An Introduction to Warhammer Online

Hi there, everyone, I'm Stormcrow, one of the staff here at the Tower of Hoeth, and I'm here today to talk to you about Warhammer Online. Big surprise right? The Warhammer Online in big bold letters at the top of the page along with iconic pictures and phrases generously borrowed (read: stolen) from EAMythic (the Developer) and Games Workshop (the IP) probably gave it away, huh?

This is just a little introduction to players who may have heard about Warhammer Online and aren't really sure what it's about, and don't want to spend hours sifting through several years worth of information. Or you may be a "Waiting on Warhammer" veteran who is trying to remember all the truly awesome things that are going into the game. Either way, here we go!

Warhammer Online is an MMORPG being released by EAMythic in the Fall of 2008. The game has been in production (in its current form) since mid 2005. The game focuses on RvR (PvP on a massive scale), and has several unique features that should keep players entertained for a long time to come. But enough with that, let's get to what really sets Warhammer apart from other MMO's.

Warhammer's Tagline is at once both simple and eloquent: "War is everywhere."

The game features the timeless battle between good and evil (Order vs. Destruction), and I'm not talking about Warcraft's "Noble Savages." I'm talking big, brutish, hulking death dealers that know niether pity nor remorse. Even the so-called "good guys" have an edgy, anti-hero, feel about them that literally screams awesome.

There are three races for each side. Order is represented by the Empire (semi-traditional human race), High Elves, and Dwarves. Evil is represented by Chaos (humans corrupted by dark and powerful energies), Dark Elves, and the Greenskins (a mix of Orcs and Goblins).

Ugh, another game with Elves, Dwarves and Orcs... what is this World of Warcraft 2.0? I think not! The Warhammer Fantasy IP (intellectual property) has been around since 1983! This world is ancient, deadly, and filled with incredible lore and bitter rivalries. An excellent setting for any MMO!

In fact, I think this is a great time to show you the Official Warhammer Online Cinematic Trailer. If you've never seen this video, I must say, you're in for a treat. Go ahead and watch it now!

Watch the Cinematic Trailer: Here!

Whoa... epic, right? I have to say, every time I watch that trailer I get shivers. It starts off pretty silly, showing the Greenskin Choppa getting catapulted into a fortress wall, but gets down to business quickly as it pans down to the conflict between the Greenskin Black Orc and the Dwarven Slayer (a class, that sadly, didn't make it into the game). The cinematic quickly jumps over to the elven conflict, showcasing a Dark Elven Witch Elf fighting a High Elven Arch-Mage, and finally comes to an epic conclusion as we watch the Chaos Chosen battle the Empire Warrior-Priest. I admit, every time I watch the video I keep hoping the ending changes. =)

If you're like me you're already starting to think about what race/character you're going to play.

Each race has four classes, that fit into four rough archetypes: Tank, Melee DPS, Ranged DPS, and Healer/Support.

Again I hear you cry, ugh! Sounds like more of the same... but each race has four UNIQUE classes. None of the tanks are the same, some have similar mechanics, but all have their own unique feel and style.

Go here to view more information on: Character Classes

I'm sure this has given you plenty to think about, so take a break, visit the main site, and determine, if you haven't already, what faction, race, and class you'll play!

As always, keep checking back for more discussion of Warhammer Online: Age of Reckoning.

Stormcrow