Summary of "Which 40k RPG should be your FIRST?"

Quick summary — which Warhammer 40,000 RPG to start with, and why

Choose by playstyle:

Want deep crunch, tactical combat, and lots of character/gear options → D100 games (start with Dark Heresy 2nd Edition).
Want fast, story‑focused play with simpler rules and current print support → Wrath and Glory.
Prefer a narrative‑dice toolkit or fan‑made 40k content → Genesys with the fan Dark Heresy supplement.

Big picture

The 40k RPGs generally split into two broad design philosophies:

Simulationist (D100 games from Fantasy Flight Games)
- Crunchy, detailed rules and deep character creation.
- Lots of gear, talents, and subsystems; combat is tactical and often benefits from maps/miniatures.
Narrative (Wrath and Glory)
- Lighter, faster rules focused on storytelling.
- Uses meta‑currencies to bend scenes; combat is quicker and suited to theatre‑of‑the‑mind play.

Gameplay highlights and differences

Simulationist / D100 games (e.g., Dark Heresy 2e and other FFG D100 titles)

Character and systems
- Deep customization, long talent lists, many subsystems.
- Relatively granular character/gear differentiation.
Combat and play feel
- Tactical, detailed combat (ranges, fire modes, cover, lighting, stances, weapon mods).
- Miniatures/maps are often useful; combat can feel like a tactical puzzle.
Pros
- Immersive and satisfying for players who enjoy building and optimizing characters.
- Great if you like wargame‑like tactics and simulationist detail.
Cons
- Rules can slow play and gate improvisation via talents/subsystems.
- Encounters may drag; requires more bookkeeping.
- Physical books are largely out of print (PDFs generally available).

Narrative (Wrath and Glory)

System and play feel
- One core mechanic for most situations, with simpler rules and meta‑currencies for player agency.
- Faster, smoother combat that’s easier to teach and run.
Pros
- Quick to pick up; great for story‑driven sessions and varied 40k narratives.
- Physical books and official support/expansions are currently available.
Cons
- Can feel mechanically shallower over time.
- Less distinctness between characters and gear compared to simulationist games.

Genesys (honorable mention)

A setting‑agnostic narrative system using FFG’s narrative dice.
There is a well‑made fan Dark Heresy supplement for Genesys, making it a good option if you prefer the narrative dice or a customizable toolkit.
Good middle ground for groups who want narrative mechanics but also 40k flavor via fan content.

Recommendations and key tips

Choose by playstyle:
- If you want detailed tactical combat, lots of gear and character builds, and don’t mind crunch: go D100 (Dark Heresy 2e recommended).
- If you want fast rules, story focus, easier teaching, and accessible physical books: choose Wrath and Glory.
Recommended first games for newcomers:
- Dark Heresy 2nd Edition — best D100 entry; relatively streamlined for the line.
- Wrath and Glory — pick this if you prefer narrative play or want current, in‑print books.
Games to avoid as a first experience (unless the GM or group is experienced):
- Rogue Trader — large sandbox, hard to run.
- Deathwatch — very combat‑heavy; focuses on long, tactical Space Marine fights.
- Black Crusade — extremely dark themes and potential player‑vs‑player conflict; can be off‑putting.
Practical considerations:
- If owning new/physical books matters and budget is limited: Wrath and Glory is actively in production and easier to find in print.
- If you value fan projects or narrative dice mechanics: consider Genesys + fan 40k material.
Group and GM considerations:
- Know your group’s tolerance for dark themes and PvP.
- Simulationist games reward experienced GMs; narrative games tend to be easier for new GMs to run.

Final quick checklist (pick a first game)

Want deep crunch, tactical combat, lots of toys → D100 (start with Dark Heresy 2e).
Want fast story focus, simpler rules, current support & prints → Wrath and Glory.
Want a narrative dice toolbox or fan‑made 40k content → Genesys (with fan Dark Heresy supplement).

Tip: If you’re unsure, ask your group what type of session they’d enjoy most (tactical, story, or a mix) — that single question usually points to the best system to start with.