Here are the 25 best alternatives to Warhammer 40k and Games Workshop, offering stunning miniatures, pieces, and rules for Tabletop Wargaming.

25 Best Game Alternatives to Warhammer 40k: Wargaming & Tabletop Miniatures

So, you’ve painted your last Space Marine and can recite the entire Codex Astartes in your sleep, but maybe you’re starting to feel that the grim darkness of the far future could use a little variety. Or perhaps you’re just curious about what else is out there in the vast cosmos of tabletop gaming. Either way, we’ve got a lineup of the best alternative games and pieces to Warhammer that promise epic battles, solid rules, and some seriously cool miniatures for tabletop wargaming.

This isn’t just about finding something different—it’s about finding something that scratches that same itch in a whole new way. From the bustling streets of Marvel’s New York to the war-torn realms of distant galaxies, these best alternative games to Warhammer offer new settings, fresh mechanics, new pieces, and endless opportunities to roll dice, strategize, and maybe even pull off a legendary move or two.

Marvel Crisis Protocol: Superheroes at Your Fingertips

Gathering Earth’s mightiest heroes—or the most notorious villains—into a team of your own design. That’s the essence of Marvel Crisis Protocol. This game takes the larger-than-life personalities of the Marvel Universe (and bigger than Warhammer pieces) and condenses them into high-quality miniatures that you control and then throw down for some tabletop wargaming. Whether you’re deploying Captain America to shield your team or sending Loki to wreak havoc on the battlefield, every game feels like a page out of a comic book.

The gameplay is fast-paced and intuitive, with rules that are easy to grasp but offer plenty of depth for tactical maneuvering. Each match can range from quick skirmishes to longer, more drawn-out conflicts, making it adaptable for any game night.

The real charm of Marvel Crisis Protocol lies in its blend of strategy and fan service. The scenarios let you recreate iconic moments from the Marvel universe or invent your own epic showdowns. The game’s mechanics are built around the unique abilities of each character, ensuring that every hero and villain feels true to their comic book counterparts. Plus, the constant release of new characters and expansions means there’s always fresh content to keep things interesting. Whether you’re a newcomer who’s just getting into the Marvel world or a seasoned fan with a shelf full of comics, Marvel Crisis Protocol offers a tabletop experience that’s both engaging and endlessly replayable.

If you want to learn more about the game and minis, check out the site here.

Last update on 2024-11-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Best Alternative Games to Warhammer- Bolt Action: History Meets Strategy

Bolt Action brings the theater of World War II right to your tabletop, where you can command troops, tanks, and artillery in epic battles. The game is designed to offer a perfect balance between historical authenticity and strategic gameplay, making it a standout choice for anyone with an interest in military history (and not as heroic as Warhammer pieces). With Bolt Action, you’re not just moving miniatures; you’re reliving pivotal moments of history, from the beaches of Normandy to the streets of Stalingrad, a true tabletop wargaming experience. The rules are accessible enough for new players but have enough depth to satisfy those who enjoy complex tactical decisions. Each game is an opportunity to test your strategic prowess in scenarios that can range from small skirmishes to large-scale engagements.

What really sets Bolt Action apart is its attention to detail. The miniatures are meticulously crafted to reflect the uniforms, weapons, and equipment of the era, providing an immersive tabletop wargaming experience for history buffs. The game also supports a wide range of armies, allowing players to choose from various factions like the United States, Germany, the Soviet Union, and more. This variety not only enriches the gameplay but also allows for a personalized approach to building and commanding your forces. Whether you’re a newcomer intrigued by history or a seasoned wargamer looking for a new challenge, Bolt Action offers a rich, strategic experience that brings the past to life. Find out more about the game here.

Last update on 2024-11-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Best Alternative Games to Warhammer- Star Wars X-Wing & Legion: Galactic Pieces

In the Star Wars universe, the battle between the light and dark sides plays out in countless forms, and with Star Wars X-Wing and Legion, you can control the action on both ground and in space. X-Wing lets you pilot iconic starfighters like the Millennium Falcon or TIE Fighters in fast-paced dogfights where every maneuver counts. The game’s simplicity in movement and attack mechanics means you can quickly pick up the basics, but mastering it requires a keen sense of strategy and timing.

Legion, on the other hand, shifts the focus to ground warfare, where you can lead squads of Stormtroopers, Rebel soldiers, and even iconic characters like Darth Vader and Luke Skywalker in epic land battles. This has a more similar feel to Warhammer but with less pieces on the tabletop.

Last update on 2024-11-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Both games are rich with thematic elements that capture the spirit of Star Wars. In X-Wing, you’ll find that the unique pilot abilities and upgrade cards bring out the flavor of the franchise, making each battle feel like a cinematic showdown. Legion amplifies this with immersive scenarios that let you recreate famous battles or invent your own. The miniatures are detailed and true to the Star Wars aesthetic, offering a visual treat for fans on the tabletop, wargaming, in-game, or just on the shelves. Whether you’re aiming for victory in the cold vacuum of space or on the war-torn fields of a distant planet, these games deliver a Star Wars experience that is both thrilling and deeply satisfying for players of all levels.

Last update on 2024-11-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Check out more about those games here.

Star Wars Shatterpoint

Shatterpoint is like jumping into the deep end of the galaxy’s most chaotic pool party, where everyone’s bringing lightsabers and blasters instead of snacks. Set in the heart of the Star Wars universe, this miniatures skirmish game throws players into high-stakes wargaming battles where iconic heroes and villains clash in epic, cinematic fashion. Imagine Mace Windu squaring off against General Grievous on a crumbling rooftop while droids and clones brawl below—it’s that kind of wild.

The gameplay is as strategic as a Jedi Master’s meditation, but with just enough unpredictability to keep things spicy. Players assemble squads of beloved characters, each with unique abilities that can turn the tide of battle faster than Han Solo can shoot first. It’s a game of careful planning and quick thinking, where a well-timed move might shatter the enemy’s plans—hence the name. Plus, the pieces and minis are bigger than Warhammer, making it a fun painting challenge.

With beautifully detailed miniatures, game rules, and scenarios ripped straight from your favorite Star Wars moments, “Shatterpoint” is perfect for fans who want to feel the thrill of a galactic wargaming showdown without leaving their living room. So, grab your lightsaber, choose your side, and get ready to dive headfirst into the most epic battle of wits and willpower this side of the Outer Rim. Find out more about the game here!

Last update on 2024-11-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Infinity: Tactical Precision in a Sci-Fi Setting

In the high-tech, futuristic world of Infinity, warfare is not just about brute strength; it’s about precision, strategy, and outsmarting your opponent. This game is set in a richly detailed sci-fi universe where advanced technology and elite soldiers dominate the battlefield. The gameplay focuses on small skirmishes, where every move counts, and the key to victory often lies in using the right tactics at the right time. Infinity’s rules are designed to reward tactical depth, with mechanics that encourage players to think several steps ahead. Whether you’re positioning your snipers on high ground or using cloaked operatives to outflank your enemy, the game offers a highly strategic experience.

Infinity is also known for its striking tabletop wargaming miniatures, which are crafted with incredible detail and flair, bringing the game’s futuristic factions to life. Some would even say they have better pieces and minis than Warhammer. The world-building is equally impressive, with a rich backstory that adds layers of context to each battle. The latest edition of the game has made it even more accessible to newcomers while retaining the complexity that seasoned players love. With a passionate community and regular updates, Infinity offers a gaming experience that is both challenging and visually stunning, making it a standout choice for those who enjoy sci-fi themes and intricate tactical gameplay. Check out more about Infinity here.

Last update on 2024-11-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Best Alternative Games to Warhammer- Gaslands: Mayhem on Wheels

Gaslands takes the idea of post-apocalyptic combat and straps it to the hood of a heavily armed muscle car. In this game, you’re not just a commander; you’re a road warrior, customizing your vehicles with everything from machine guns to rocket launchers and taking to the battlefield in a chaotic, high-speed demolition derby. The beauty of Gaslands lies in its flexibility; the game encourages you to use any toy cars you have lying around, transforming them into Mad Max-style death machines with a bit of creativity and some spare parts. You can use Warhammer minis, random pieces from the ground, and anything you can think of to play! The rules are fast and furious, perfectly suited to the game’s theme of vehicular mayhem, making it easy to squeeze in several high-octane games in an afternoon.

Beyond the raw action, Gaslands also offers a deeply engaging hobby aspect. Since the game encourages customization, you can spend hours crafting and painting your dream death racer, adding spikes, armor, and whatever else your imagination can conjure. The community around Gaslands is incredibly creative, with players sharing their custom vehicles and scenarios, which keeps the game feeling fresh and vibrant. Whether you’re a fan of fast-paced action, creative hobby projects, or just want to let loose and cause some chaos, Gaslands delivers a unique and exhilarating experience that’s as much about creativity as it is about crushing your opponents. Check out more about Gaslands here.

Last update on 2024-11-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Blood & Plunder: Pirates and Privateers

Set in the golden age of piracy, Blood & Plunder brings the swashbuckling world of pirates, privateers, and colonial powers to your tabletop. The game is unique in that it seamlessly combines both naval and land-based combat, allowing you to wage war on the high seas or storm enemy fortresses on tropical islands. The miniatures are exquisitely detailed, capturing the rough-and-tumble aesthetic of the era, from the broad sails of a galleon to the ragtag appearance of a pirate crew; the game gives you a great wargaming and tabletop experience. Following the Warhammer route, they have also moved the minis and pieces to plastic, making them easier to collect and build. The rules are designed to reflect the fluid and unpredictable nature of 17th-century warfare, making each game an exciting blend of strategy and chance.

Blood & Plunder isn’t just about the thrill of battle; it’s also about immersion. The game’s mechanics are deeply tied to the theme, with weather effects, boarding actions, and even the treacherous nature of the sea playing a role in how each scenario unfolds. Firelock Games, the developers, have invested heavily in maintaining and expanding this world, ensuring that there’s always something new to explore, whether you’re navigating a new campaign or adding a freshly painted ship to your fleet. If you’re looking for a game that combines historical depth with cinematic flair, Blood & Plunder offers an experience that’s as rich in atmosphere as it is in strategic possibilities. You can find out lots more about them on their site here.

Last update on 2024-11-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Warmachine MK IV: Warjacks and Warlords

In the industrial, steampunk-inspired world of Warmachine MK IV, magic and machinery collide in a spectacular display of power and tactics. Players take on the role of warcasters, powerful leaders who command not just armies but also massive, steam-powered constructs known as warjacks. These towering machines are the heart of the game, each one bristling with weapons and ready to unleash destruction on the battlefield. The game emphasizes aggressive, dynamic play, where careful resource management and tactical positioning are key to outmaneuvering your opponent and claiming victory.

The new edition of Warmachine has breathed fresh life into the game, streamlining the rules while introducing a host of new units and factions (plus, you still need fewer pieces than Warhammer to play). This makes it an exciting time to get involved, whether you’re a new player or someone returning to the game. The lore of Warmachine is as rich as its gameplay, with a detailed world full of political intrigue, ancient magics, and bitter rivalries. This backdrop adds depth to every skirmish, making each battle feel like part of a larger, ongoing saga. For those who enjoy a mix of fantasy and industrial themes, with a strong emphasis on tactical gameplay, Warmachine MK IV offers a rewarding and continually evolving experience. Check out more here!

Last update on 2024-11-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

One Page Rules: Flexibility Meets Fun

For gamers who value flexibility and creativity, One Page Rules offers a refreshing approach to tabletop wargaming. This system is designed to be as accessible as possible, with rules that fit on a single page, making it easy to pick up and play. But don’t let the simplicity fool you—there’s plenty of depth here, with rulesets that cover both fantasy and sci-fi settings. What’s more, One Page Rules allows you to use any miniatures you like, giving you the freedom to mix and match from different games and manufacturers. This makes it an ideal choice for players who have a collection of miniatures from various games but want a unified wargaming and tabletop system to bring them all together.

One of the standout features of One Page Rules is its active and engaged community, which regularly contributes new content, scenarios, and even custom miniatures. The developers also release new games and expansions frequently, ensuring that the system stays fresh and exciting. Unlike Warhammer, the rules are free, and you can use whatever pieces you wish. Whether you’re a newcomer looking for an easy entry point into wargaming or a seasoned player seeking a versatile and adaptable system, One Page Rules offers a unique blend of simplicity, customization, and community-driven content that makes it a joy to play. You can get all the rules for free here!

Mantic: Firefight

Set against the backdrop of the Galactic Co-Prosperity Sphere, “Firefight” thrusts players into the heart of intense, futuristic battles on distant alien worlds and chaotic warzones of the future. This tabletop game is a wild ride of fast-paced, adrenaline-pumping action where every decision counts.

With its alternating activations and smooth, intuitive rules for movement and measurement, “Firefight” doesn’t waste any time getting to the good stuff—it’s fast, furious, and keeps you on your toes. The game’s clever Orders mechanic adds a layer of dynamic strategy, letting you issue special rules on the fly to outmaneuver your opponent in the heat of battle (plus, there are pieces of the minis that can be used as alternatives in Warhammer).

And the best part? You only need one book to dive into the action. The starter set comes with “Command Protocols,” the core rules that pack everything you need: 12 missions, army lists for all factions, and all the rules in one tidy package. It’s all about jumping straight into the epic conflicts of tomorrow without any fuss—just grab your miniatures and get ready for some serious sci-fi warfare. (oh yeah, and they have space rats!) Check out more about the game here!

Last update on 2024-11-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Puppetswar: Community-Driven Creativity

Puppetswar is not just a game—it’s a collaborative creative project where the community plays a pivotal role. The developers have embraced a model that allows players to access the game’s rules, 3D and 2D assets, and even model downloads for free, encouraging a level of involvement that’s rare in the tabletop world. This open approach means that the game is constantly evolving, with new rules, miniatures, and scenarios being added based on player feedback. If you’ve ever wanted to be on the ground floor of a game’s development, offering ideas and seeing them come to life, Puppetswar offers that opportunity.

The game itself is a mix of strategy and creativity, where players can not only field armies but also design and customize their own units. The freedom to 3D print your own miniatures adds another layer of personal investment, as you can bring your unique vision to the battlefield (plus, there are pieces of the 3d prints that can be used as alternatives in Warhammer). The community aspect of Puppetswar is vibrant, with players sharing their creations and collaborating on new content. Whether you’re drawn to the strategic gameplay or the creative possibilities, Puppetswar provides a platform where your ideas can flourish and contribute to the game’s ongoing development. Check out more here!

D&D Onslaught: Roleplay Meets Strategy

D&D Onslaught is where the rich storytelling of Dungeons & Dragons meets the tactical challenges of a skirmish game. In this hybrid experience, players control iconic D&D characters in battles that require both strategic acumen and a deep understanding of the characters’ abilities. Each hero comes with a set of unique skills and spells, allowing for a variety of tactics depending on the situation. The game’s scenarios are inspired by classic D&D adventures, giving players the chance to engage in combat that feels both familiar and fresh, whether you’re slaying monsters or facing off against rival adventurers.

What sets D&D Onslaught apart is how it integrates the narrative elements of role-playing games with the structure of a tactical miniatures tabletop game. The battles aren’t just about who has the best strategy; they’re also about who can leverage their character’s story and abilities to turn the tide. For D&D fans, it’s a chance to experience the world they love in a new way, combining the thrill of combat with the depth of character-driven storytelling. Whether you’re a veteran of many campaigns or new to the world of Dungeons & Dragons, D&D Onslaught offers an engaging and strategic way to enjoy the fantasy universe in a new light. Check out more here!

Last update on 2024-11-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Best Alternative Games to Warhammer: Battletech

From its humble beginnings as a tabletop board game, “BattleTech” has grown into a sprawling universe that has captivated fans for nearly four decades. What started as a game of giant, stomping war machines blasting each other to pieces has evolved into a rich tapestry of interstellar politics, epic battles, and a whole lot of mech-fueled mayhem.

At its core, “BattleTech” is all about the clash of titanic machines known as BattleMechs, piloted by warriors who settle disputes the old-fashioned way—by blowing stuff up. But it’s not just about the big guns and bigger explosions. The game has always offered a deep, strategic experience where every move can tip the scales of war. With detailed rules that make you feel like a tactical genius (or at least a hopeful one), “BattleTech” has kept players coming back for more mech-on-mech action year after year. Find out more about the game here!

Last update on 2024-11-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Malifaux: A World of Weird and Wonderful

Step into the strange, twisted world of Malifaux, where Victorian horror, steampunk, and dark fantasy collide in a game that’s as much about storytelling as it is about strategy. Malifaux is set in an alternate Earth, where magic is real, and strange creatures roam the land. The game’s factions are as diverse as they are bizarre, from necromancers raising the dead to gun-slinging outlaws and eerie puppets brought to life by dark magic. The card-based mechanics replace dice, adding a unique twist that makes every action a calculated risk. This system not only adds depth to the gameplay but also ties into the game’s dark, unpredictable world.

The miniatures in Malifaux are nothing short of stunning, each one a work of art that reflects the game’s unique aesthetic. The models are intricate and often depict strange, unsettling creatures that perfectly capture the eerie atmosphere of the game. But it’s not just about looks—Malifaux’s gameplay is equally distinctive, with mechanics that encourage clever use of resources and strategic planning. The game’s lore is richly developed, offering players a world that’s both fascinating and terrifying, filled with stories waiting to be told. Whether you’re drawn to its unique setting, its deep wargaming gameplay, or its gorgeous miniatures, Malifaux offers an experience that’s unlike anything else on the tabletop. Find out more about the game here!

Last update on 2024-11-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Best Alternative Games to Warhammer: Mantic Kings of War

If you love square bases, you’ll love Kings of War! It’s like stepping into the middle of an all-out fantasy brawl where armies clash, magic flies, and tactics rule the day. Imagine an epic fantasy battlefield filled with towering orcs, disciplined dwarves, and fireball-flinging wizards, all colliding in a contest of wit and warfare. It’s a game where mass combat feels smooth, fast, and, dare we say, refreshingly straightforward—none of that rulebook-flipping every five seconds nonsense.

The beauty of Kings of War is in its simplicity. It’s all about big units of troops marching in formation and smashing into each other—no getting bogged down with individual figures poking at each other here. It’s grand, it’s epic, and it’s designed to keep the game flowing like a rampaging herd of ogres. Plus, it’s got a whole buffet of fantasy races to choose from, whether you’re into the noble humans, vicious undead, or anything in between.

The real charm, though, is in how much freedom it gives you to just dive into the action. You can plan your strategies and unleash them in glorious, large-scale battles, but at the same time, the game doesn’t take itself too seriously. “Kings of War” is the perfect playground for both tactical masterminds and players who just want to see their dragon roast an enemy horde to a crisp. So, gather your legions, roll your dice, and get ready to conquer the battlefield—because in this game, it’s all about commanding your own epic fantasy story, one battle at a time. Check out more about the game here!

Last update on 2024-11-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Battle for Vallor: Fantasy Warfare Redefined

Battle for Vallor brings the epic scope of fantasy warfare to your tabletop, offering a blend of rich lore, wargaming and tabletop strategic depth, and stunning miniatures. The game is set in a world where magic and might collide, with factions ranging from noble knights to savage orcs and everything in between. The rules are designed to be accessible yet deep, providing a rewarding experience whether you’re commanding a small skirmish or leading a full-scale army into battle. Each faction has its own unique playstyle and abilities, encouraging players to develop strategies that suit their personal preferences and the strengths of their chosen forces.

The miniatures in Battle for Vallor are a major highlight, crafted with incredible attention to detail. These models not only look impressive on the table but also offer endless opportunities for customization and painting. The game’s lore is equally rich, providing a backdrop that adds weight and context to every conflict. From ancient prophecies to bitter rivalries, the world of Vallor is teeming with stories waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re a fan of classic fantasy or looking for a new world to explore, Battle for Vallor offers a fresh take on fantasy wargaming that’s both immersive and strategically engaging. Learn more about it here!

Fallout / Modiphius: Nostalgia Meets New Adventures

For fans of the iconic video game series Fallout: Wasteland Warfare by Modiphius, it offers a chance to bring the post-apocalyptic world of Fallout to the tabletop. The game captures the essence of the Fallout universe, from the bleak, irradiated landscapes to the quirky, retro-futuristic technology. Players can build their own settlements, gather resources, and engage in skirmishes against Super Mutants, Raiders, and other iconic foes. The game’s campaign mode adds a layer of narrative that allows you to experience the world of Fallout in a new, immersive way, where your decisions can have lasting consequences on the outcome of your adventure.

Modiphius also offers an Elder Scrolls game, expanding the company’s repertoire into the high fantasy genre. Just like with Fallout, the Elder Scrolls game brings the rich lore and immersive world of Tamriel to life on the tabletop. Whether you’re battling dragons or delving into ancient ruins, the game offers a faithful adaptation of the beloved video game series. Both games provide a nostalgic trip for fans of the original titles while introducing new gameplay elements that make them fresh and exciting. Whether you’re navigating the wasteland or exploring the vast world of Tamriel, Modiphius’s games offer a deeply engaging experience that bridges the gap between video gaming and tabletop strategy. Learn more about all of them here!

Last update on 2024-11-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The Walking Dead: All Out War

At some point, everyone has wondered how they’d survive a zombie apocalypse, and The Walking Dead: All Out War gives you a pretty entertaining way to find out. The game’s mechanics let you attract—or avoid—the undead by using sound to your advantage, whether you’re sneaking past a horde or making a run for it. You’ll be constantly balancing the risks of stealth versus speed, all while scavenging for whatever scraps the post-apocalyptic world has to offer.

For fans of the graphic novel series that inspired this shambling horde of a game, there’s plenty to enjoy. The box comes packed with well-crafted miniatures featuring many familiar faces from the comics, perfect for tabletop wargaming and enough to game with. The figures come pre-assembled, which is a bonus for those new to the painting side of the hobby. While the sculpts are a bit bulkier than typical human proportions, the exaggerated details make them a great canvas for beginners to practice their painting skills. Plus, it’s one of the few miniatures games that you can play solo, making it perfect for when you want to tackle the apocalypse without needing to rally a group, sometimes the solo tabletop wargaming experience is the way to go. Find out more about the game here!

Last update on 2024-11-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Best Alternative Games to Warhammer- Conquest: Marching to War in Fantasy Realms

Conquest is a game that harkens back to the golden age of tabletop wargaming, where grand armies clash on the battlefield in epic fantasy battles. The game is set in a richly developed world with its own lore, where factions like the noble Hundred Kingdoms, the savage Nords, and the mysterious Spires vie for dominance. Each faction is distinct, not just in aesthetics but also in playstyle, offering a variety of strategic options to explore. The square-based grid system will feel familiar to those who remember classic wargames, but Conquest modernizes this format with streamlined rules that make it accessible while retaining the depth needed for competitive play.

The miniatures in Conquest are nothing short of impressive, with a scale that allows for detailed, imposing models that dominate in tabletop wargaming. From hulking brutes to elegant knights, the models are designed to not only look great but also to capture the spirit of the game’s factions. Regular releases keep the game fresh, introducing new units, heroes, and monsters that expand the tactical possibilities. Whether you’re new to wargaming or a veteran looking for a game that combines old-school strategy with modern design, Conquest offers a compelling experience that’s both nostalgic and innovative. If you want to learn more, you can find it here!

Last update on 2024-11-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Frostgrave

If you’re looking for a fresh alternative to Warhammer but still want the thrill of tactical combat and immersive fantasy, Frostgrave might be the perfect game to add to your collection. Set in the frozen ruins of an ancient city, Frostgrave puts you in the role of a wizard leading a small band of adventurers on a quest for magical artifacts and hidden treasures. Unlike Warhammer’s large-scale battles, Frostgrave focuses on smaller, more intimate skirmishes, where strategy and cunning can turn the tide of a game in an instant.

What makes Frostgrave stand out is its emphasis on storytelling and the development of your warband over time. As you navigate through the icy streets and haunted ruins of the city, your wizard and their companions will gain experience, learn new spells, and acquire powerful items that can shift the balance of power in future games. The game’s campaign system encourages long-term play, with each session building on the last, creating a sense of progression and personal investment in your characters.

Plus, Frostgrave is highly flexible with miniatures—you can use any models you have, which makes it a cost-effective option for those who love to kitbash or repurpose figures from other games (making tabletop wargaming cheaper). Whether you’re a seasoned strategist or a fan of fantasy lore, Frostgrave offers a rich, narrative-driven experience that’s both challenging and rewarding, making it a worthy alternative to the grander battles of Warhammer. Find out more about Frostgrave here!

Last update on 2024-11-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Best Alternative Games to Warhammer: Guild Ball

Guild Ball is back and stands as the fan-favorite in the realm of fantasy football tabletop games. Set against the gritty backdrop of a steampunk world, the game features teams representing various guilds from cities far and wide. What makes Guild Ball stand out is its more traditional approach to gameplay, reminiscent of classic wargames. With rulers and templates in hand, players can measure out moves and plan strategies down to the last inch, bringing a sense of precision to the chaos of the pitch. The game also includes detailed rules for ball movement, complete with bounces and dribbles, and provides a stat line for everything from kicking distances to how well a player can withstand a brutal tackle.

Expanding on these elements, Guild Ball offers a rich, tactical experience that feels familiar to those with a background in miniature tabletop wargaming. Its grounded mechanics, like the use of precise measurements and well-defined stats, give it a strategic depth that appeals to players who enjoy methodical, skill-based play. Unlike its more fantastical competitors, Guild Ball’s steampunk setting doesn’t just add flavor; it enhances the gameplay by rooting it in a world where every move counts and every decision can tip the scales. Whether you’re orchestrating a flawless pass or weathering an opponent’s assault, the game’s focus on realism and strategy makes it a rewarding choice for those looking for a more traditional yet richly thematic tabletop sports experience. Find out more about Guild Ball here!

Last update on 2024-11-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Halo Flashpoint

Halo: Flashpoint is the officially licensed tabletop wargaming miniatures game that lets two or more players dive headfirst into the legendary War Games combat arena. Bringing classic Halo game modes, troop types, and iconic weapons to life on your tabletop, this game offers a thrilling mix of strategy and action. It’s easy to pick up, tough to master, and perfect for those who can keep their cool when the plasma bolts start flying!

After humanity was nearly wiped out by the relentless Covenant, the galaxy is still reeling from the devastation, with many worlds left scorched and ruined. But from the ashes of the Covenant War, a new breed of super-soldiers has emerged. Trained in the War Games simulation, these Spartan fire teams face off against an endless array of threats—including each other. So gear up, strategize, and get ready to lead your squad in this epic tactical showdown where only the sharpest minds will prevail! Check out more about the game here!

Dreadball

Dreadball is all about capturing the over-the-top drama and spectacle of futuristic, alien sports broadcasts. Set in a far-flung sci-fi universe, the game lets you manage teams through leagues, hype up the fans, and even dodge a vigilant referee as you commit outrageously obvious fouls—just like in real sports, but with a lot more alien flair.

Instead of traditional rulers and templates, Dreadball uses a hex-based system, swapping out the usual football rules for strike zones that offer different point values depending on where you score. This adds a nice layer of risk and reward to the gameplay. Everything you need to jump into the action comes right in the box, so there’s no need to stress about building or budgeting for a team. While the miniatures might not match Guild Ball’s level of detail, Dreadball makes up for it with a wild variety of sci-fi-inspired teams and characters, including plenty of nods to other games like Warhammer’s Blood Bowl. The diverse factions are a blast to choose from, each bringing its own unique flavor to the table, perfectly fitting the game’s more humorous tone. Plus, the rulebook encourages creativity by allowing you to build your own mutant team from a mix of parts—a brilliant touch for those who love a bit of DIY chaos. Check out more about the game here!

Last update on 2024-11-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

A Song of Ice and Fire

Epic battles and large-scale carnage are just as much a part of the A Song of Ice and Fire saga as the sneaky stuff. That’s where this expansive tabletop wargaming miniatures game steps in, shifting the focus to the gritty reality of the front lines, where soldiers from rival houses clash in a flurry of swords, spears, and philosophical disagreements—philosophies that, as is tradition in Westeros, are settled by reducing one another to a fine mince.

To capture the grand scale of commanding a vast, disciplined army—whether you’re backing the Starks, Lannisters, or another house—the Song of Ice and Fire: Tabletop wargaming Miniatures Game employs a rank-and-file system. Instead of moving individual models and pieces like in skirmish games such as Warhammer 40,000, your troops are arranged in neat, satisfying rows on plastic trays. This approach brings a distinct style of gameplay, emphasizing the tactical maneuvering of entire units rather than the nimble, small-scale tactics of skirmish games. It’s all about the big picture—marching your forces, holding the line, and clashing in the kind of grand battles that made Westeros famous in the first place. Learn more about the game here!

Last update on 2024-11-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Final Thoughts on the Best Alternative Games to Warhammer

And there you have it—a buffet of tabletop goodness ready to be sampled. Whether you’re itching for a brawl with superheroes, plotting your next interstellar conquest, or cruising down a post-apocalyptic highway in a souped-up death machine, there’s a game out there that’s just your flavor. Each of these alternatives offers something unique, from the crunch of tactical warfare to the thrill of cinematic skirmishes, all wrapped up in lore and miniatures that could make even the most stoic gamer grin.

So next time you’re feeling the urge to roll some dice and command an army—or maybe just a squad of ragtag misfits—you’ve got plenty of choices that go beyond the usual. Who knows? You might just find your next obsession lurking in the shadows of these lesser-known but equally exciting worlds.

Click Here for the Top 50 Best Alternatives to Games Workshop Miniatures

Which of these alternative Games Workshop Warhammer tabletop games (and game pieces) do you think is the best? What alternative miniature and tabletop wargaming game do you love to play that is not on the list?

About the Author: Rob Baer

Rob Baer

Job Title: Managing Editor

Founded Spikey Bits in 2009

Socials: Rob Baer on Facebook and @catdaddymbg on X

About Rob Baer: Founder, Publisher, & Managing Editor of Spikey Bits, the leading tabletop gaming news website focused on the hobby side of wargaming and miniatures.

Rob also co-founded and currently hosts the Long War Podcast, which has over 350 episodes  and focuses on tabletop miniatures gaming, specializing in Warhammer 40k. and spent five years writing for Bell of Lost Souls. Every year, along with his co-hosts, he helps host the Long War 40k Doubles Tournament at Adepticon and the Las Vegas Open, which attracts over 350 players from around the world.

Rob has won many Warhammer 40k Tournaments over the years, including multiple first-place finishes in Warhammer 40k Grand Tournaments over the years and even winning 1st place at the Adepticon 40k Team Tournament.

With over 30 years of experience in retail and distribution, Rob knows all the products and exactly which ones are the best. As a member of GAMA (Game Manufacturers Association), he advocates for gaming stores and manufacturers in these difficult times, always looking for the next big thing to feature for the miniatures hobby, helping everyone to provide the value consumers want.

While he’s played every edition of Warhammer 40k and Warhammer Fantasy (since 5th Edition) and has been hobbying on miniatures since the 1980s, Titans of all sizes will always be his favorite! It’s even rumored that his hobby vault rivals the Solemnance Galleries, containing rulebooks filled with lore from editions long past, ancient packs of black-bordered Magic Cards, and models made of both pewter and resin.

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