The dimensions at which the tabletop wargame Warhammer 40,000 is played is generally referred to as its “scale.” This involves two distinct aspects: the scale of the miniatures themselves and the scale of the battlefield they occupy. Miniatures are typically 28mm “heroic scale,” meaning that while a standard human figure might proportionally represent 28mm from foot to eye, proportions are often exaggerated for visual impact and detail. The battlefield’s scale is a more abstract representation, where distances on the tabletop do not directly correlate to realistic measurements.
Understanding the spatial representation within the game is crucial for strategic planning and gameplay. The dimensions affect movement, range, and line of sight. Furthermore, the historical evolution of these dimensions reflects a balance between visual appeal, practical considerations for tabletop play, and the evolving lore of the setting. The established representation, despite its abstractions, contributes significantly to the immersive experience and tactical depth of the game.
