The Dawn of War series is a set of real-time strategy games set in the Warhammer 40,000 universe. It started in 2004 and has sold over 7 million copies, making it one of the most successful Warhammer 40k video game franchises.
What is the Dawn of War series?
It’s a series of real-time strategy games developed by Relic Entertainment and based on Games Workshop’s tabletop wargame. The first game came out in 2004, and the series has since grown to include multiple sequels and expansions.
The games focus on tactical squad-based combat, capturing strategic points, and commanding iconic factions like Space Marines, Orks, and Eldar. They’re known for their fast-paced action and faithful adaptation of the Warhammer 40k setting.
The games and expansions
The original Dawn of War launched in 2004 and was followed by three expansions: Winter Assault (2005), Dark Crusade (2006), and Soulstorm (2008). A remastered version called the Definitive Edition came out in 2025, bundling all the content together.
The series also has three sequels: Dawn of War II (2009) with its own expansions Chaos Rising and Retribution, Dawn of War III (2017), and a fourth game planned for 2026. Each entry refined the formula, shifting focus between large-scale battles and smaller, hero-centric skirmishes.
| Game | Release year |
|---|---|
| Dawn of War | 2004 |
| Winter Assault (expansion) | 2005 |
| Dark Crusade (expansion) | 2006 |
| Soulstorm (expansion) | 2008 |
| Dawn of War II | 2009 |
| Chaos Rising (expansion) | 2010 |
| Retribution (expansion) | 2011 |
| Dawn of War III | 2017 |
| Dawn of War IV | 2026 |
Beyond the games: novels and comics
The Dawn of War series isn’t just video games. There are novels that tie into the games, many following the Blood Ravens chapter. These include Dawn of War, Tempest, Ascension, and novelizations of the second and third games.
There’s also a comic series called Dawn of War III: The Hunt for Gabriel Angelos, which expands on the story of one of the series’ central characters.
Why it matters
The Dawn of War series introduced countless fans to Warhammer 40k. Its success helped establish the franchise in video games and brought the grimdark universe to a wider audience.
It’s also praised for its gameplay innovations, like the strategic point capture system, which influenced later RTS games. For many, it’s the definitive Warhammer 40k video game experience.
Key facts
- The Dawn of War series is a real-time strategy franchise set in the Warhammer 40,000 universe.
- The original game was released in 2004 by Relic Entertainment and THQ.
- The series has sold over 7 million copies worldwide as of 2013.
- There are three expansions for the first game and two for the second.
- A remastered Definitive Edition came out in 2025.
- The series includes novels and a comic, many featuring the Blood Ravens chapter.
FAQ
How many Dawn of War games are there?
There are four main games: Dawn of War (2004), Dawn of War II (2009), Dawn of War III (2017), and Dawn of War IV (planned for 2026). The first two games also have several expansions.
What’s the Definitive Edition?
It’s a remastered version of the original Dawn of War and its three expansions, released in 2025. It updates the graphics and includes all previously released content.
Are the Dawn of War games canon to Warhammer 40k?
They’re set in the Warhammer 40k universe but tell their own stories. They’re considered part of the broader franchise, though not always strictly canon with the tabletop game’s lore.