Position:home  

Only War RPG: A Comprehensive Guide to the Grimdark Universes of Warhammer 40,000

Introduction

Only War RPG is a tabletop role-playing game set in the grim, unforgiving universe of Warhammer 40,000. Published by Fantasy Flight Games in 2009, it invites players to experience the brutal realities of interstellar warfare as members of the Imperial Guard, the vast and expendable army of the Imperium of Man.

The World of Only War

Warhammer 40,000 is a sprawling science fiction universe spanning thousands of years and countless worlds. The Imperium of Man, a tyrannical regime ruled by the all-powerful God-Emperor, wages an eternal war against a myriad of threats to its survival. These include alien hordes, treacherous mutants, and heretical cultists.

In this setting, the Imperial Guard is the frontline force of the Imperium. Its billions of soldiers are conscripted from across the galaxy, from civilized worlds to backwater planets. They fight with unwavering loyalty despite facing almost certain death.

only war rpg

Character Creation

Players create characters in Only War using a point-based system. Each character starts with a pool of points to allocate among various attributes, skills, and equipment. These attributes include:

Only War RPG: A Comprehensive Guide to the Grimdark Universes of Warhammer 40,000

  • Strength
  • Toughness
  • Agility
  • Intelligence
  • Willpower
  • Fellowship

Skills encompass a wide range of abilities, from combat prowess to stealth and leadership. Players can choose from a vast list of equipment, including weapons, armor, and gear.

Gameplay

Only War gameplay consists of a series of sessions, each representing a mission or encounter. Players describe their characters' actions and interact with the game master, who controls the narrative and challenges the players.

Introduction

The combat system emphasizes tactical decision-making. Attacks are resolved using a dice pool system, with modifiers based on factors such as weapon accuracy and character skills. Wounds are tracked using a hit point system, and characters can be injured, incapacitated, or killed.

Regiments and Specialties

One of the unique features of Only War is the inclusion of regiments and specialties. Regiments represent the vast diversity of the Imperial Guard, each with its own traditions, equipment, and strengths. Players can choose from a wide range of regiments, including:

  • Cadian Shock Troops
  • Catachan Jungle Fighters
  • Krieg Death Korps

Specialties allow characters to further specialize in specific roles within the Guard. These include:

  • Commissar: Enforce Imperial discipline and inspire troops.
  • Medic: Heal wounds and treat injuries.
  • Sergeant: Lead squads and issue orders.

Key Features

Only War offers several key features that set it apart from other tabletop RPGs:

  • Immersive Setting: Players are transported into the brutal and unforgiving universe of Warhammer 40,000.
  • Customizable Characters: The point-based creation system allows players to create unique and diverse characters.
  • Tactical Combat: The combat system emphasizes strategic decision-making and realistic outcomes.
  • Regiments and Specialties: The inclusion of regiments and specialties adds depth and diversity to the gameplay.
  • Grimdark Atmosphere: Only War captures the essence of the Warhammer 40,000 universe, with its themes of war, sacrifice, and the indomitable spirit of humanity.

Supplements and Expansions

Over the years, Fantasy Flight Games has released numerous supplements and expansions for Only War, expanding the game's setting, adding new content, and refining the rules. These include:

  • The Lathe Worlds: A campaign book exploring a region of the galaxy where time and reality are twisted.
  • The Siege of Vraks: A narrative campaign focused on a major conflict in the Warhammer 40,000 universe.
  • Deathwatch: Overkill: A supplement that allows players to create characters from the elite Deathwatch marines.

Community and Impact

Only War has amassed a dedicated community of fans and players. It has received critical acclaim for its immersive setting, tactical combat, and unique features. The game has inspired countless stories, fan art, and online discussions.

Conclusion

Only War RPG is a must-play for fans of Warhammer 40,000 and tabletop RPG enthusiasts alike. It offers a thrilling and immersive experience that captures the essence of the grimdark universe while providing players with endless possibilities for customization and storytelling.

Useful Tables

Table 1: Imperial Guard Regiments

Regiment Description
Cadian Shock Troops Elite troops from the planet Cadia, renowned for their discipline and courage.
Catachan Jungle Fighters Guerrilla warfare experts from the feral world of Catachan, skilled in survival and combat in dense vegetation.
Krieg Death Korps Fanatical soldiers from the death world of Krieg, known for their unwavering loyalty and willingness to sacrifice themselves.
Elysian Drop Troops Airborne shock troops capable of deploying behind enemy lines and conducting surgical strikes.

Table 2: Specialties

Specialty Description
Commissar Enforces discipline, inspires troops, and executes traitors.
Medic Heals wounds, prevents disease, and assists in combat situations.
Sergeant Leads squads of soldiers, issues orders, and makes tactical decisions.
Heavy Weapons Specialist Operates and fires heavy weapons such as autocannons, missile launchers, and mortars.

Table 3: Combat Maneuvers

Maneuver Description
Fire Make an attack with a ranged weapon.
Assault Engage in close combat with a melee weapon.
Move Move a certain distance in a specific direction.
Aid Assist another character in combat or other tasks.
Overwatch Prepare to fire a ranged attack at an enemy that enters a designated area.

Table 4: Equipment

Item Description
Lasgun The standard infantry weapon of the Imperial Guard, firing powerful laser beams.
Bayonet A melee weapon attached to the Lasgun for close-quarters combat.
Frag Grenade A small explosive weapon that can be thrown or placed as a trap.
Carapace Armor Heavy armor that provides protection against ranged attacks.
Respirator A device that protects the wearer from toxic environments and chemical warfare.
Time:2024-12-19 19:19:45 UTC

aregames   

TOP 10
Related Posts
Don't miss