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I've never played WH40k before, but I'm pretty familiar with the lore.

I want to do small-scale skirmish games; not looking to build a big army. The Dark Vengeance set looks perfect for me, but I'm wondering -- do I need anything to get started other than what's in the box, & terrain? Terrain isn't a big issue, as I'll mostly be playing at locals which have terrain available. What I'm really wondering is, do I need to buy the various Codex books to be able to play? Or is the included rule book sufficient?

Also, I realize there isn't a lot of customization with the Dark Vengeance set ... so, if I were to buy a box to customize each side, which should I get? I've got about $200 or so I can afford to drop all at once, & I want to get the most value I can

MTIA.

My first pick up after getting DV was to buy a second tactical squad from the same boxed set on eBay. You can get them for maybe $25.

Then I grabbed an Assault Squad.

Hi,

Welcome to Dakka

Welcome to Dakka!

The Dark Vengeance box set is a good start, it will have everything you need to play with the models included. It does not include paints or brushes, so you'll want to get some of those soon. Most players prefer to play against painted models. If you decide you like one particular army, then yes you will want to pick up the codex for that army, and go from there.

Welcome to Dakka Dakka!

Hey, Welcome to Dakka

Hi. Welcome to Dakka

Welcome! The punch bowl is over there. No shenanigans! The dean is watching.

DV is a good start and you can have some fun little games with that kit. Eventually you will want codices for your armies, but if you're playing at home with friends its not such a big deal. The DV kit does come with roster sheets for the models that get you playing right away, but you will find that having the books is so much nicer. I remember getting the Chaos side and thinking that was all fine and dandy, and then getting my hands on the codex and being able to make my own lists, it was a big deal.

Anyways, whichever route you go, have fun and try not to let Dakka take over your life. I know I only do two things online anymore...

There's definitely enough in DV to play a decent game, as others have said.

The Scout box for marines is fairly... well, not cheap, but it's not too pricy and it has some fun bits and pieces left over for your customizing fun.

Hello! Welcome to Dakka Dakka!