The Only War PDF is a comprehensive guide for the Warhammer 40,000 RPG, detailing rules, lore, and resources for players and Game Masters, essential for both new and veteran players․
1․1 Overview of the Only War Game
Only War is a Warhammer 40,000 role-playing game focused on the Imperial Guard, offering a gritty, combat-oriented experience․ Players take on the roles of Imperial Guardsmen, navigating the grim darkness of the far future․ The game emphasizes squad-based tactics, regimental loyalty, and survival against overwhelming odds․ With detailed character creation and regiment customization, it provides a unique blend of storytelling and tactical combat․ Designed for both new and veteran players, Only War includes core rules, background lore, and resources for Game Masters to craft immersive campaigns in the Warhammer 40k universe․
1․2 Importance of the Core Rulebook
The Only War Core Rulebook is indispensable for players and Game Masters, as it contains the fundamental rules, background lore, and essential tools for running and playing the game․ Published in 2012, it provides a comprehensive framework for character creation, combat systems, and campaign management․ The rulebook includes detailed chapters on regiment creation, pregenerated regiments, and expanded lore for the Spinward Front of the Calixis Sector․ It also offers guidance for Game Masters, such as managing campaigns and creating adventures․ This core resource ensures a smooth and immersive experience, making it a must-have for both new and veteran players․
Core Rulebook Contents
, Regiment Creation, and Pregenerated Regiments, offering detailed rules, character creation, combat systems, and rich lore for the Warhammer 40,000 universe․
, immersing players in the relentless conflicts of the Warhammer 40,000 setting․ It outlines the core premise of the game, focusing on the struggles of Imperial Guardsmen, their camaraderie, and the bleak realities of war․ This chapter introduces key concepts, such as character roles, regimental identities, and the central themes of sacrifice and survival․ Players are guided through the basics of gameplay, preparing them to embark on their journey as soldiers in the Imperium of Man, fighting for humanity’s survival against countless threats in a war-torn galaxy․
2․2 Chapter II: Regiment Creation
Chapter II: Regiment Creation is a detailed guide for crafting unique and customizable regiments in the Warhammer 40,000 universe․ Players can choose from various regimental backgrounds, each with distinct traits, weapons, and combat styles, allowing for a personalized experience․ This chapter also covers the selection of regimental specializations, which enhance specific aspects of gameplay, such as close combat or ranged efficiency․ Additionally, it provides rules for assigning regimental wargear and doctrine, ensuring that each regiment feels distinct and tailored to the players’ preferences․ The flexibility offered in this chapter makes it a cornerstone for building immersive and strategic gameplay experiences in Only War․
2․3 Pregenerated Regiments
The Only War Core Rulebook includes pregenerated regiments, providing players with ready-to-use options for their campaigns․ These regiments, such as the Molech Regiment or Cadian Shock Troops, come with unique backgrounds, traits, and equipment, allowing players to jump into the game quickly․ Each pregenerated regiment offers a distinct playstyle, catering to different tactical preferences․ For example, the Valhallan Ice Warriors excel in cold environments, while the Cadians are known for their discipline and versatility․ These regiments are fully customizable, enabling players to adapt them to their campaign’s narrative․ This feature is particularly helpful for new players, streamlining character and squad creation․
Game Mechanics
The game mechanics in Only War include rules for combat, character progression, and morale, designed to enhance the grimdark, survival-focused experience of the Warhammer 40k universe․
3․1 Combat Systems
The combat systems in Only War are designed to reflect the gritty, war-torn nature of the Warhammer 40,000 universe․ They emphasize tactical decision-making, with detailed rules for weapon statistics, cover mechanics, and morale effects․ Players must manage resources like ammunition and suppressive fire, adding a layer of realism․ The system also incorporates a variety of combat scenarios, from close-quarters battles to large-scale engagements, ensuring versatility․ Morale plays a significant role, as troops can panic or flee under heavy fire, further immersing players in the grimdark setting․ These mechanics create a balanced and immersive experience, fitting the game’s survival horror themes․
3․2 Character Progression
Character progression in Only War allows players to develop their guardsmen through earning experience points in combat and completing missions․ Characters can improve their stats, unlock new skills, and gain access to advanced specializations, enhancing their effectiveness on the battlefield․ The system emphasizes survival, with progression tied to enduring the harsh realities of war․ Players must carefully manage their advancements to ensure their characters remain viable in the grimdark setting․ This progression system adds depth and longevity to the game, rewarding players for their characters’ survival and contributions to the regiment’s success․
3․3 Morale and Discipline
Morale and discipline are crucial aspects of the Only War game, reflecting the harsh realities of warfare in the Warhammer 40,000 universe․ Troops must maintain their resolve in the face of overwhelming odds, with low morale potentially leading to desertion, fear, or ineffective combat performance․ Commissars play a key role in enforcing discipline, ensuring that soldiers remain loyal and focused․ The game mechanics include systems for tracking morale, with penalties for failing to maintain order․ This adds a layer of realism and strategic depth, as players must balance combat effectiveness with the psychological state of their characters․
Character Creation
Character creation in Only War allows players to craft unique Guardsmen, choosing backgrounds, skills, and equipment․ Pregenerated characters offer quick starts, while custom builds enable deep personalization․
4․1 Pregenerated Characters
The Only War PDF includes pregenerated characters, offering players quick access to diverse roles such as Commissars, Medics, and Heavy Gunners․ These characters are fully detailed with backgrounds, skills, and equipment, allowing new players to jump into the game without extensive setup․ Each pregenerated character represents a unique archetype, showcasing the variety of roles within the Imperial Guard․ Players can choose from these templates or use them as inspiration for custom builds․ The pregenerated characters are balanced for immediate play, ensuring a seamless introduction to the game’s mechanics and tone․ This feature is ideal for newcomers or those seeking to explore different playstyles․
4․2 Custom Character Builds
The Only War PDF provides extensive options for creating custom characters, allowing players to craft unique Imperial Guardsmen tailored to their preferred playstyle․ Players can choose from various Regiment backgrounds, select specialized skills, and equip their characters with appropriate wargear․ This system offers flexibility, enabling the creation of everything from grizzled veterans to fresh recruits․ Custom builds ensure that each character has a distinct role within their squad, fostering teamwork and strategic gameplay․ The ruleset also allows for progression, letting characters grow and adapt as they gain experience․ This depth makes custom characters a core aspect of the game’s appeal․
Regiment Creation
Regiment Creation in Only War allows players to customize their Imperial Guard units, choosing backgrounds, specializations, and wargear to craft unique and adaptable forces for any mission․
5․1 Regiment Types
In Only War, Regiment Types define the core role of an Imperial Guard unit․ Players can choose from Infantry, Armored, or Heavy Support regiments, each with unique strengths and equipment․ Infantry regiments excel in versatility and adaptability, while Armored regiments rely on vehicles for superior firepower and mobility․ Heavy Support regiments specialize in dealing massive damage with heavy weapons․ Each type offers distinct playstyles, allowing players to tailor their forces to match their strategic preferences․ This customization ensures that every regiment feels unique, enabling diverse tactical approaches in the grim darkness of the Warhammer 40,000 universe․
5․2 Regiment Specializations
Regiment Specializations in Only War enable players to further customize their forces, granting unique abilities and enhancements․ These specializations allow regiments to excel in specific areas, such as close combat, ranged warfare, or tactical maneuvers․ By choosing a specialization, players can tailor their regiment to fit their preferred playstyle, enhancing their effectiveness on the battlefield․ This system provides depth and variety, ensuring that each regiment feels distinct and strategically relevant in the grim darkness of the Warhammer 40,000 universe․
5․3 Regiment Backgrounds
Regiment Backgrounds in Only War provide rich narrative and lore for regiments, detailing their origins, homeworlds, and unique cultural traits․ These backgrounds shape the regiment’s identity, influencing their abilities and playstyle․ Players can choose from diverse backgrounds, such as the industrialized Molech Regiments or the icy Valhallan Ice Warriors, each with distinct strengths and weaknesses․ Regiment Backgrounds also include historical context, defining how they fit into the Warhammer 40,000 universe․ This system enhances immersion and customization, allowing players to craft a regiment that aligns with their preferred story and combat style, adding depth to both characters and campaigns․
Role of the Game Master
The Game Master creates immersive stories, manages gameplay, and maintains the grimdark tone․ They use the Game Master’s Kit for references, adventures, and NPC guidance․
6․1 Game Master’s Kit
The Game Master’s Kit is an essential resource for managing Only War campaigns․ It includes a sturdy GM screen with artwork on one side and quick-reference charts on the other․ A 32-page booklet provides a complete adventure, NPCs, and tips for creating immersive stories․ The kit helps GMs maintain the grimdark tone and ensures smooth gameplay․ It’s a valuable tool for both new and experienced GMs, offering practical advice and materials to enhance the Warhammer 40,000 RPG experience․ The kit’s resources are designed to help GMs craft engaging adventures and manage their campaigns effectively․
6․2 Managing Campaigns
Managing campaigns in Only War requires balancing storytelling, combat, and character development․ The Game Master must create immersive experiences, weaving together the grimdark setting and themes of camaraderie․ Utilizing pre-generated content, like adventures from the Game Master’s Kit, can streamline campaign preparation․ Balancing combat encounters with role-playing opportunities ensures a dynamic experience․ The GM must also maintain the Warhammer 40,000 tone, emphasizing survival and sacrifice․ By adapting to player choices and maintaining a cohesive narrative, the GM ensures a memorable and engaging campaign․ Effective campaign management is crucial for capturing the spirit of the Imperial Guard’s struggles in a war-torn universe․
6․3 Creating Adventures
Creating adventures for Only War involves crafting compelling narratives that align with the grimdark Warhammer 40,000 setting․ The Game Master should focus on scenarios that emphasize survival, sacrifice, and camaraderie, reflecting the Imperial Guard’s struggles․ Adventures can include missions like besieged outposts, infiltration behind enemy lines, or desperate last stands․ Utilizing pre-generated content, such as the adventures in the Game Master’s Kit, provides a solid foundation․ Incorporating NPCs, morale mechanics, and discipline rules adds depth․ The GM must balance combat with role-playing opportunities, ensuring players experience the harsh realities of war․ Custom adventures should align with the campaign’s tone and themes, immersing players in the Warhammer 40,000 universe․
Key Enemies in Only War
The Only War PDF details iconic foes like Orks, Eldar, Tyranids, and Chaos Forces, each posing unique threats to the Imperial Guard, enhancing the game’s grimdark atmosphere․
7․1 Orks
The Orks are a central enemy in Only War, representing a constant, brutal threat to the Imperium․ These green-skinned warriors are driven by a love of battle and a tribal, hierarchical society․ Led by powerful Warbosses, Ork mobs, or “Waaagh!,” are nearly unstoppable forces of chaos․ Their ramshackle technology and erratic tactics make them unpredictable foes, relying on sheer numbers and brute strength․ The Orks’ culture of constant warfare and trophy-taking adds depth to their role as enemies, providing players with intense, action-packed combat scenarios․ Their presence in the game underscores the grimdark tone, as they embody relentless, unyielding aggression․
7․2 Eldar
The Eldar are ancient, technologically advanced foes in Only War, embodying elegance and deadly precision․ Their sleek, agile forces rely on speed and psychic might, contrasting sharply with the brute strength of the Orks․ Eldar armies are often led by mysterious psykers and Aspect Warriors, each specializing in specific combat roles․ Their webway portals and advanced wraithships allow for rapid, unpredictable attacks, making them elusive enemies․ The Eldar’s motivation stems from a desperate struggle to preserve their dying civilization, adding depth to their role as adversaries․ Their hit-and-run tactics and superior technology challenge Imperial Guard regiments, fitting seamlessly into the grimdark setting of constant warfare and survival․
7․3 Tyranids
Tyranids are a relentless, hive-minded alien force in Only War, driven by an insatiable hunger for biomass to sustain their race․ Their armies consist of countless insectoid creatures, from swarming Termagants to towering Carnifexes, each designed for specific roles․ Tyranids do not use conventional tactics; instead, they overwhelm enemies with sheer numbers and adaptive biology․ Their ability to evolve during battles makes them unpredictable and formidable foes․ As a force of nature, Tyranids embody the grimdark setting’s existential threats, challenging Imperial Guard regiments with relentless assaults and biological horrors, adding layers of survival and desperation to the game’s narrative․
7․4 Chaos Forces
Chaos Forces are a corrupt and devastating enemy in Only War, representing the traitorous remnants of humanity and Space Marines who have sworn allegiance to the Ruinous Powers․ Led by powerful Chaos Champions, these forces seek to spread corruption and destruction across the galaxy․ Their armies are a mix of mutated traitors, daemonic entities, and corrupted machinery, making them a nightmarish foe for Imperial Guard regiments․ Chaos Forces embody the grimdark tone of the setting, offering a blend of moral and physical challenges․ Their presence adds layers of horror and betrayal, as players must confront the dark mirror of humanity’s own potential for corruption․
Themes and Tone
The Only War setting emphasizes a grimdark, war-torn universe, focusing on camaraderie, survival, and sacrifice․ Its tone blends intense combat with moral ambiguity and existential despair, capturing the bleakness of constant conflict․
8․1 Grimdark Setting
The Only War PDF immerses players in a grimdark universe where the Imperium of Man struggles for survival․ Set in the Warhammer 40,000 universe, the game portrays a bleak, war-torn galaxy where humanity clings to existence․ The grimdark tone emphasizes constant warfare, moral ambiguity, and the futility of individual efforts against an uncaring universe․ Players experience the harsh realities of being Imperial Guardsmen, facing overwhelming odds, and grappling with the psychological toll of unending conflict․ This setting creates a somber, intense atmosphere, highlighting the sacrifices and desperation of those fighting for the Imperium’s survival in a hopeless, unforgiving world․
8․2 Camaraderie and Sacrifice
Camaraderie and sacrifice are central themes in Only War, reflecting the bonds formed among Imperial Guardsmen in the face of overwhelming odds․ Players experience the strength of brotherhood as their characters rely on one another for survival․ The game emphasizes the importance of teamwork, with squad-based mechanics fostering unity and cooperation․ Sacrifice is a recurring motif, as characters may give their lives to protect their comrades or achieve critical mission objectives․ These elements create a poignant narrative, highlighting the human side of war amidst the grim darkness of the Warhammer 40,000 universe․ This emotional depth enriches the gameplay and storytelling experience․
8․3 Survival Horror Elements
Survival horror elements in Only War immerse players in a grim, tense atmosphere where resources are scarce, and death lurks around every corner․ The game captures the desperation of Imperial Guardsmen facing overwhelming enemies like Tyranids and Chaos forces․ Limited ammunition, malfunctioning equipment, and the psychological toll of constant warfare heighten the sense of vulnerability․ Players must make tough decisions to survive, such as abandoning wounded comrades or risking everything for a critical mission․ These elements create a chilling narrative, blending fear and resilience to evoke a visceral experience․ The survival horror aspect amplifies the game’s emotional impact and strategic depth․
Resources for Players and GMs
Character sheets and squad sheets help track progress and stats․ Online communities offer support, while additional materials like adventures and reference guides enhance gameplay and storytelling․
9․1 Character Sheets
Character sheets are essential tools for organizing player data, including stats, skills, and equipment․ They help track progress and advancements, ensuring seamless gameplay․ Official sheets are available in the Core Rulebook or online, offering structured formats for clarity․ These resources often include space for detailed character backgrounds, allowing players to flesh out their personalities and histories․ Some communities provide editable PDFs, enabling customization to fit individual playstyles․ Character sheets are indispensable for managing complex character builds and ensuring all players are on the same page․ They enhance gameplay by keeping information accessible and organized, fostering immersive storytelling and efficient gameplay․
9․2 Squad Sheets
Squad Sheets are vital resources for managing group dynamics in Only War, offering a detailed overview of squad composition and performance․ These tools track morale, cohesion, and mission objectives, ensuring streamlined gameplay․ They complement character sheets by focusing on collective strengths and weaknesses, aiding strategic decision-making․ Squad Sheets often include sections for mission briefings, enemy encounters, and post-battle debriefs․ They are available in the Core Rulebook and online, providing players and GMs with organized frameworks to oversee squad-level activities․ By centralizing essential information, Squad Sheets enhance teamwork and immersion, making them indispensable for both new and veteran players alike in the Warhammer 40k universe․
9․3 Online Communities
Online communities play a crucial role in fostering collaboration and resource-sharing among Only War players and GMs․ Forums, social media groups, and specialized platforms host discussions on game mechanics, custom content, and campaign ideas․ Players share homebrew rules, character builds, and regiment backgrounds, enriching the game’s depth․ These communities also provide feedback and support for new players, ensuring a welcoming environment․ Additionally, they serve as hubs for organizing virtual campaigns and connecting with fellow enthusiasts․ By engaging with these online spaces, fans can enhance their gameplay experience and stay updated on the latest developments in the Only War universe․
Campaign Settings
Campaign settings in Only War offer diverse and rich environments, from the war-torn Spinward Front to custom-created worlds, enhancing gameplay immersion and storytelling possibilities for players and GMs․
10․1 The Spinward Front
The Spinward Front is a key campaign setting in Only War, offering a gritty, war-torn environment rich in conflict and lore․ Located in the Calixis Sector, this region is characterized by its dense population, industrialized planets, and constant battles against threats like Orks and Chaos forces․ The Spinward Front provides a perfect backdrop for tales of camaraderie, sacrifice, and survival, blending the grimdark tone of Warhammer 40,000 with immersive gameplay opportunities․ Players and GMs can explore diverse missions, from urban warfare to desert skirmishes, creating unique stories that highlight the resilience of Imperial Guardsmen in a forsaken galaxy․
10․2 Calixis Sector
The Calixis Sector is a densely populated and industrialized region within the Warhammer 40,000 universe, serving as a key setting for Only War campaigns․ Its planets, such as Molech and Adumbria, offer diverse environments for missions, from urban battles to hive city skirmishes․ The sector is plagued by threats like Chaos corruption and ork raids, providing ample opportunities for gritty, immersive storytelling․ The Calixis Sector’s rich lore and varied locales make it an ideal backdrop for campaigns focusing on the Imperial Guard, allowing players to explore themes of sacrifice, camaraderie, and survival in a war-torn galaxy․
10․3 Custom Campaigns
Custom campaigns in Only War PDF offer unparalleled flexibility, allowing players to craft unique stories and settings tailored to their preferences․ The Core Rulebook provides extensive resources for creating personalized regiments, backgrounds, and mission objectives, ensuring each campaign is distinct; Game Masters can design original enemies and plot twists, catering to their group’s playstyle․ Whether focusing on intense combat or strategic role-playing, custom campaigns enable endless creativity․ Players can explore the grimdark universe through their own lens, emphasizing themes of camaraderie and survival․ With the right tools, custom campaigns become immersive experiences that keep the game fresh and engaging for all involved․
The Only War PDF is a valuable resource, offering essential rules and lore for an immersive Warhammer 40,000 RPG experience, perfect for both new and veteran players․
11․1 Final Thoughts
The Only War PDF stands as a comprehensive guide, offering detailed rules, rich lore, and essential resources for both players and Game Masters․ Its focus on the Imperial Guard provides a unique perspective on the grimdark Warhammer 40,000 universe, emphasizing camaraderie, sacrifice, and survival․ With robust mechanics for combat and character progression, it ensures an immersive experience․ The inclusion of pregenerated regiments and characters, along with tools for custom builds, caters to all playstyles․ Whether you’re a veteran or new to the franchise, this PDF is a invaluable resource for crafting unforgettable campaigns in the Warhammer 40,000 setting․
11․2 Encouragement to Play
Embark on the gritty adventures of the Imperial Guard with the Only War PDF, where every mission is a testament to sacrifice and camaraderie․ Dive into the grimdark Warhammer 40,000 universe, where survival is a daily struggle․ With detailed rules, pregenerated characters, and customizable regiments, the game offers endless opportunities for storytelling and tactical combat․ Whether you’re a veteran player or new to the franchise, Only War provides a rich, immersive experience․ Gather your squad, face relentless enemies, and forge unforgettable memories․ The Imperium needs you—join the fight today and experience the thrill of war in the 41st millennium!