millennium. It features two fully balanced armies—Space Marines and Tyranids—alongside essential tools such as rulebooks, terrain, dice, and a durable gaming mat. As part of the 10th edition release, it offers an updated experience with refined rules and components that cater to both casual players and those looking to expand their collection. For those new to Warhammer 40,000, our review of Games Workshop – Warhammer 40,000: Introductory Set provides an excellent alternative for a more budget-friendly starting point.
Design & Components
The Ultimate Starter Set is packed with high-quality plastic miniatures, including 88 unpainted models divided equally between Space Marines and Tyranids. These push-fit figures are easy to assemble, making them ideal for beginners. The set includes two full Combat Patrol armies, allowing players to engage in balanced battles right out of the box.
Inside the box, you’ll find a range of accessories designed to streamline gameplay:
- Two cardboard gaming mats for quick setup and durability.
- Plastic terrain pieces that add depth and tactical variety to your battlefield. For players seeking premium sci-fi fantasy terrain options, our review of Battle Systems Core Set offers an alternative with high-quality components.
- Dice and measuring rulers for precise movement and combat resolution.
- Rulebooks: A 72-page softcover Warhammer 40,000 Core Rules Booklet and a detailed Ultimate Starter Set Handbook, which includes construction guides, tutorials, and training missions.
The design emphasizes convenience, with all components stored in organized compartments within the box. The inclusion of terrain and mats eliminates the need for additional purchases, making it an excellent value for those just starting out.
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Gameplay Experience
The Ultimate Starter Set is tailored to provide a smooth learning curve for new players while offering enough depth to keep experienced hobbyists engaged. The Core Rules Booklet simplifies the mechanics of movement, combat, and objectives, ensuring that even first-time players can grasp the basics quickly. The training missions in the handbook guide users through step-by-step scenarios, helping them build confidence as they progress.
The two armies included—Space Marines and Tyranids—are well-balanced for immediate play. Each side has access to unique units and strategies, encouraging creative tactics and replayability. The set also supports Combat Patrol games, a fast-paced format that uses pre-built armies for quick matches. This makes it ideal for players who want to jump into battles without the need for extensive customization or painting.
Value & Pricing
Priced at over $200 (£100), the Ultimate Starter Set is more expensive than other starter sets such as the standard Warhammer 40,000 Starter Set, which costs around $110 (£65). However, it justifies its price with a significantly larger component count and added extras like terrain, mats, and two full Combat Patrol armies.
For those new to the hobby, this set offers exceptional value by eliminating the need for additional purchases such as gaming mats or terrain. It also includes all the tools necessary to begin painting and assembling models, though it’s worth noting that paints are sold separately. Compared to alternatives like the Introductory Set or Combat Patrol boxes, the Ultimate Starter Set provides a more comprehensive experience for those willing to invest in a complete setup.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Comprehensive package: Includes two full armies, terrain, mats, and rulebooks, eliminating the need for extra purchases.
- Beginner-friendly: Training missions and tutorials simplify the learning curve for new players.
- High-quality components: Durable plastics, precise measurements, and detailed miniatures enhance the overall experience.
Cons
- Higher price point: The cost is significantly more than other starter sets, which may deter budget-conscious buyers.
- Unpainted models: While this allows for customization, it requires additional time and resources to paint.
- No included paints: Players must purchase separate painting kits if they wish to customize their armies.
Conclusion
The Warhammer 40,000: Ultimate Starter Set is an excellent choice for players ready to fully commit to the hobby. Its comprehensive components, beginner-friendly design, and inclusion of essential tools make it a standout option among starter sets. While its price may be steep for some, the value lies in the completeness of the package and the long-term usability of included items like terrain and mats. For newcomers seeking an all-in-one solution or experienced players looking to expand their collection, this set delivers a satisfying entry into the world of Warhammer 40,000.
