The Top 5 Miniature Games of 2025

Miniature games have taken the world by storm, offering enthusiasts an immersive blend of strategy, artistry, and fun. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or just beginning to dive into this exciting hobby, miniature games provide an engaging experience that appeals to people of all ages. These games often involve intricate miniatures that players control in small-scale battles or competitions, with strategy and creativity playing a vital role in their success. As the popularity of miniature games continues to rise, many board game stores in Phoenix, AZ, have become hubs for players to find new releases, expand their collections, and connect with fellow enthusiasts. If you’re looking to explore the world of miniature games, here’s a look at the top 5 games that are currently dominating the scene.

Warhammer 40,000: A Universe of Endless Possibilities

One of the most well-known and beloved miniature games is Warhammer 40,000, a science-fiction-based tabletop game that immerses players in a dystopian future where factions battle for control of the galaxy. The game is set in the 41st millennium, where humanity is engaged in a never-ending war with various alien races, demons, and other sinister forces. Warhammer 40,000 offers players the opportunity to build their own army, complete with miniature models of soldiers, tanks, and monstrous creatures, each with their own abilities and strengths.

The appeal of Warhammer 40,000 lies in its vast and intricate lore, which allows players to create their own narratives and strategies. Every faction, whether it’s the noble Space Marines, the sinister Necrons, or the tyrannical Astra Militarum, has its own rich backstory and unique gameplay mechanics. The game encourages players to customize their armies with a wide range of miniatures, allowing for endless combinations and variations in how the game is played.

The hobby aspect of Warhammer 40,000 also sets it apart. Players spend hours assembling and painting their miniatures, turning each figure into a work of art. The level of detail in the miniatures is extraordinary, with intricate designs and a vast array of customization options. This makes Warhammer 40,000 not just a game, but a hobby that attracts both gamers and artists alike. Whether you’re playing for fun or competing in tournaments, Warhammer 40,000 is a must-try for anyone interested in miniature games.

Star Wars: Legion: A Battle for the Galaxy

For Star Wars fans, there’s no better way to engage with the iconic universe than through Star Wars: Legion, a fast-paced miniature game that allows players to command their own armies in the epic battle between the Rebel Alliance and the Galactic Empire. Set in the iconic Star Wars universe, this game allows players to build their forces using a variety of miniatures based on characters, vehicles, and units from the films and television series.

Star Wars: Legion is known for its tactical gameplay and engaging mechanics. The game focuses on small-scale skirmishes, where each unit plays a crucial role in the overall strategy. Players can control everything from foot soldiers like stormtroopers and rebel soldiers to iconic vehicles like AT-ATs, X-Wing fighters, and speeder bikes. The game encourages a balance between strategy and the dramatic flair of Star Wars, making it a fan-favorite for those who want to immerse themselves in the galaxy far, far away.

In addition to its tactical gameplay, Star Wars: Legion also excels in its miniature design. The miniatures are highly detailed and allow for a significant degree of customization, giving players the opportunity to paint and personalize their units. Whether you’re a beginner or a veteran, the game’s rule set is accessible, making it a great entry point for new players while still offering a level of depth for experienced strategists.

Warmachine & Hordes: Strategic Warfare at Its Finest

Warmachine and Hordes, created by Privateer Press, are two miniature games set in the same universe, offering players the chance to control powerful war machines and hordes of monstrous creatures in epic battles. While Warmachine focuses on armies led by mechanical warjacks and powerful commanders, Hordes is centered around primal forces that summon massive beasts and savage warriors. Both games are known for their deep strategic gameplay and unique faction mechanics, which provide a rich and rewarding experience for players.

What sets Warmachine and Hordes apart from other miniature games is the emphasis on “focus” and “fury.” In Warmachine, players manage resources in the form of focus points to control their warjacks, while in Hordes, players manage fury points to unleash the destructive power of their monstrous creatures. This adds a layer of strategy to every move, as players must carefully balance the use of their resources to avoid overcommitting and leaving themselves vulnerable to counterattacks.

The miniature design in both Warmachine and Hordes is stunning, with intricate details and a wide range of factions to choose from. Whether you prefer the cold, calculating machines of the Protectorate of Menoth or the primal fury of the Circle Orboros in Hordes, there’s a faction that will appeal to every type of player. The game also features a strong competitive scene, with local and national tournaments allowing players to test their skills against others.

Infinity: A Futuristic Skirmish with Complex Tactics

Infinity is a fast-paced, tactical miniature game set in a futuristic world where powerful factions engage in high-stakes skirmishes across the galaxy. Known for its deep strategic elements and complex rules, Infinity focuses on small-scale battles where every unit’s action can make a significant impact on the outcome of the game. Unlike other miniature games, Infinity emphasizes the use of cover, line-of-sight mechanics, and a dynamic order system that forces players to think several steps ahead.

One of the key features of Infinity is its emphasis on tactical depth. The game uses an order system that allows players to activate units in a way that creates opportunities for combined actions, ambushes, and surprises. The miniatures in Infinity are highly detailed, and the game allows for a significant degree of customization, letting players personalize their forces to fit their preferred playstyle.

Infinity is perfect for players who enjoy deep strategic gameplay and tactical thinking. The game encourages players to think on their feet, adapting to the ever-changing battlefield while making critical decisions about unit positioning and resource management. With its rich lore, stunning miniatures, and complex gameplay mechanics, Infinity has earned a dedicated following among miniature game enthusiasts.

Malifaux: A Dark and Mystical World

Malifaux is a unique miniature game that blends dark fantasy with steampunk elements, creating a rich and immersive world filled with dangerous creatures, powerful wizards, and mythical beasts. Set in an alternate reality, Malifaux pits players against each other in fast-paced skirmishes where strategy and deception play crucial roles. What sets Malifaux apart from other miniature games is its use of a card-driven system, where fate is determined not by dice but by a deck of cards that adds an element of uncertainty and excitement to every decision.

In Malifaux, players build their own crews, choosing from a wide variety of characters with unique abilities and strengths. The game focuses on objectives, forcing players to carefully plan their moves while trying to outsmart their opponents. The card system introduces an element of risk, as players must manage their hand of cards and decide when to push their luck or play it safe. The miniatures in Malifaux are highly detailed and feature a mix of gothic, Victorian, and steampunk designs, creating a visually striking game that stands out in the world of miniature games.

The unique mechanics and immersive world of Malifaux have made it a favorite among those looking for something different in their tabletop experience. Whether you’re drawn to the game’s dark lore, the strategic gameplay, or the visually stunning miniatures, Malifaux offers an experience like no other.

Conclusion

Miniature games offer a rich and rewarding experience for players of all skill levels. Whether you’re drawn to the sprawling universe of Warhammer 40,000, the tactical battles of Star Wars: Legion, or the intricate strategies of games like Warmachine and Hordes, there’s a miniature game for everyone. For those in Phoenix, AZ, who are looking to get started or expand their collections, the local board game stores offer a wealth of resources, from miniatures and rulebooks to expert advice and community connections. No matter where you are in your miniature gaming journey, these top five games provide a fantastic starting point for an unforgettable experience.

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