Total War: Warhammer 40k Hands-On Preview Reveals New WarCore Engine and Combat Changes
Total War: Warhammer 40k is officially on the horizon, bringing the long-running strategy franchise far into the 41st Millennium, according to a hands-on preview published by IGN contributor Scott White. During a recent event, players got an early look at an unreleased build featuring three distinct slices: a tutorial, a campaign preview with unit customization, and a massive battle experienced through the helmets of the Space Marines.
The upcoming strategy sequel marks the first title in the franchise to utilize Creative Assembly’s new WarCore game engine, moving away from medieval melee towards a heavy focus on ranged combat. According to White, the transition means trebuchets are replaced by tanks and walking mechs, introducing gameplay mechanics like strafe-firing, suppressing enemies, and calling down orbital drop pods without any on-screen ammo bars.
Campaign Features, Customization, and Tactical Depth
The previewed campaign slice tasked players with retaking the Thetha-Citadel Astropathic Relay Station from an Ork invasion force dominating both the ground and orbit. According to White, the overworld map features planets orbiting a blood-red star alongside a looming Chaos Gate, though these elements were not interactive in the early build.
Unit customization makes its debut in the tactical series, allowing players to adjust base, accent, and detail colors on Space Marine armor using official Games Workshop paint colors like Caledor Sky, Screamer Pink, and Mournfang Brown. While current customization options remain somewhat bare-bones, players can select custom chapter names and emblems.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Total War: Warhammer 40k releasing?
According to IGN, Creative Assembly has not yet announced a release window for Total War: Warhammer 40k.
What game engine does Total War: Warhammer 40k use?
The strategy sequel runs on Creative Assembly’s new WarCore game engine, marking a shift toward ranged-focused tactical combat.
Can you customize units in Total War: Warhammer 40k?
Yes, early builds feature unit customization allowing players to adjust armor colors using official Games Workshop paint palettes, select custom emblems, and name their chapters.
What factions were shown in the hands-on preview?
The preview build featured Space Marines and Orks, with no official gameplay shown for the Aeldari faction yet.
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