How to Start a Necron Army: The Complete Beginner’s Guide

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Introduction: Starting Your First Necron Army

Starting a Necron army is one of the best ways to enter the world of Warhammer 40,000. Necrons are durable, easy to learn, and visually striking, making them an excellent choice for beginners.

However, new players often feel unsure about where to begin. Which units should you buy first? How do Necrons actually play? What do you need to get started?

This guide answers all of those questions. It provides a clear, step-by-step approach to building your first Necron army, including beginner tips, essential units, and recommended products.

What Is a Necron Army? (Clear Definition)

A Necron army is a force of ancient robotic warriors in Warhammer 40K that focus on durability, self-repair, and consistent firepower.

Key characteristics of Necron armies:

  • High durability and resilience
  • Reanimation abilities (units can return after being destroyed)
  • Strong shooting capabilities
  • Synergy between units and leaders

This makes Necrons one of the most forgiving armies for beginners.

Simple Explanation

Necrons are hard-to-kill robot soldiers that slowly wear down their enemies.

Beginner Overview: Why Choose Necrons?

Necrons are a popular starting army because they are easy to use and highly durable.

Why Necrons Are Beginner-Friendly

  • Units can come back to life (Reanimation Protocols)
  • Simple and reliable gameplay
  • Strong shooting units
  • Forgiving for mistakes

What You Need to Start

  • Necron miniatures
  • Basic rules
  • Paints and tools

If you are completely new, start here: How to Start Warhammer

Step-by-Step: How to Start a Necron Army

Step 1: Buy a Starter Set

The easiest way to begin is with the Warhammer 40,000 Introductory Set.

This set gives you:

  • Miniatures
  • Core rules
  • A structured introduction to gameplay

Learn more here: Warhammer Introductory Set Review

Step 2: Get Paints and Tools

To assemble and paint your army, you will need hobby supplies. The Warhammer 40K Paints and Tools Set is a great starting point.

Step 3: Build a Core Army

Start with a simple and effective force.

Recommended beginner units:

  • Necron Warriors (core infantry)
  • An Overlord (leader)
  • One support or specialist unit

This provides a strong foundation for your army.

Step 4: Expand Your Army

Once you understand the basics, you can expand with:

  • Elite infantry
  • Melee units
  • Heavy support units

Focus on balance rather than complexity.

Step 5: Assemble and Paint Your Models

Necrons are one of the easiest armies to paint, making them perfect for beginners.

Learn more here: How to Paint Warhammer Miniatures

Step 6: Play Your First Games

Start with small battles to learn the rules.

Focus on:

  • Movement and positioning
  • Shooting mechanics
  • Understanding reanimation abilities

Best Units for a Beginner Necron Army

Core Units

  • Necron Warriors – durable infantry
  • Immortals – stronger shooting units

Support Units

  • Overlord – provides buffs
  • Canoptek Scarabs – objective control

Specialist Units

  • Skorpekh Destroyers – melee damage
  • Doomsday Ark – heavy firepower

This combination creates a balanced army.

Necrons vs Other Warhammer Armies

Necrons vs Space Marines

  • Necrons: more durable and regenerative
  • Space Marines: more flexible

Necrons vs Tyranids

  • Necrons: methodical and resilient
  • Tyranids: fast and swarm-based

Necrons vs Chaos Marines

  • Necrons: reliable and durable
  • Chaos: powerful but complex

For example, Chaos units like Rubric Marines rely on psychic powers, while Necrons rely on durability and consistency.

Learn more here: Warhammer Factions Explained

Common Beginner Mistakes

  • Not including enough core infantry
  • Ignoring leader units
  • Buying too many complex units early
  • Overcomplicating army lists

Keep your army simple at the start.

Is a Necron Army Expensive?

Necrons are generally mid-range in cost.

  • Moderate model count
  • Durable units reduce replacements
  • Easy to expand gradually

Learn more here: Is Warhammer Expensive

FAQ: How to Start a Necron Army

What do I need to start a Necron army?

You need a starter set, Necron units, paints, and tools.

Are Necrons good for beginners?

Yes, they are durable, simple to use, and forgiving.

What units should I buy first?

Start with Necron Warriors, a leader, and a support unit.

How many models do I need?

You can start small and expand over time.

Are Necrons easy to paint?

Yes, they are one of the easiest factions to paint.

Where should I start?

Start with a beginner set and expand gradually. You can also read: Best Warhammer Starter Sets

Conclusion: Start Your Necron Army Today

Starting a Necron army is simple, rewarding, and beginner-friendly. Their durability, straightforward gameplay, and unique aesthetic make them one of the best choices for new players.

Follow a clear plan: begin with a starter set, build a core army, and expand gradually. Focus on learning the basics and enjoying the hobby.

Warhammer is a long-term hobby that combines strategy, creativity, and collecting. Starting a Necron army is your first step into that world.

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