So by now the word is breaking across the internet that Amazon will be teaming up with Games Workshop for the rights to the Warhammer 40k universe. This is an amazing and unreal moment for many of us who remember the days of actively hiding our participation in this hobby given how weird it was. A partnership with Amazon could be the ticket to a wild new future for the 40k setting, but it is still early yet.
One potential issue with this new arrangement is going to be a reckoning with certain aspects of the Imperium of Man. I feel like society right now is more okay with settings with no or few “good guys” but the fascistic elements of this society are both timely and challenging. As a satire, the 40k universe often goes over the top in its descriptions and lore. This has led to its un-ironic embrace by certain elements (interestingly across the political spectrum, though for different factions). As people start getting to know the universe and its quirks I just ask that we as fans don’t get too weird. The 40k setting is deeply rooted in fanatical characters of all stripes which are a lot of fun to read about and use on the table but might scare off people who would otherwise come to love the lore and setting. I am not saying don’t geek out, by all means go crazy, but maybe be aware that many people might not understand the irony of the setting and might take you seriously.
This is an amazing moment and one I have wondered would ever occur. We are seeing a confluence of events that offer unprecedented opportunities for Games Workshop and its fans. However, no adaptation is perfect (well except for the LotR trilogy) and how we adapt to the shortcomings and modifications demanded by this show is a big test of the fan base. Warhammer 40k has all the tools required to be an amazing IP and it has a unique niche that is undeserved. If done correctly, and carefully I don’t see why this isn’t the start of an It’s amazing future. time to be a fan and I can’t wait to be discussing any upcoming shows with you in the future!
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