Total War: Warhammer

Total War: Warhammer is a single-player and multiplayer turn-based strategy and real-time tactics game. The game is set in the Warhammer universe, where rival factions compete for power, territory, and survival. The player assumes the role of a legendary lord who leads one of several races, each with its own culture, armies, and ambitions. Campaign objectives vary depending on faction, ranging from conquest and unification to the defense of ancient realms, but all are framed within the larger struggle for dominance over the Old World.

As in other Total War titles, gameplay is divided between two layers. On the campaign map, the player manages cities, armies, and diplomatic relations in a turn-based structure. Settlements can be captured, expanded, or razed, with buildings unlocking new units, technologies, and economic benefits. Armies must be recruited, maintained, and moved strategically, while political decisions and alliances influence the overall direction of the campaign.

Real-time battles occur when armies clash. Players directly command units on large maps, issuing movement, attack, and ability orders. Armies consist of infantry, cavalry, ranged troops, artillery, and in this installment, fantastical units such as flying monsters, spellcasters, and war machines. Unit morale, terrain, and flanking play significant roles, and victory often requires careful coordination of different troop types. Legendary lords and heroes act as powerful individual units, bringing unique abilities, equipment, and magical spells to the battlefield.

Progression is tied to both the campaign and individual characters. Lords and heroes gain experience, level up, and unlock skill trees, while equipment and magical items can further enhance their capabilities. Factions also progress through research and special mechanics: for example, Dwarfs rely on engineering and grudges, the Vampire Counts raise undead armies, and the Greenskins manage an aggression system that fuels their warlike momentum.

Diplomacy allows for treaties, trade, alliances, and manipulation of rival factions. Quests specific to legendary lords introduce unique battle scenarios and narrative elements, often rewarding artifacts or powers. Corruption and public order affect provinces, requiring management to prevent rebellion. Some races have additional campaign mechanics, such as corruption spreading through enemy territory or empire-wide unrest influencing strategy.

Multiplayer is supported through both cooperative and competitive modes. Players can engage in custom battles against each other, or pursue long-term cooperative or versus campaigns where diplomatic and military decisions directly influence both sides.