In the shadowed corners of the galaxy, Chaos whispers promises of power and freedom from the shackles of the weak.
We, the Chosen of the Dark Gods, revel in the madness and corruption that fuels our ascent. The Imperium trembles at our approach, for we wield the gifts of Chaos—warp-infused might and unholy sorcery.
We are the agents of change, the architects of destruction, embracing the gifts of Khorne, Tzeentch, Nurgle, and Slaanesh.
With every act of defiance, we tear down the old order, paving the way for a new era born from chaos.
Join us, and unleash your true potential!
Who Are Chaos?
In Warhammer 40k, Chaos refers to malevolent forces that embody corruption and destruction, primarily represented by the four Chaos Gods: Khorne, Nurgle, Tzeentch, and Slaanesh.
They seduce mortals with promises of power, leading to the rise of Chaos Space Marines, Daemons, and various cults that seek to undermine the Imperium.
What Chaos Armies Are There?
- Chaos Space Marines: Former loyalist Space Marines who have turned to Chaos, embracing dark powers. They are powerful, resilient warriors leading the charge against the Imperium.
- Chaos Daemons: Entities born from the realms of Chaos, including various types of daemons aligned with the four Chaos Gods. They embody the raw essence of Chaos and wreak havoc on the material universe.
- Death Guard: Followers of Nurgle, the Chaos God of decay and disease. They are resilient, plague-ridden warriors who spread contagion and despair, often featuring heavily armored troops.
- Thousand Sons: Once a proud Space Marine Legion, they are now devoted to Tzeentch, the God of change and knowledge. They wield powerful psychic abilities and are often represented by heavily mutated, sorcerous warriors.
- World Eaters: Devotees of Khorne, the God of war and bloodshed. Known for their brutal, aggressive tactics, they excel in close combat, seeking to spill blood in the name of their dark god.
- Chaos Knights: Massive war machines piloted by corrupted nobility, these knights serve the powers of Chaos. They combine devastating firepower with close combat capabilities, embodying the might of their twisted patrons.
Painting Tips For Chaos Armies
For beginners, when painting Chaos armies in Warhammer 40k, consider these techniques:
- Contrast Colors: Utilize bold, contrasting colors to highlight the chaotic nature of the faction.
- Layering and Blending: Build up layers for depth, especially on armor and skin, using smooth blends for transitions.
- Washes and Shades: Apply washes to create shadows and enhance details, particularly in crevices and recesses.
- Weathering Effects: Use techniques like sponging and dry brushing to add grime, rust, and battle damage for a grim appearance.
- Texture and Gore: Incorporate textures for organic elements and use blood effects to emphasize the brutality of Chaos.
Need help getting started with painting? See our Warhammer Painting Guide For Beginners.
Best Chaos Books For Beginners
- Daemon World (Ben Counter): On a hellish world inhabited by the nightmare daemons of warp space, a new dark power has emerged as conflict erupts between the followers of the Slaanesh, Lord of Pleasure, and a brutal barbarian tribe.
- The Talon of Horus (Aaron Dembski-Bowden): Focusing on the Black Legion and Abaddon the Despoiler, this novel examines the aftermath of the Horus Heresy, detailing the ambitions and struggles of Chaos Space Marines as they seek to reclaim their power.
- Apex Predator (Gavin G Smith): Imperial Knight pilot Sethana faces her greatest fear – Traitor Knights from an age long lost. As she hunts – or is hunted – across a ravaged world, new tactics are required to seize victory.
- Plague War (Guy Haley): This story centers on the Death Guard as they unleash a devastating plague upon the Imperium. It explores the themes of decay and corruption while showcasing the relentless nature of Nurgle’s followers.
- Thousand Sons (Graham McNeill): This novel tells the story of the Thousand Sons Legion, focusing on their tragic fall and transformation due to their pursuit of forbidden knowledge, ultimately leading to their allegiance to Tzeentch.
- Betrayer (Aaron Dembski-Bowden): Set during the Horus Heresy, this novel follows Kharn the Betrayer and the World Eaters as they embrace bloodshed and violence, exploring the depths of their savagery and devotion to Khorne.
