Games Workshop has announced plans to construct a new Warhammer World venue in the United States, targeting an opening in late 2027. The facility will be located near Washington D.C. This expansion aims to create a flagship destination for the Warhammer franchise, building upon the model of the existing Warhammer World in Nottingham, England.
Venue Details and Purpose
The new US Warhammer World is intended to serve as a central hub celebrating various aspects of the Warhammer franchise, including gaming, painting, modeling, storytelling, events, and community engagement. Games Workshop stated the new location will not be a direct replica of its UK counterpart but will aim to provide an equivalent quality and experience for fans.
The existing Warhammer World in Nottingham, England, serves as a central location for Games Workshop's tabletop games and hobby activities. It features an exhibition center displaying large-scale dioramas depicting scenes from Warhammer 40,000 and Age of Sigmar. The Nottingham venue also includes a castle-themed gaming hall for matches and tournaments, a themed bar and restaurant, miniature painting areas, and a store offering exclusive products.
Context of Franchise Growth
The decision to expand follows a period of increased popularity for the Warhammer 40,000 franchise. This growth extends beyond its traditional tabletop origins and is attributed to several factors. These include a dedicated fanbase engaged with its lore, the release of new novels, and the success of video game titles such as Space Marine 2. The character Titus from Space Marine 2 has also influenced the tabletop game's narrative.
Further developments contributing to the franchise's reach include an upcoming Warhammer 40,000 Cinematic Universe, currently in development for Amazon and led by Henry Cavill. The franchise also anticipates future releases, including the 11th Edition of Warhammer 40,000, along with ongoing lore updates and new model releases. Additional video game titles, such as Space Marine 3, Dawn of War 4, and Total War: Warhammer 40,000, are in various stages of development or receiving updates.