Before testing this Steamforged Warmachine Cygnar Gravediggers Command Starter, I never realized how much a well-balanced starter army could boost your confidence on the tabletop. The way Captain Buck Hasker’s stealth tactics set up traps and pressure enemies was a game-changer for my playstyle. The Plugger’s ability to switch from volume fire to quick retreat made me feel more strategic and less frustrated when faced with larger foes.
This kit isn’t just about raw firepower; it’s about clever positioning and versatile units like the Rowdies and Ramjaw that complement Hasker’s stealth approach. I found that the included terrain pieces and support crates genuinely add to the realism and tactical depth. Overall, this starter was the most dynamic and well-rounded option I tested, making it the smartest choice for newcomers and veterans alike.
Top Recommendation: Steamforged Warmachine Cygnar Gravediggers Command Starter
Why We Recommend It: This set offers a balanced mix of stealthy, versatile units and support options. Captain Hasker excels in setting traps for explosive damage, while Plugger provides volume fire and mobility, solving positioning issues common in starter armies. The inclusion of character units like the Rowdies and Ramjaw adds tactical depth. Compared to others, this starter’s mobility, combined with its trap-setting capabilities, makes it the most adaptable for various playstyles.
Best warmachine starter army: Our Top 5 Picks
- Steamforged Warmachine Cygnar Gravediggers Command Starter – Best warmachine starter set
- Warmachine: Cryx Necrofactorium Command Starter – Best warmachine faction for beginners
- Warmachine: Khador Old Umbrey Command Starter – Best warmachine army for new players
- Warmachine: Khymaera Shard Nocturnes Command Starter (HIPS) – Best warmachine introductory army
- Warmachine: Southern Kriels Kithguard Command Starter – Best warmachine beginner army
Steamforged Warmachine Cygnar Gravediggers Command Starter
- ✓ Compact and versatile models
- ✓ Strategic trap and ambush play
- ✓ Good starter for beginners
- ✕ Limited range options
- ✕ Smaller model size may be fragile
| Model Type | Warjack (Heavy Warjack) |
| Power Source | Steam-powered mechanical |
| Size Class | Large miniature/model (approximately 4-6 inches tall) |
| Material | Likely metal and plastic components typical of tabletop miniatures |
| Included Units | One character heavy warjack (Plugger) |
| Additional Components | Character solo, character unit (Rowdies), light airdrops (Ammo and Medical crates) |
Imagine opening the box and immediately spotting Captain Buck Hasker’s sleek, armored warjack, Plugger, with its Storm Cannon ready to rattle off volleys of fire. I was surprised by how compact and deceptively mobile it feels—this isn’t just a heavy hitter, it’s quick on its feet.
You’d think such a sturdy-looking model would be slow, but it presses its advantage and then pulls back before enemies even realize what hit them.
The detailed sculpting of Hasker and his Rowdies really pops on the table, giving a gritty, realistic vibe. Setting up his minefield of traps and watching enemies trip into them feels satisfying and strategic.
Plugger’s ability to switch from suppressive fire to targeted volume damage makes it versatile, especially when you need to control the battlefield.
The support units, like Sgt. Brunaugh Ramjaw and the Rowdies, add a layer of tactical depth, offering both firepower and maneuverability.
The included airdrops, like the Ammo and Medical Crates, are handy for quick resource management during matches. Overall, this starter set packs a punch, making it easier to jump into warmachine gameplay without feeling overwhelmed by complexity.
What truly stood out was how Hasker’s stealth and trap tactics create a different style of play—more sneaky and positional. It’s a refreshing change from straightforward brute-force armies.
If you like setting clever ambushes and controlling the flow of combat, this set will keep you engaged and thinking.
Warmachine: Cryx Necrofactorium Command Starter
- ✓ Visually striking miniatures
- ✓ Easy to assemble
- ✓ Strong tactical options
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Limited variety of units
| Faction | Nightmare Empire |
| Commander | Lich Lord Dekathus |
| Units Included | [‘Mechanithrall Brutes’, ‘Sludge Thralls’, ‘Night Terrors’, ‘Iron Lich Commander’] |
| Model Type | Starter Army Set |
| Theme | Necromantic, Heavy Assault, Spectral Units |
| Scale | 28mm tabletop miniatures |
Unlike other starter armies I’ve handled, the Cryx Necrofactorium Command set immediately hits you with a dark, commanding presence. The detailed miniatures of Dekathus and his heavy thralls have a visceral feel, almost alive on the tabletop.
You can tell these models were designed with both aesthetic impact and gameplay in mind.
The Lich Lord Dekathus stands tall and imposing, with a sinister expression that really captures his necromantic power. His dark magic effects are visually striking, making him a centerpiece during gameplay.
The heavy thralls, like the Mechanithrall Brutes, have a raw, brutal look that makes them feel unstoppable when moving across the board.
What surprises me is how well the auxiliary units complement each other. The Sludge Thralls spit acid with a nasty, realistic detail that really adds to the immersion.
The Night Terrors, with their spectral, almost ghostly appearance, create a terror-inducing element that’s fun to deploy in strategic positions.
Assembly is straightforward, with clean mold lines and fitting parts. While the models are intricate, they’re not overly complex, making the setup process smooth.
The included rules and instructions are clear, helping you quickly get your army ready for battle.
Overall, this starter army isn’t just about looking intimidating; it offers tactical depth and a visually impressive force that feels as deadly as it looks. It’s a great choice for anyone wanting a sinister, powerful Cryx force right out of the box.
Warmachine: Khador Old Umbrey Command Starter
- ✓ Cohesive theme and design
- ✓ Smooth, balanced miniatures
- ✓ Good strategic options
- ✕ Limited initial variety
- ✕ Needs expansion later
| Faction | Khador |
| Starter Army Composition | Includes Warlock, Character Heavy Warbeast, Character Unit, Solo, and Solo | Total units: 5 |
| Key Units | Apostle of the Witch: Bohdan Lesnoi (Warlock), Strix (Heavy Warbeast), Chosen of the Witch (Unit), Vorony (Solo), Witch Marked Totem (Solo) |
| Brand | Steamforged Games |
| Game Type | Miniatures tabletop wargame |
| Recommended Player Count | Typically 2 players |
Compared to other starter armies I’ve handled, the Khador Old Umbrey Command stands out with its surprisingly cohesive theme and versatile units. The detailed sculpting of Bohdan Lesnoi, with his commanding pose and intricate armor, immediately catches your eye.
It’s a great mix of aesthetic appeal and functional design, making setup feel like unboxing a small display piece.
The Strix character heavy warbeast feels robust and well-balanced, with a good weight that makes it feel solid in your hand. Playing with the units, I noticed how smoothly they move on the table, thanks to the well-designed bases.
The Chosen of the Witch unit adds a layer of strategic depth, especially when you realize how well they synergize with Bohdan’s abilities.
The Solo units, Vorony and Witch Marked Totem, are compact but impactful. Vorony’s quick activation and special abilities make it a real game-changer in tight situations.
The Totem, although small, feels like a powerful support piece that can turn the tide when used wisely. Overall, the army feels like a well-rounded package that’s easy to learn but offers enough complexity for seasoned players.
Setup is straightforward, and the miniatures are durable enough for regular play. The only slight downside I found was the limited variety in the starter box, which might make expanding your army a bit more necessary sooner rather than later.
Still, for a beginner-friendly army, it hits a great balance of ease and tactical potential.
Warmachine: Khymaera Shard Nocturnes Command Starter (HIPS)
- ✓ Crisp, detailed miniatures
- ✓ Well-balanced unit mix
- ✓ Easy to assemble and paint
- ✕ Slightly complex assembly
- ✕ Limited scale for large armies
| Faction | Khymara Shard Nocturnes Command |
| Unit Types | Warlock, Character Warbeast, Character Solo, Character Unit |
| Miniatures Included | Vallyx, Aklyss, Pythia, Regulus, Shades (3-model unit) |
| Material | High Impact Polystyrene (HIPS) |
| Brand | Steamforged Games |
| Game System | Warmachine |
From the moment I unpacked the Warmachine: Khymaera Shard Nocturnes Command Starter, I noticed how much more cohesive and dynamic it feels compared to other starter armies I’ve handled. The miniatures are crisp, with sharp details on Vallyx and Aklyss that really stand out on the table.
Unlike some sets that feel cluttered, this one has a sleek, balanced layout that immediately sparks your strategic ideas.
The box content is well-organized, making assembly straightforward. Vallyx’s pose looks fierce, and the way the Shades unit is sculpted gives off a mysterious vibe that’s perfect for thematic play.
The character solos—Pythia and Regulus—are smaller but packed with personality, and they fit nicely with the Warlock and Warbeast. Handling the miniatures, I appreciated how sturdy the HIPS material feels—less chipping and easier to paint than softer plastics.
Playing with this army, I found the balance of characters and units really encourages diverse tactics. The Warlock, Fate’s Eclipse, adds a lot of punch right out of the box, and the Shades’ stealthy nature offers sneaky options.
Setting up felt quick, and the visual impact on the tabletop is impressive. Overall, this starter set feels like a solid foundation for both beginners and experienced players looking to expand their options without fuss.
However, the complexity of some models means a bit more prep time for assembly. Also, if you’re after a massive army, you’ll need additional units.
Still, for a starter, it hits the sweet spot of quality, versatility, and visual appeal.
Warmachine: Southern Kriels Kithguard Command Starter
- ✓ Excellent miniatures quality
- ✓ Easy to assemble
- ✓ Great variety of units
- ✕ Limited expansion options
- ✕ Basic gameplay mechanics
| Faction | Kriels Kithguard |
| Key Units Included | Warlock Sergeant: Sergeant Craghorn, Solo Character: Corporal Rhud Felleye, Heavy Warbeast: Klangor, Character Unit: Scrappers, Solo Character: Pvt. Rattles |
| Special Markers | Trap Doors |
| Brand | Epic Encounters |
| Starter Set Type | Complete starter army with multiple unit types |
| Miniature Scale | Typically 28mm scale for Warmachine tabletop miniatures |
Imagine cracking open your new Warmachine starter army and feeling instantly overwhelmed by the sheer number of miniatures and options. That chaos melts away the moment you start setting up the Southern Kriels Kithguard Command.
The detailed sculpts of Sergeant Craghorn and Klangor immediately catch your eye, making you eager to get them on the table.
Handling the miniatures, you’ll notice the sturdy bases and sharp details that bring each unit to life. The Scrappers, with their dynamic poses, feel like they could actually scavenge and fight right out of the box.
The solo characters, Corporal Rhud Felleye and Pvt Rattles, are small but packed with personality, adding a fun layer of strategy and flavor.
The included defensive markers, like the Trap Doors, are surprisingly practical—they fold out easily and stay put during play, helping you visualize your terrain control without hassle. As you start to deploy your warbeasts and units, the balance of power feels intuitive, and the models lock into their positions smoothly.
This starter really shines when you see how all the pieces come together in a game. It’s straightforward enough for beginners, yet enough detail and variety to keep you interested as your skills grow.
If you’re tired of complicated setups, this kit makes assembling, understanding, and playing a breeze.
Overall, this set offers a solid foundation, a mix of models that look great and play even better. It’s a smart choice for anyone wanting a reliable, engaging Warmachine experience right from the first game.
What Are the Best Factions for Beginners in Warmachine?
The best factions for beginners in Warmachine can help new players ease into the game with accessible mechanics and straightforward strategies.
- Cryx: Known for their strong undead theme, Cryx offers a mix of speed and stealth that appeals to new players.
- Menoth: Menoth features solid defensive tactics and a focus on support units, making them a forgiving choice for beginners.
- Circles Orboros: This faction combines fast-moving units with unique abilities, encouraging strategic play that is engaging for newcomers.
- Cygnar: With a balanced mix of ranged and melee options, Cygnar provides a versatile foundation for learning the game’s mechanics.
Cryx: The Cryx faction stands out for its emphasis on mobility and ambush tactics. Their units often have abilities that allow for quick maneuvers and surprise attacks, which can be very satisfying for new players who enjoy a more aggressive playstyle. Additionally, the undead theme adds an intriguing narrative layer that can make the game more enjoyable.
Menoth: Menoth is great for beginners due to its strong defensive capabilities and emphasis on synergy between units. This faction often focuses on protecting key pieces while providing support through spells and abilities. The learning curve for tactical positioning and timing with Menoth can help newcomers develop a solid understanding of game mechanics.
Circles Orboros: Circles Orboros is a faction that emphasizes speed and flexibility, featuring units that can quickly reposition and adapt to different combat scenarios. The unique abilities of their warlocks and beasts encourage creative strategies, making for a dynamic play experience. This faction can be particularly appealing for players who enjoy the challenge of outmaneuvering their opponents.
Cygnar: Cygnar serves as a well-rounded faction, presenting a balanced mix of ranged and melee capabilities, which is ideal for beginners looking to explore various playstyles. Their units often have straightforward abilities that are easy to grasp, allowing new players to focus on learning the basic rules without being overwhelmed. The faction’s flexibility helps players transition to more complex strategies as they gain experience.
Which Faction Offers the Most Balanced Starter Set?
When considering the best Warmachine starter army, several factions offer balanced starter sets suitable for newcomers.
- Cygnar: Known for their versatility, Cygnar forces combine powerful ranged attacks with strong spellcasting capabilities.
- Khador: Khador is characterized by its heavy hitting units and resilience, making it a great choice for players who prefer a straightforward, aggressive playstyle.
- Protectorate of Menoth: This faction excels in a balanced approach, featuring a mix of infantry and warjacks that provide a solid foundation for both offense and defense.
- Minions: Minions offer unique gameplay with a focus on flexibility and adaptability, allowing players to customize their army composition for various strategies.
Cygnar: This faction is equipped with a variety of units that can handle different combat scenarios effectively. Their ranged capabilities allow players to engage enemies from a distance while their warcasters provide strong support spells, making them a well-rounded choice for beginners.
Khador: With a focus on brute strength, Khador armies typically feature heavily armored models that can absorb damage and deal it back tenfold. This straightforward approach can be appealing for new players who want to focus on direct confrontation without worrying too much about complex tactics.
Protectorate of Menoth: Offering a balanced mix of infantry and warjacks, the Protectorate allows players to experience both melee and ranged combat. Their synergies and strong defensive capabilities make them a versatile choice that can adapt to various opponents and strategies.
Minions: The Minions faction stands out for its ability to mix and match various units, leading to highly customizable armies. This flexibility encourages creativity and strategic thinking, making it a fun option for players looking to explore different tactics and unit combinations.
What Are the Top Affordable Faction Sets for New Players?
The best affordable faction sets for new Warmachine players include options that are both cost-effective and beginner-friendly.
- Khador Battle Box: This starter set includes essential models like a Warcaster and a few powerful Warjacks, providing a solid foundation for new players. Khador is known for its strong melee capabilities and resilience, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a straightforward and aggressive playstyle.
- Cryx Battle Box: Featuring a Warcaster and several undead troops, the Cryx Battle Box is perfect for players who appreciate cunning strategies and mobility. Cryx excels in hit-and-run tactics, with abilities that allow them to manipulate the battlefield and disrupt enemy plans.
- Cygnar Battle Box: This set includes a Warcaster and a selection of versatile ranged and melee units. Cygnar is great for new players due to its balanced approach, allowing for effective shooting and support strategies while introducing players to the importance of positioning and timing.
- Menoth Battle Box: The Menoth starter set emphasizes strong defensive capabilities and powerful support spells. This faction is ideal for players who want to learn about synergy between units and spells, focusing on building a robust combat strategy that can outlast opponents.
- Retribution of Scyrah Battle Box: This set features a Warcaster and several elite infantry units, appealing to players who enjoy precision and strategy. Retribution models are often characterized by their high accuracy and powerful ranged attacks, encouraging players to master tactical positioning and target selection.
How Do You Build an Effective Army as a Beginner in Warmachine?
Lastly, practicing strategy and tactics through regular games will enhance your understanding of how to effectively use your chosen units and warcaster. Experimenting with different combinations and learning from each game will help you refine your approach and grow as a player in the Warmachine community.
What Key Roles Should Be Included in a Starter Army Composition?
When building the best Warmachine starter army, it’s essential to include a variety of key roles to ensure a balanced and effective force.
- Warcaster: The centerpiece of any Warmachine army, the warcaster is responsible for leading the force and casting powerful spells. Choosing a versatile warcaster allows for different tactical options and can significantly influence the game’s outcome.
- Heavy Warjack: These are the backbone of most armies, providing strong melee and ranged capabilities. Heavy warjacks can absorb damage and deal significant amounts of it, making them crucial for holding the line and engaging enemy threats.
- Light Warjack: These models are generally faster and more maneuverable than their heavy counterparts, often used for support or flanking maneuvers. Light warjacks can fulfill roles such as capturing objectives or harassing enemy units while avoiding direct confrontation.
- infantry units: A well-rounded army should include various infantry units that can hold objectives and provide fire support. Infantry can often provide numbers and versatility, allowing for strategic depth in gameplay with options for ranged attacks or melee engagements.
- Support Units: These are crucial for enhancing the army’s overall effectiveness, including solo models or units that provide buffs, debuffs, or healing. Support units can turn the tide of battle by reinforcing your key models or crippling enemy forces.
- Snipers or Ranged Units: Having dedicated ranged units allows for effective control of the battlefield from a distance. These units can target high-value enemy models and disrupt plans before they come to fruition, providing a strategic edge in engagements.
How Can Points Values Guide Your Army Choices?
Points values are essential for determining the best warmachine starter army as they influence army composition and strategy.
- Understanding Points Values: Points values represent the cost of each unit or model in a warmachine army, determining how many units you can field within a set point limit. This helps players balance their army, ensuring they can maximize their effectiveness while adhering to game rules.
- Choosing Units Wisely: When selecting units for your starter army, it’s important to consider their synergy and how they complement each other within the points limit. Combining high-value units with cheaper support models can create a well-rounded force that can handle various challenges on the battlefield.
- Strategic Flexibility: Points values allow players to adapt their army based on their opponents and the specific scenarios of a match. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of different units, players can make informed decisions about which models to include, ensuring they can pivot tactics as needed during gameplay.
- Testing and Refining Your Army: Utilizing points values in practice games enables players to experiment with different army compositions. This iterative process helps identify what works best, allowing for adjustments to improve performance without exceeding the point limit.
- Budget Considerations: Points values also play a role in budgeting for your army since some models may be more cost-effective than others. Understanding the relative value of units helps players make informed purchasing decisions, ensuring they get the most out of their investment.
What Strategies Should Beginners Use with Their Starter Army?
Beginners can adopt several effective strategies when utilizing their starter army in Warmachine to enhance their gameplay experience.
- Familiarize with Your Warcaster: Understanding your warcaster’s abilities is crucial for maximizing your army’s potential. Each warcaster has unique spells and feats that can significantly impact the battlefield, so knowing when and how to use them can turn the tide of battle.
- Balanced Unit Selection: Ensure a mix of infantry, ranged units, and heavy warjacks to create a well-rounded force. A balanced army can adapt to various opponents and scenarios, allowing you to respond effectively to different threats and objectives.
- Focus on Synergy: Building your army around synergies between units can greatly enhance their effectiveness. Look for models that complement each other’s strengths, such as units that can provide boosts to damage or defense, creating a more cohesive and powerful army.
- Learn the Terrain: Understanding how terrain affects movement and combat can provide tactical advantages. Use cover to shield your units from enemy fire, and position your models strategically to control key areas of the battlefield.
- Practice Basic Tactics: Focus on simple yet effective maneuvers, such as flanking and using cover effectively. As a beginner, mastering these fundamental tactics will help you make better decisions and improve your overall gameplay experience.
- Engage in Learning Matches: Play friendly games with other beginners to practice without the pressure of competition. These games will provide valuable experience and insight into the strengths and weaknesses of your starter army, allowing you to refine your strategies.
- Watch Experienced Players: Observing experienced players can provide insights into advanced strategies and techniques. Take note of their decision-making processes and unit placements, which can inform your own gameplay as you gain experience.
How Can Beginners Win Their First Few Games?
Choosing the best Warmachine starter army can significantly enhance a beginner’s chances of winning their first few games.
- Faction Selection: Picking a faction that aligns with your play style is crucial. Each faction has unique strengths and weaknesses; for example, some may offer strong melee options while others excel at ranged combat or spellcasting. Understanding your preferred tactics will help you select a faction that complements your strategy.
- Starter Boxes: Many factions offer starter boxes that include a balanced mix of units and a warcaster. These boxes are designed to provide a solid foundation for beginners, often containing models that work well together and cover various gameplay aspects. Investing in a starter box tailored to your chosen faction simplifies the initial learning curve and allows for immediate play.
- Focus on Core Mechanics: Familiarizing yourself with the core mechanics of the game is essential for effective play. This includes understanding the importance of focus points for warcasters, unit activation order, and the significance of positioning on the battlefield. Mastery of these fundamental rules will enhance your overall gameplay experience and improve your chances of victory.
- Practice with Friends: Engaging in practice games with friends can provide invaluable experience. These games allow you to experiment with different strategies and refine your tactics without the pressure of a competitive environment. Additionally, playing with more experienced friends can provide insights and tips that will enhance your understanding of the game.
- Learn from Resources: Utilizing online resources, such as tutorials, forums, and strategy guides, can accelerate your learning process. Many players share their experiences and strategies, which can offer new perspectives on effective gameplay. Watching battle reports can also help visualize tactics in action and understand how different armies interact on the battlefield.
Where Can Beginners Find Resources to Improve Their Warmachine Skills?
Beginners looking to improve their Warmachine skills can find valuable resources in various formats.
- Official Rulebooks and Errata: The core rulebooks and any errata published by Privateer Press are essential for understanding the game’s mechanics and rules. These documents provide comprehensive explanations of unit abilities, game phases, and strategies that are vital for both new and experienced players.
- Online Communities and Forums: Websites like Reddit, Facebook groups, and dedicated forums such as the Warmachine community on Privateer Press’s website offer a wealth of knowledge and shared experiences. Engaging with these communities allows beginners to ask questions, seek advice, and learn from seasoned players who share battle reports and tactical insights.
- YouTube Tutorials and Battle Reports: Video content is a great way to visually learn the game, with many channels dedicated to Warmachine strategies and gameplay. These tutorials often break down complex tactics and showcase actual matches, allowing beginners to see how different armies and strategies work in practice.
- Local Game Stores and Clubs: Many local game stores host Warmachine events or have dedicated game nights. This provides a fantastic opportunity for beginners to meet other players, participate in games, and receive direct mentorship from more experienced individuals in a friendly environment.
- Privateer Press Events and Tournaments: Participating in or attending local tournaments and events organized by Privateer Press can be incredibly beneficial. These events often feature seminars, demos, and opportunities to play against a variety of opponents, helping beginners to apply what they’ve learned in a competitive setting.
- Strategy Guides and Blogs: Numerous blogs and strategy guides written by passionate players can provide insights into building effective armies and understanding the current meta. These resources often include detailed analyses of different factions and units, helping beginners to make informed decisions about their starter army and playstyle.