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Are you a beginner looking to dive into the exciting world of Age of Sigmar, the popular miniature wargame by Games Workshop? As a newcomer to the hobby, choosing the right army is crucial for an enjoyable and fulfilling gaming experience. With the myriad of options available, it can be overwhelming to decide where to start. That’s where we come in.

Welcome to Wargame Explorer, where we’ll guide you through the process of selecting the best Age of Sigmar army for beginners. Whether you’re fascinated by the valiant Stormcast Eternals, the eerie Nighthaunt, the ancient Seraphon, the ravenous Flesh-Eater Courts, or the mysterious Idoneth Deepkin, we’ve got you covered.

In this blog post, we’ll dig into the factors you should consider when choosing an army as a beginner, such as complexity, assembly, painting, versatility, and affordability. We’ll then introduce our top five recommendations for Age of Sigmar armies that are beginner-friendly, ensuring an accessible and enjoyable experience as you embark on your wargaming journey. (And then we’ll list our bottom five picks as worst Age of Sigmar armies for beginners.)

By the end of this blog, you’ll have a better understanding of the key attributes that make an army suitable for beginners and a clear idea of which army might resonate with your playstyle and preferences. So, grab your paints, gather your dice, and let’s explore the five best Age of Sigmar armies for beginners!

Criteria For Best Age of Sigmar Army for Beginners

Before delving into our top five recommendations, it’s important to understand the factors to consider when choosing an Age of Sigmar army as a beginner. These factors will help you make an informed decision that aligns with your interests and ensures a smooth learning curve. Here are the key factors to keep in mind:

Complexity of gameplay and rules:

Age of Sigmar offers a diverse range of armies, each with its own unique abilities, playstyles, and rules. As a beginner, it’s wise to opt for armies that have straightforward gameplay mechanics and intuitive rules. This will allow you to grasp the fundamentals quickly and enjoy the game without getting overwhelmed by complex interactions. This isn’t to say this should be your only consideration, but it is important if you’re new.

Ease of assembly and painting:

Another vital aspect for beginners is the assembly and painting process. Some armies may have intricate or delicate models that can be challenging for those new to the hobby. (Any model in the hands of a master painter can look incredible, from the lowliest skink to the highest gargant.) Look for armies with models that are relatively easy to assemble and paint, allowing you to focus on honing your skills without being discouraged by overly intricate details.

Versatility and adaptability:

When starting out, it’s beneficial to choose an army that offers versatility and adaptability on the tabletop. A flexible army will provide you with a range of tactical options, allowing you to experiment with different strategies and playstyles. This versatility ensures that your army can adapt to various opponents and scenarios, providing a dynamic and engaging gaming experience.

Availability of starter sets and model ranges:

Games Workshop often releases starter sets or beginner-friendly bundles for specific armies. These sets usually include a selection of models, core rulebooks, and other essential components, making them an excellent choice for beginners. Not only do they offer value for money, but they also provide a curated starting point that simplifies the initial steps of diving into the hobby.

Also, we’re going to make note of which model ranges have been recently refreshed, and which are looking decades old.

Rule of Cool:

As with anything in wargaming, you’re not going to get excited to invest the time of collecting, painting, and learning an entirely new army unless they have that certain something about them that gets you excited. Whether that be the awesome dinosaur-like beasts in Seraphon, or the ghoulish horror of the Nighthaunt, there’s something here for everyone. And, when in doubt, pick the army that looks the coolest.

By considering these factors, you’ll be better equipped to choose an Age of Sigmar army that aligns with your preferences and sets you up for an enjoyable and rewarding gaming experience. Now that we have the groundwork laid out, let’s move on to the exciting part—the top five Age of Sigmar armies for beginners.

The Five Best Age of Sigmar Armies for Beginners

#1 Best Age of Sigmar Army for Beginners: Stormcast Eternals

Overview of Stormcast Eternals faction:

The Stormcast Eternals are the stalwart warriors of Sigmar, the God-King. Created through a process known as reforging, they are essentially immortal beings clad in gleaming armor, wielding mighty weapons. These noble warriors were forged to defend the Mortal Realms against the forces of Chaos. Their background and lore are rich with tales of heroism, sacrifice, and divine purpose.

The Stormcast Eternals represent a classic and iconic faction within Age of Sigmar. Their striking appearance, with their golden armor and thunderous weapons, has captivated many hobbyists. The lore surrounding the Stormcast Eternals is deeply rooted in the narrative of the Age of Sigmar setting, making them an appealing choice for those who enjoy immersing themselves in a rich backstory.

Beginner-friendly aspects of the army:

One of the most beginner-friendly aspects of the Stormcast Eternals is their exceptional durability. Clad in Sigmarite armor, they can withstand a considerable amount of punishment on the battlefield. This resilience allows new players to make mistakes and learn from them without facing immediate defeat. Additionally, the Stormcast Eternals possess mostly straightforward gameplay mechanics.

Their units often have reliable abilities and easy-to-understand rules, making them accessible for beginners. This simplicity enables players to focus on learning the core mechanics of Age of Sigmar without being overwhelmed by intricate interactions.

Furthermore, the Stormcast Eternals are forgiving to mistakes. Their unique ability to be reforged means that fallen models can be brought back into battle, mitigating the impact of losses and providing a sense of resilience and persistence on the tabletop.

Recommended units and tactics for beginners:

For beginners, it is advisable to start with a core set of units that offer a balanced mix of offense and defense. Liberators, armed with powerful hammers and shields, form the backbone of a Stormcast Eternals force. These units are versatile, able to dish out damage in close combat while maintaining solid defenses.

Judicators, armed with long-ranged bows, provide valuable ranged support and are an excellent choice to complement the Liberators. Their ability to rain arrows down upon the enemy from a distance adds tactical flexibility to the army.

In terms of tactics, beginners can focus on utilizing the Stormcast Eternals’ durability to hold objectives and control key areas of the battlefield. Their ability to weather enemy attacks while dealing consistent damage makes them a reliable force in objective-based scenarios.

Key strengths and weaknesses:

One of the key strengths of the Stormcast Eternals is their exceptional survivability. Their high armor saves, combined with abilities like the Sigmarite Shields, make them difficult to kill. This allows the Stormcast Eternals to withstand enemy assaults and hold key positions on the battlefield.

Additionally, the Stormcast Eternals possess strong offensive capabilities. Units such as Retributors and Prosecutors can deliver devastating blows to enemy forces, ensuring that the Stormcast Eternals can pack a punch in combat.

However, one weakness of the Stormcast Eternals is their relatively slower movement compared to other factions. This can sometimes make it challenging to quickly react to fast-moving enemy units or capture objectives in scenarios that require mobility.

Perhaps the biggest thing in Stormcast Eternals’ favor for beginners is that Games Workshop purposely makes them for beginners. They’re the Space Marines of Age of Sigmar. Versatile, easy to play, with a TON of model choices, and always available in core sets (at least so far).

The Stormcast Eternals are an excellent choice for beginners due to their durability, straightforward gameplay mechanics, and forgiving nature. With their striking appearance and compelling lore, they offer an engaging entry point into the world of Age of Sigmar. By fielding units like Liberators and Judicators and focusing on objective-based tactics, beginners can harness the strengths of the Stormcast Eternals.

#2. Best Age of Sigmar Army for Beginners: Nighthaunt

Overview of Nighthaunt faction:

The Nighthaunt are spectral horrors that haunt the Mortal Realms, representing the restless spirits of the damned. Bound to the will of powerful and malevolent entities, they are a terrifying force on the battlefield. The Nighthaunt faction is characterized by its ethereal and ghostly appearance, making them a visually striking and unique choice within Age of Sigmar.

The lore surrounding the Nighthaunt is steeped in darkness and mystery. They are driven by a thirst for vengeance and seek to spread fear and despair. Their chilling backstory and haunting abilities make them an intriguing option for those who appreciate macabre and atmospheric storytelling.

Beginner-friendly aspects of the army:

The Nighthaunt possess several beginner-friendly aspects that make them a suitable choice for new players. One such aspect is their ethereal nature. Many of their units have the ability to pass through terrain and other models unhindered, granting them excellent mobility and maneuverability on the battlefield. This mechanic simplifies movement and positioning decisions for beginners.

Additionally, Nighthaunt models are often easy to assemble (though delicate). Their ghostly forms require minimal intricate detail work, allowing beginners to focus on basic painting techniques and achieving a spectral aesthetic. Games Workshop has two paints specifically made for painting Nighthaunt: Nighthaunt Gloom and Hexwraith Flame. This aspect makes the painting process more accessible and encourages creativity with ghostly color schemes.

Recommended units and tactics for beginners:

For beginners venturing into the Nighthaunt faction, a strong foundation can be built around Chainrasps. These hordes of ethereal spirits form the backbone of the army, overwhelming enemies through sheer numbers. Their ability to reanimate fallen models ensures a persistent presence on the battlefield.

Spirit Hosts provide valuable support with their ethereal attacks, capable of bypassing armor saves and inflicting mortal wounds on enemies. They excel at hunting down key targets and disrupting enemy lines.

In terms of tactics, beginners can focus on utilizing the Nighthaunt’s mobility to their advantage. The ability to pass through terrain and models allows for unexpected charges and flanking maneuvers. By utilizing hit-and-run tactics and strategic positioning, beginners can disrupt their opponents and capitalize on the Nighthaunt’s spectral nature.

Key strengths and weaknesses:

One of the key strengths of the Nighthaunt is their ethereal mechanics. Being able to ignore terrain and other models provides excellent maneuverability, allowing them to dictate engagements and control the flow of the battle. This aspect makes them particularly effective in objective-based scenarios.

Additionally, the Nighthaunt possess strong debuff abilities, capable of reducing the effectiveness of enemy units. Units like the Spirit Torment can weaken the enemy’s bravery, making them more susceptible to battleshock tests and potentially causing them to flee from the battlefield.

However, one weakness of the Nighthaunt is their fragility. While they can bypass armor saves and possess some defensive abilities, they generally have lower toughness and fewer wounds compared to other factions. This makes them vulnerable to high-damage attacks and necessitates careful positioning and strategic use of their ethereal abilities.

The Nighthaunt offer a unique and visually captivating army choice for beginners. Their ethereal mechanics, easy assembly, and mobility-focused playstyle make them accessible and engaging. By fielding units such as Chainrasps and Spirit Hosts and capitalizing on hit-and-run tactics, beginners can harness the spectral strengths of the Nighthaunt to strike fear into the hearts of their opponents.

And honestly, they just look fantastic. Rule of cool all the way.

#3. Best Age of Sigmar Army for Beginners: Seraphon

Overview of Seraphon faction:

The Seraphon are ancient lizard-like creatures hailing from the realm of Azyr. Created by the Old Ones, these celestial beings embody the power of order and wage war against the forces of Chaos. Seraphon armies are comprised of massive dinosaurs, skink handlers, and powerful celestial beings, making them a visually stunning and diverse faction within Age of Sigmar.

The lore surrounding the Seraphon is deeply rooted in ancient civilizations and cosmic power. Their origins as celestial beings give them a unique and mystical presence on the battlefield, making them an enticing choice for players seeking a combination of prehistoric creatures and celestial magic.

Beginner-friendly aspects of the army:

The Seraphon possess several beginner-friendly aspects that make them an excellent choice for newcomers. One of the most notable aspects is their resilience. Many Seraphon units have high armor saves and the ability to ignore rend, making them durable on the battlefield. This resilience provides beginners with the opportunity to make mistakes and learn from them without facing immediate defeat.

Additionally, the Seraphon offer versatility and adaptability. Their army composition allows for a mix of heavy-hitting dinosaurs, swift skinks, and celestial spellcasting. This flexibility allows beginners to experiment with different unit types and playstyles, discovering their preferences and adapting their strategies as they become more familiar with the game.

Recommended units and tactics for beginners:

For beginners venturing into the Seraphon faction, a well-rounded force can be built around Saurus Warriors. These battle-hardened reptilian warriors form the backbone of the army, providing solid melee capabilities and durability. Their ability to wield powerful melee weapons makes them reliable in close combat.

Skinks offer tactical versatility, excelling in ranged combat and skirmishing. They can shower the enemy with darts and javelins while providing excellent mobility on the battlefield. Skink units also serve as handlers for the larger Seraphon creatures, further enhancing their utility.

In terms of tactics, beginners can focus on utilizing the Seraphon’s resilience and adaptability to their advantage. Their ability to weather enemy assaults and counter with powerful melee attacks makes them a formidable force in combat. Additionally, the celestial magic of the Seraphon allows for strategic spellcasting and buffs, further augmenting the army’s capabilities.

Key strengths and weaknesses:

One of the key strengths of the Seraphon is their adaptability. Their diverse range of units and abilities allows for a wide variety of tactical options. Whether it’s employing heavy-hitting dinosaurs to smash through enemy lines or utilizing nimble skinks to flank and harass opponents, the Seraphon offer a versatile toolbox for beginners to explore.

Furthermore, the Seraphon possess strong synergy between their units. Abilities like the Saurus Warriors’ Saurus Oldblood or the Skink Priest’s summoning spells enhance the performance of nearby units, creating a cohesive and synergistic force on the tabletop. This synergy adds depth to gameplay and rewards strategic positioning and coordination.

However, one weakness of the Seraphon is their relatively higher point costs for some of their more powerful units. This can limit the number of models available for a beginner’s army within a given point limit. Strategic army composition and prioritizing units that offer value for points becomes crucial in overcoming this limitation.

They also got a recent glow up with a bunch of new and improved units in their army complete with an army box.

The Seraphon provide beginners with a visually stunning and versatile army choice. Their resilience, adaptability, and strong unit synergy make them accessible and rewarding to play. By fielding units such as Saurus Warriors and Skinks and capitalizing on their versatility, beginners can harness the power of the celestial lizard creatures and bring order to the Mortal Realms.

#4. Best Age of Sigmar Army for Beginners: Flesh-Eater Courts

Overview of Flesh-Eater Courts faction:

The Flesh-Eater Courts are a grotesque and delusional army, comprised of cannibalistic ghouls and their deranged leaders. These frenzied warriors believe themselves to be noble knights and their feasts to be grand banquets. In reality, they are twisted creatures corrupted by their own madness. The Flesh-Eater Courts are a unique and unsettling faction within Age of Sigmar, offering a dark and macabre playstyle.

The lore surrounding the Flesh-Eater Courts is steeped in madness and deception. Led by powerful Abhorrant Archregents, the army presents a haunting and mysterious presence on the battlefield. Their twisted backstory and relentless hunger for flesh make them an intriguing choice for those drawn to the grim and macabre aspects of the Mortal Realms.

Beginner-friendly aspects of the army:

The Flesh-Eater Courts possess several beginner-friendly aspects that make them an intriguing choice for new players. One such aspect is their simplicity in gameplay. Their units often have straightforward rules and abilities, allowing beginners to focus on core mechanics without being overwhelmed by complex interactions.

Additionally, Flesh-Eater Courts models are often relatively easy to assemble. Their twisted and ghoulish forms require minimal intricate detailing, making them accessible for beginners who are still developing their modeling and painting skills. This aspect encourages creativity with gruesome and eerie paint schemes.

Recommended units and tactics for beginners:

For beginners venturing into the Flesh-Eater Courts faction, a key unit to include is Crypt Ghouls. These frenzied and cannibalistic creatures form the bulk of the army, overwhelming enemies through sheer numbers. Their ability to heal and bolster their attacks when near a Crypt Ghast Courtier adds durability and offensive capabilities.

Crypt Horrors offer a more monstrous and resilient option. These terrifying creatures possess powerful melee attacks and the ability to shrug off wounds, making them effective in close combat engagements. They can serve as a formidable anchor for the army.

In terms of tactics, beginners can focus on utilizing the Flesh-Eater Courts’ mobility and relentless assault to their advantage. Their ability to move quickly across the battlefield and charge into combat allows them to catch opponents off-guard and apply constant pressure. By engaging in close combat and overwhelming opponents with their numbers, beginners can maximize the army’s strengths.

Key strengths and weaknesses:

One of the key strengths of the Flesh-Eater Courts is their resilience in combat. Their units have the ability to heal wounds through feasting, ensuring they can sustain themselves and keep fighting. This resilience allows beginners to make tactical mistakes and learn from them without facing immediate defeat.

Furthermore, the Flesh-Eater Courts possess strong offensive capabilities. Units such as Crypt Ghouls and Crypt Horrors can dish out significant damage in close combat, overwhelming enemy forces with their frenzied attacks.

However, one weakness of the Flesh-Eater Courts is their lack of ranged firepower. The army predominantly relies on close combat engagements, which can make it challenging to deal with opponents who excel at long-range or shooting attacks. Strategic positioning and utilizing the army’s mobility become crucial in overcoming this limitation.

Another drawback is the limited model range. What they have are great, they just don’t have a lot.

The Flesh-Eater Courts offer a unique and unsettling army choice for beginners. Their simplicity in gameplay, easy assembly, and resilient playstyle make them accessible and engaging. By fielding units such as Crypt Ghouls and Crypt Horrors and capitalizing on their mobility and relentless assault, beginners can unleash the twisted hunger of the Flesh-Eater Courts upon the Mortal Realms.

#5. Best Age of Sigmar Army for Beginners: Idoneth Deepkin

Overview of Idoneth Deepkin faction:

The Idoneth Deepkin are enigmatic and mysterious aelven warriors who hail from the depths of the oceans. They are a highly specialized force, skilled in hit-and-run tactics and swift assaults. The Idoneth Deepkin are visually captivating, with a unique aesthetic that combines elements of aquatic creatures and aelven elegance. They offer a distinct and captivating playstyle within Age of Sigmar.

The lore surrounding the Idoneth Deepkin is shrouded in secrecy and tragedy. They are a faction that fights to reclaim their lost souls and survive the darkness of the deep seas. Their ethereal beauty, combined with their relentless combat prowess, make them an intriguing choice for players who seek a blend of elegance and martial skill.

Beginner-friendly aspects of the army:

The Idoneth Deepkin possess several beginner-friendly aspects that make them a fascinating choice for new players. One such aspect is their mobility. The ability to move swiftly across the battlefield, combined with their hit-and-run tactics, allows beginners to dictate engagements and control the flow of battle.

Additionally, Idoneth Deepkin models are visually stunning and relatively easy to assemble. Their sleek and intricate designs, reminiscent of aquatic creatures, offer opportunities for creative painting and unique color schemes. This aspect encourages beginners to explore their artistic side while building and painting their army. (Idoneth Deepkin is one of my favorite armies I’ve ever painted and played.)

Recommended units and tactics for beginners:

For beginners venturing into the Idoneth Deepkin faction, a key unit to include is Namarti Thralls. These underwater warriors form the backbone of the army, utilizing their versatile weapons to carve through enemy lines. Their ability to retreat and charge in the same turn complements the hit-and-run playstyle of the army.

Ishlaen Guard offer a more resilient option. These heavily armored eel riders excel at absorbing damage and protecting key units. Their powerful melee attacks and high toughness make them a formidable force on the battlefield.

In terms of tactics, beginners can focus on utilizing the Idoneth Deepkin’s hit-and-run abilities to their advantage. Striking from unexpected angles, engaging in combat, and then retreating before the enemy can fully respond allows for tactical flexibility and keeps opponents off-balance. Utilizing the speed and mobility of the army ensures that battles are fought on the player’s terms.

Key strengths and weaknesses:

One of the key strengths of the Idoneth Deepkin is their exceptional mobility. Their units, such as the Namarti Thralls and Ishlaen Guard, have the ability to move quickly across the battlefield and strike with precision. This mobility allows beginners to dictate engagements and control the tempo of the game.

Furthermore, the Idoneth Deepkin possess strong offensive capabilities. Units like the eel-mounted Akhelian Allopexes or the powerful Eidolons can deliver devastating attacks and eliminate key enemy threats swiftly.

However, one weakness of the Idoneth Deepkin is their relatively lower resilience. While they excel at hit-and-run tactics, prolonged engagements can be challenging for the army. This necessitates strategic positioning and careful selection of targets to maximize the army’s strengths while minimizing the risk of being overwhelmed in extended combats.

Idoneth Deepkin offer a visually stunning and dynamic army choice for beginners. Their mobility, elegance, and hit-and-run playstyle make them accessible and engaging. By fielding units such as Namarti Thralls and Ishlaen Guard and capitalizing on their swift assaults, beginners can harness the power of the enigmatic Idoneth Deepkin and dominate the depths of the Mortal Realms.

The Five Worst Age of Sigmar Armies for Beginners

#1. Worst Age of Sigmar Army for Beginners: Skaven

The Skaven, a race of rat-like creatures, are notorious for their treachery, swarming hordes, and devious tactics. While they offer a unique and exciting playstyle, they can be challenging for beginners due to the following factors:

Overview:

Skaven armies consist of a vast array of creatures, from lowly Clanrats to fearsome Warlords and monstrous Verminlords. Their playstyle revolves around overwhelming opponents with sheer numbers, cunning strategies, and unpredictable attacks. They have access to various specialized units and abilities that make them a versatile and formidable force on the battlefield.

Beginner-Unfriendly Aspects:

Complexity of gameplay and rules: Skaven armies have a reputation for their intricate gameplay mechanics and complex rules interactions. With a wide variety of unit types and subfactions, understanding the synergies between units and maximizing their effectiveness requires a deeper understanding of the faction’s intricate strategies. Skaven players need to carefully manage their hordes, utilize sneaky ambushes, and employ various specialized tactics to gain an edge in battle. This complexity can be overwhelming for beginners who are still developing their grasp of the core rules of Age of Sigmar.

Ease of assembly and painting: Skaven models can be challenging to assemble and paint, especially for those new to the hobby. The Skaven range includes numerous small, delicate components and intricate details, making the assembly process more time-consuming and potentially frustrating. And, honestly, some of the sculpts you’re working with are 25 years old. Technology in model production has skipped the Skaven and they’re waiting for their refresh.

Key Strengths and Weaknesses:

Key Strengths: Skaven armies excel in overwhelming opponents with sheer numbers and devious tactics. They possess a wide range of unit options and synergy possibilities, allowing for versatile playstyles. Clanrats, for example, form the backbone of the army, benefiting from their ability to overwhelm enemies with masses of cheap but numerous units. Skaven armies also have access to powerful War Machines like Warp Lightning Cannons and Doomwheels, which can devastate enemy forces. The Skaven allegiance abilities, such as Skaven Ambush and Gnawholes, provide tactical advantages and unpredictable elements to catch opponents off-guard.

Weaknesses: Skaven armies tend to have lower individual model durability and can be vulnerable to focused attacks. Their reliance on synergy and numbers requires careful management to avoid being overwhelmed. Additionally, the faction’s power comes at a price – Skaven units are notorious for their treacherous nature, leading to a higher chance of infighting and unpredictable behavior on the battlefield. This can create challenges in maintaining cohesion and executing strategic plans.

While the Skaven offer an exciting and unique playstyle, their complexity in gameplay and rules, along with the challenges of assembly and painting, can make them more hard for beginners. Still, the very first Games Workshop model I ever put together was a Skaven when I was eleven years old, and I remember the thrill of imagining a horde of shrieking ratmen thundering across the table.

#2. Worst Age of Sigmar Army for Beginners: Beasts of Chaos

The Beasts of Chaos are a faction that embodies the wild and untamed forces of nature. Composed of various monstrous creatures and mutated beasts, they bring chaos and destruction to the Mortal Realms. While they offer a unique and primal playstyle, the Beasts of Chaos can present challenges for beginners due to the following factors:

Overview:

Beasts of Chaos armies are a terrifying force that revels in the chaos and unpredictability of the natural world. Their ranks are filled with creatures like monstrous bull-like minotaurs, savage Gors, and mythical Dragon Ogors. Led by powerful Bray-Shamans, these beasts charge into battle with ferocity and raw power.

Beginner-Unfriendly Aspects:

Complexity of gameplay and rules: Beasts of Chaos armies have unique summoning mechanics and complex synergies between units. Their summoning abilities allow them to bring reinforcements onto the battlefield through rituals, requiring a good understanding of timing and strategic decision-making. The faction’s gameplay also relies heavily on careful positioning, resource management, and maximizing synergistic effects to unleash devastating assaults. This complexity may be overwhelming for beginners who are still familiarizing themselves with the core rules and mechanics of Age of Sigmar.

Collecting and painting: Beasts of Chaos models are getting old, really old. And while they’re not as fiddly to put together as the Skaven or the Sylvaneth, they are in dire need of a glow up.

Key Strengths and Weaknesses:

Key Strengths: Beasts of Chaos armies excel in aggression and chaos. They possess a wide range of monstrous units, each with their own unique abilities and raw power. Their units are often fast, hard-hitting, and have the potential to overwhelm opponents through aggressive charges. Beasts of Chaos armies also have access to powerful magic through their Bray-Shamans, allowing them to cast spells and unleash devastating magical effects. Their ability to summon reinforcements onto the battlefield adds an element of surprise and flexibility.

Weaknesses: Beasts of Chaos armies may have limited ranged options and strategic adaptability compared to other factions. This can make it challenging to deal with opponents who excel at long-range or shooting attacks. Additionally, their reliance on close combat engagements means they need to carefully manage their charges and ensure they are in the optimal position to deliver devastating blows. Their units, while powerful individually, can be vulnerable to focused firepower and well-coordinated defenses.

Beasts of Chaos offer a wild and untamed playstyle, but their complexity in gameplay and rules, as well as the challenges of collecting, can make them more daunting for beginners. However, for those who appreciate the chaotic nature of the faction and enjoy the thrill of unleashing monstrous beasts upon their foes, mastering the strategic elements and finding synergies within the Beasts of Chaos army can lead to a deeply satisfying and immersive experience. .

#3. Worst Age of Sigmar Army for Beginners: Sylvaneth

The Sylvaneth are an ancient and mystical faction deeply connected to the spirit of the forests and the realms of nature. Composed of ethereal and sentient beings known as the Tree-Revenants, powerful and ancient spirits called Kurnoth Hunters, and massive treelike creatures called Treelords, they defend the sacred groves and unleash the power of nature upon their foes. While they offer a unique and enchanting playstyle, the Sylvaneth can present challenges for beginners due to the following factors:

Overview:

Sylvaneth armies embody the harmony between nature and magic. Their units are intricately designed, with a focus on organic forms, foliage, and a mystical aesthetic. Led by ancient and wise beings, the Sylvaneth seek to preserve the balance of nature and protect the realms from corruption.

Beginner-Unfriendly Aspects:

Complexity of gameplay and rules: Sylvaneth armies have unique mechanics tied to their summonable Wyldwoods and intricate abilities. Wyldwoods are summoned forests that affect movement, spellcasting, and provide defensive benefits. Understanding how to strategically position and utilize these Wyldwoods, as well as the synergistic abilities between units, requires a deeper understanding of the faction’s intricacies. Additionally, managing the unique spellcasting abilities of the faction’s powerful wizards, known as Branchwraiths and Arch-Revenants, adds an extra layer of complexity. This complexity may be overwhelming for beginners who are still familiarizing themselves with the core rules and tactical considerations of Age of Sigmar.

Ease of assembly and painting: Sylvaneth models often are very fiddly, with little twigs and branches that can break off easily and are impossible to pin. Also, while they’re a good candidate for a basic wash-and-drybrush paint scheme, painting trees and doing anything other than brown takes some artistic talent.

Key Strengths and Weaknesses:

Key Strengths: Sylvaneth armies excel in strategic positioning, defensive capabilities, and ethereal magic. The summonable Wyldwoods provide tactical advantages, such as enhanced movement and spellcasting, while also acting as defensive terrain. Their units, such as Tree-Revenants and Kurnoth Hunters, possess unique abilities that allow them to strike from unexpected angles and deliver devastating blows. The powerful spellcasting capabilities of their wizards add another layer of versatility and disruption to their gameplay.

Weaknesses: Sylvaneth armies may have a steeper learning curve due to their reliance on tactical positioning and understanding the interactions between units and their environment. Navigating the intricacies of the summonable Wyldwoods and maximizing their benefits requires experience and careful planning. Additionally, some Sylvaneth units may have lower durability compared to heavily armored factions, making them more susceptible to focused attacks if not positioned strategically.

The Sylvaneth faction offers a captivating and magical experience for those who embrace the spirits of the woods. While their complexity in gameplay and rules, as well as the challenges of assembly and painting, may pose initial hurdles for beginners, delving into the strategic possibilities of Wyldwoods, mastering the synergy between units, and developing painting skills to bring the ethereal beauty of the Sylvaneth to life will reward beginners with an enchanting and immersive journey through the mystical realms of nature.

#4 Worst Age of Sigmar Army for Beginners: Fyreslayers

The Fyreslayers are a relentless faction of fiery warriors driven by an unquenchable desire for gold and the fiery essence of ur-gold. Clad in mighty Magmadroth scales and wielding enchanted rune weapons, they seek out battles to gather precious ur-gold and fulfill their sworn oaths. While they offer a unique and powerful playstyle, the Fyreslayers can present challenges for beginners due to the following factors:

Overview:

Fyreslayers are fearsome warriors who have forged a deep connection with the fiery essence of ur-gold. Their army consists of hardened fighters known as Hearthguard, swift and agile Auric Runesons, and mighty Magmadroths. They hail from the volcanic realms and are known for their relentless pursuit of battles and the pursuit of wealth.

Beginner-Unfriendly Aspects:

Complexity of gameplay and rules: Fyreslayers have unique mechanics related to forging runes and various prayers. Each Fyreslayer unit possesses its own specific prayer ability, granting different bonuses and effects. Managing these prayers, allocating runes, and making tactical decisions based on their effects require a deeper understanding of the faction’s intricacies. This complexity can be overwhelming for beginners who are still familiarizing themselves with the core rules and mechanics of Age of Sigmar.

Ease of assembly and painting: To be frank, collecting Fyreslayers is BORING. Every unit and character, it seems, is a bare chested, red-headed dwarf carrying axes. They’re all so very similar, and similar could be forgiven if the similarity was interesting, but it’s just not. But that Magmadroth is cool.

Key Strengths and Weaknesses:

Key Strengths: Fyreslayers excel in close combat, offering durable units and powerful melee capabilities. Clad in their sturdy Magmadroth scales and wielding enchanted rune weapons, they strike fear into the hearts of their enemies. Fyreslayers also possess unique abilities such as the ability to summon fiery runes that enhance their abilities or protect them from harm. Their resilience and ability to withstand punishment make them a formidable force on the battlefield.

Weaknesses: Fyreslayers may have limited unit variety compared to other armies, focusing primarily on melee-oriented fighters. This can limit their tactical options and adaptability in certain situations. Additionally, their reliance on close combat engagements can make them vulnerable to ranged attacks. Ranged-focused armies or opponents with strong shooting capabilities can exploit this weakness and chip away at the Fyreslayers’ forces before they can close in for the kill.

The Fyreslayers faction offers a fierce and determined playstyle for those who embrace the heat of battle. While their complexity in gameplay and rules, along with the challenges of assembly and painting, can make them more challenging for beginners, it is through overcoming these obstacles that beginners can fully appreciate the fiery fury and unyielding determination of the Fyreslayers.

#5. Worst Age of Sigmar Army for Beginners: Sons of Behemat

The Sons of Behemat are a towering and mighty faction consisting of gargantuan giants that stride across the battlefield. These colossal beings wield massive weapons and possess unparalleled strength and resilience. While they offer a visually striking and unique playstyle, the Sons of Behemat can present challenges for beginners due to the following factors:

Overview:

Sons of Behemat armies revolve around the immense power and size of their gargant units. These towering giants, such as Mega-Gargants, Gatebreakers, and Krakens, dominate the battlefield with their raw might and devastating attacks. They are a force to be reckoned with, capable of smashing through enemy lines and wreaking havoc.

Beginner-Unfriendly Aspects:

Complexity of gameplay and rules: Sons of Behemat have unique rules and mechanics tied to their gargant units. Managing their massive bases, understanding their specialized abilities, and maximizing their impact on the battlefield require careful attention and strategic planning. Beginners may find it challenging to grasp these mechanics, especially if they are still learning the fundamental rules of Age of Sigmar.

Ease of assembly and painting: Sons of Behemat models are massive in size and complexity, making them a large canvas to paint. And you want to do a good job on them, too, because your army will contain only three or four of them and they cost a ton.

Key Strengths and Weaknesses:

Key Strengths: Sons of Behemat possess unparalleled size and raw power. Their gargant units can absorb substantial amounts of damage, and their immense strength allows them to deal devastating blows to enemy units. The Sons of Behemat excel in breaking through enemy lines, demolishing fortifications, and creating chaos on the battlefield. Additionally, their presence alone can exert psychological pressure on opponents, forcing them to rethink their strategies.

Weaknesses: Sons of Behemat armies consist of a small number of models due to the colossal size of each gargant. While their individual units are powerful, they may lack the tactical flexibility and resilience provided by larger, more numerous armies. This limitation makes them vulnerable to focused attacks and attrition, as opponents can focus their efforts on eliminating these high-value targets. Additionally, their size can restrict movement and make it more challenging to navigate tight spaces or maneuver through difficult terrain.

The Sons of Behemat offer a visually stunning and imposing playstyle. However, their complexity in gameplay and rules, along with the challenges of assembly and painting, can make them more daunting for beginners. Despite these challenges, beginners who appreciate the sheer might and spectacle of the Sons of Behemat can embark on an exciting journey of learning and growth.