Only War PDF: A Comprehensive Guide (Updated 02/18/2026)
Today, February 18th, 2026, this guide compiles available Only War PDFs, including the Core Rulebook, Game Master’s Kit, and supplemental materials like Hammer of the Emperor.
What is Only War?
Only War is a tabletop roleplaying game set within the grim darkness of the far future, specifically the Warhammer 40,000 universe. Unlike many 40k games focusing on elite characters, Only War places players in the roles of ordinary Imperial Guardsmen – the vast, expendable soldiery fighting for humanity’s survival.
The game emphasizes the brutal realities of war, focusing on mortal characters facing overwhelming odds. It’s a system designed to capture the feel of being a small cog in a massive, uncaring machine, yet still finding camaraderie and hope amidst the constant conflict. Available as a comprehensive PDF, Only War provides a framework for intense, narrative-driven campaigns.
Players experience the 41st millennium through the eyes of those on the front lines, battling against countless enemies and struggling to uphold the Imperium of Man.
The Core Rulebook: Overview and Contents
The Only War Core Rulebook PDF, currently available in various versions (including redacted editions), is the foundational text for playing the game. Weighing in at approximately 84.4 MB, it contains everything needed to create characters, run campaigns, and experience the horrors of the 41st millennium.
Contents include detailed rules for character creation, skill advancement, and combat. It outlines the various roles within an Imperial Guard regiment, from command staff to frontline soldiers. The PDF also provides extensive background information on the Imperium of Man and its enemies, alongside introductory adventures to kickstart gameplay.
Expect comprehensive sections on weaponry, equipment, and the unique challenges faced by Guardsmen.
Available PDF Versions of the Core Rulebook
Several Only War Core Rulebook PDF versions circulate online, catering to different needs and preferences. The primary English version, around 84.4 MB in size, is the most complete and recommended for new players. However, redacted versions (like “Redacted2”) exist, potentially lacking certain content.
Russian translations are also available, specifically versions 1.02 (37.6 MB) and 1.03 (38.5 MB), offering accessibility to a wider audience. Older Russian versions (Rus) at 40.2 MB are also found. Be cautious when downloading, verifying source legitimacy.
These PDFs are often shared via platforms like MediaFire, but availability can fluctuate. Always prioritize obtaining a complete, verified copy for the best gaming experience.
English Core Rulebook PDFs
The definitive Only War Core Rulebook PDF in English is approximately 84.4 MB in size. This version provides the complete ruleset for experiencing the grim darkness of the far future. It’s the most widely recommended version for both new and experienced roleplaying gamers.
However, be aware that older or “redacted” versions (labeled as “Redacted2” in some instances) are also available. These may be incomplete or lack certain rules or content. Exercise caution when downloading from unofficial sources.
Ensure the PDF is a complete file to fully enjoy the Only War experience, allowing for comprehensive character creation and engaging combat scenarios.
Russian Core Rulebook PDFs (Versions 1.02 & 1.03)
For players preferring the Russian language, translated versions of the Only War Core Rulebook are available. Version 1.02 is approximately 37.6 MB, while the updated Version 1.03 is slightly larger at 38.5 MB. These PDFs offer a complete localization of the tabletop RPG experience.
An older Russian version, simply labeled “Rus,” exists at around 40.2 MB. However, versions 1.02 and 1.03 are generally recommended for their accuracy and completeness. These translated rulebooks allow a wider audience to immerse themselves in the brutal realities of the 41st millennium.
Download links can be found through various online sources, offering accessibility to Russian-speaking gamers.
Older/Redacted Core Rulebook Versions
Several older and partially redacted versions of the Only War Core Rulebook circulate online. “Only War Core Rulebook Redacted2” is one such example, with file sizes around 94 MB (33 pages). These versions often lack complete content due to removal or censorship, impacting gameplay.
The “Final Testament” PDF is explicitly noted as removed and redacted, suggesting significant alterations. While these versions may offer a glimpse into earlier iterations of the system, they are not recommended for serious play.
Accessing a complete, unredacted copy of the current core rulebook is crucial for a fulfilling Only War experience. Be cautious when downloading from unofficial sources.
The Game Master’s Kit PDF
The Only War: Game Master’s Kit PDF is a vital supplement for running campaigns. Containing approximately 32 pages, it provides essential tools and resources for the Game Master (GM). This kit enhances the core rulebook, offering pre-generated content to streamline preparation.
Expect to find introductory adventures designed to immerse players in the grim darkness of the 41st millennium. These scenarios are perfect for new groups or one-shot sessions. The kit aids in crafting compelling narratives and managing the complexities of the Only War system.
A direct download link, as of 2013, was available via MediaFire (http://mastig…).
Key Features of the Only War System
Only War distinguishes itself through a deliberate focus on portraying mortal characters within the vast, unforgiving Warhammer 40,000 universe. Unlike systems featuring superhuman heroes, players embody Imperial Guardsmen facing overwhelming odds. This creates a uniquely tense and desperate atmosphere.
A core tenet of the system is the emphasis on camaraderie and hope. Despite the grim setting and constant threat of annihilation, the bonds between soldiers and the enduring spirit of humanity are central themes. The rules actively support roleplaying these vital connections.
The system aims to capture the feel of being a small cog in a massive war machine, struggling to survive and maintain faith in the Imperium.
Focus on Mortal Characters
Only War fundamentally differs from many tabletop RPGs by centering gameplay around the experiences of ordinary Imperial Guardsmen – soldiers who are decidedly not superhuman. This deliberate design choice is paramount to the system’s identity. Players aren’t elite Space Marines; they are vulnerable individuals thrust into horrific conflicts.
The rules reflect this vulnerability. Characters are easily injured, and death is a constant possibility. Success isn’t guaranteed, and even small victories come at a significant cost. This realism fosters a sense of desperation and heightens the impact of every decision.
This focus allows players to experience the 40k universe from a relatable, grounded perspective.
Camaraderie and Hope in a Grim Setting
Despite the relentlessly bleak and oppressive backdrop of the Warhammer 40,000 universe, Only War emphasizes the importance of bonds forged in the fires of conflict. The system actively encourages players to develop strong relationships with their fellow soldiers, recognizing that camaraderie is often the only thing keeping them sane.
Mechanics support this, rewarding cooperative actions and highlighting the shared struggles of the unit. Even amidst overwhelming odds and constant loss, the game champions the enduring power of hope – a fragile but vital flame in the darkness.
This balance between grim reality and resilient spirit defines the Only War experience.
Character Creation in Only War
Only War’s character creation diverges from typical RPGs, focusing on Imperial Guard soldiers rather than exceptional heroes. Players define their character’s background, skills, and psychological profile, reflecting the harsh realities of military life.
The process emphasizes specialization within the regiment, choosing from a variety of roles like medics, heavy weapon specialists, or command staff. Character sheets, available as PDFs, guide players through assigning attributes, selecting skills, and defining their character’s flaws and motivations.
Unlike systems built around power progression, Only War focuses on how a character reacts to adversity, making each soldier feel grounded and relatable.
Combat Mechanics in Only War
Only War’s combat system prioritizes realism and the brutal consequences of warfare within the 41st millennium. It moves away from heroic fantasy, emphasizing cover, suppression, and the fragility of human life. The core mechanic revolves around opposed skill checks, determining success or failure in actions like shooting, melee combat, or tactical maneuvers.
PDF versions of the core rulebook detail intricate rules for weapon characteristics, armor penetration, and critical hits. Morale plays a crucial role; units can break under fire, impacting their effectiveness.
Combat isn’t about winning easily, but surviving, and the PDFs provide the tools to simulate that desperate struggle.
The Role of the Game Master
Only War’s Game Master (GM) faces a unique challenge: portraying the grim darkness of the far future and the overwhelming power of the Imperium. The GM isn’t simply a referee, but a world-builder, responsible for creating a believable and oppressive atmosphere. PDF resources, like the Game Master’s Kit, offer guidance on crafting compelling narratives and managing the complexities of Imperial bureaucracy.
Successfully running Only War requires a focus on logistical details – supply lines, requisitioning, and the constant threat of corruption. The GM must balance tactical combat with the psychological toll of war on their players’ characters.
Introductory Adventures and Scenarios
Only War excels at plunging players directly into the brutal realities of the 41st millennium. While the Core Rulebook provides the foundation, finding pre-written introductory adventures can ease the burden on new Game Masters. These scenarios are designed to familiarize players with the system’s mechanics and the setting’s grim tone.
Many online communities and forums offer custom-made scenarios, often available as PDF downloads. These adventures typically focus on small-scale engagements, allowing players to experience the challenges of Imperial soldiery without being overwhelmed. The goal is to immerse them in the chaos of war, fostering camaraderie and a sense of desperate hope.
Character Sheets and Unit Rosters (PDF Availability)
Essential for gameplay, readily available PDF character sheets and unit rosters streamline Only War sessions. Players require individual character sheets to track skills, traits, and equipment, while the Game Master needs unit rosters to manage entire squads. Fortunately, several sources offer downloadable PDFs tailored for Only War.
Specifically, a dedicated “Only War Character Sheet” PDF (approximately 4.8MB) and a “List of Detachment” PDF (around 2.4MB) are frequently circulated online. These pre-formatted sheets simplify record-keeping, reducing in-game downtime. Utilizing these PDFs ensures a smoother, more immersive experience, allowing players to focus on the narrative and tactical challenges of the game.
The Warhammer 40,000 Universe Context
Only War is deeply embedded within the grim darkness of the far future, the 41st millennium of the Warhammer 40,000 universe. Understanding this setting is crucial for appreciating the game’s tone and challenges. The core rulebook provides context, but players should familiarize themselves with the broader lore.
The game primarily focuses on the Imperium of Man, a vast, decaying galactic empire constantly at war. Players embody soldiers fighting to uphold the Imperium against countless threats. Common enemies include Chaos forces, xenos races (aliens), and internal rebellions. The PDFs immerse players in a universe defined by relentless warfare, religious fanaticism, and dwindling hope, where even victory comes at a terrible cost.
The Imperium of Man
Only War places players squarely within the ranks of the Imperium of Man’s military forces, the Astra Militarum. This galactic empire, spanning a million worlds, is a theocratic autocracy ruled by the immortal God-Emperor of Mankind. The Imperium is characterized by its immense scale, bureaucratic inefficiency, and unwavering devotion to survival.
PDF resources detail the Imperium’s rigid hierarchy, from lowly guardsmen to high-ranking officers. Players will encounter a society steeped in religious dogma, where faith in the Emperor is paramount. The Imperium’s constant state of war necessitates a relentless demand for soldiers, making the Astra Militarum its most vital asset. Understanding this context is key to roleplaying within the Only War system.
Common Enemies in Only War
Only War PDFs showcase a grimdark universe teeming with threats to the Imperium of Man. Players frequently confront the forces of Chaos, corrupted by the dark gods and seeking to unravel reality. The insidious Tyranids, an extragalactic hive mind, pose an existential threat, consuming all biomass in their path.
Orks, a brutal and warlike xenos race, offer relentless, chaotic combat. The technologically advanced Tau Empire presents a philosophical and military challenge. PDF materials detail each enemy’s tactics, strengths, and weaknesses, preparing players for desperate battles. These encounters emphasize the brutal realities of war within the 40k universe, demanding strategic thinking and unwavering courage.
Hammer of the Emperor PDF
Hammer of the Emperor is a supplemental PDF for Only War, expanding upon the core rulebook with additional scenarios and rules. This PDF focuses on large-scale military operations and the challenges of commanding Imperial forces. It provides Game Masters with tools to create epic campaigns, detailing logistical concerns, command structures, and the weight of responsibility borne by officers.
The Hammer of the Emperor PDF includes new wargear, unit types, and enemy encounters, enriching the tactical depth of the game. It’s a 42.3 MB file, readily available online, offering a deeper dive into the strategic aspects of warfare within the Warhammer 40,000 universe.
Final Testament (Removed/Redacted) PDFs
Final Testament was a planned supplement for Only War, but it was ultimately removed and heavily redacted by Games Workshop. PDF versions of this content circulate online, though their availability is often unreliable and their legality questionable. These PDFs represent a glimpse into earlier design iterations for the game, containing rules and lore that never made it into the final published product.
Due to its redacted nature, the Final Testament PDF is incomplete and often difficult to interpret. It’s important to note that using this material may not be fully compatible with the current Only War ruleset. Finding a complete, unredacted version is highly unlikely.
Resources for Finding Only War PDFs
Locating Only War PDFs can be challenging due to copyright restrictions and fluctuating online availability. MediaFire has historically been a source, with links circulating for the Core Rulebook and Game Master’s Kit, though these links may become broken over time. Other online sources, including various file-sharing websites and forums dedicated to tabletop RPGs, may host copies, but exercise caution when downloading from unfamiliar sites.
Always scan downloaded files with antivirus software. Be aware of the legal implications of downloading copyrighted material. Supporting Games Workshop through official purchases is the best way to ensure continued development of the Only War system.
MediaFire Links
MediaFire has served as a common repository for Only War PDFs, though link stability varies. As of recent reports, a link for the Core Rulebook (http://www.mediafire.com/view/?dr79h12xdccxz7a) was circulating in 2013, but its current functionality is uncertain. The Game Master’s Kit was also reportedly available via MediaFire through a link shared by “mastig,” though this link’s present status is unknown.
Users should be aware that these links are often user-uploaded and may be removed or become corrupted. Regularly checking forums and community sites is recommended to find updated MediaFire links, but always prioritize safe downloading practices and virus scans.
Other Online Sources
Beyond MediaFire, locating Only War PDFs often involves searching various online RPG communities and file-sharing platforms. Forums dedicated to Warhammer 40,000 roleplaying are prime locations for discovering shared links, though these are frequently transient. Caution is advised when utilizing these sources, as the legality and safety of downloads cannot always be guaranteed.
Some users have reported finding PDFs on sites specializing in tabletop RPG resources, but these often require registration or participation in the community. Always exercise due diligence, employing antivirus software and verifying file integrity before opening any downloaded PDF to mitigate potential risks.
Legal Considerations Regarding PDFs
Obtaining Only War PDFs through unofficial channels carries significant legal implications. As a commercial product of Games Workshop, unauthorized distribution and download constitute copyright infringement. Purchasing official PDFs directly from authorized retailers is the only legally sound method of acquisition.
Downloading from file-sharing sites or unverified sources risks supporting piracy and potentially exposing your device to malware. While finding older, redacted versions exists, accessing them is legally questionable. Supporting the creators by purchasing legitimate copies ensures continued development and support for the Only War system. Respecting intellectual property rights is crucial within the gaming community.
Differences Between Core Rulebook Editions
Only War has seen various iterations of its Core Rulebook, including redacted and complete versions. Early PDFs, like the “Redacted2” version, lacked substantial content present in the full release. These versions often served as previews or were circulated before the official launch.
The complete Core Rulebook PDF offers a comprehensive experience, encompassing all rules, character options, and background lore. Russian translations (versions 1.02 & 1.03) provide accessibility for a wider audience, though may contain minor translation differences. Identifying the edition is vital; newer PDFs benefit from errata and clarifications accumulated over time, ensuring a smoother gameplay experience.
Using Only War PDFs for Online Play
Only War PDFs are exceptionally well-suited for virtual tabletop (VTT) play. Utilizing screen sharing or dedicated VTT platforms allows Game Masters to present maps, rules, and character sheets directly from the PDF. Digital character sheets and unit rosters (available as separate PDFs) streamline character management during sessions.
Annotation tools within PDF readers enable real-time note-taking and rule referencing. Hyperlinking within the PDF facilitates quick navigation to specific rules or sections. Ensure all players have access to relevant PDF excerpts or the full rulebook for collaborative gameplay. This digital approach enhances accessibility and simplifies the logistical challenges of remote roleplaying.
Troubleshooting PDF Issues
Only War PDFs, being large files, can sometimes present challenges. Common issues include slow loading times or display errors. Ensure you have the latest version of a PDF reader like Adobe Acrobat. If a PDF appears corrupted, try downloading it again from a reliable source. Check file integrity after download.
For rendering problems, experiment with different PDF viewer settings, such as enabling or disabling hardware acceleration. If hyperlinks aren’t functioning, verify the PDF isn’t a scanned image without selectable text. Consider converting the PDF to a different format if issues persist. Always scan downloaded files for viruses.
Community Resources and Forums
Only War boasts a dedicated online community eager to assist players and Game Masters. Numerous forums and groups exist where enthusiasts share experiences, discuss rules interpretations, and offer advice on utilizing Only War PDFs. These platforms are invaluable for troubleshooting issues and discovering hidden gems within the system.
Dedicated Discord servers and Reddit communities provide real-time discussion and quick answers to questions. Many players also share custom content, character sheets, and unit rosters. Exploring these resources can significantly enhance your Only War experience, offering support and inspiration for campaigns. Seek out these communities to connect with fellow players!
The Importance of the Core Rulebook
The Only War Core Rulebook PDF is absolutely essential for anyone venturing into the grim darkness of the far future. It contains the foundational rules, character creation guidelines, and detailed setting information necessary to experience the game fully. Without it, understanding the unique mechanics – focusing on mortal characters facing overwhelming odds – becomes incredibly difficult.
This PDF provides the framework for immersive roleplaying within the Warhammer 40,000 universe. It’s not merely a rule set; it’s a gateway to crafting compelling narratives of sacrifice, camaraderie, and desperate survival. Accessing a complete, legible PDF ensures a smooth and enjoyable gaming experience for all involved.
Future of Only War PDF Availability
The future availability of Only War PDFs remains a topic of interest within the community, given past redactions like the Final Testament. While current PDFs, including the Core Rulebook and Game Master’s Kit, are accessible through various online sources like MediaFire, their long-term stability isn’t guaranteed.
Continued demand and potential re-releases could influence future official PDF availability. Community efforts to archive and preserve existing PDFs are crucial. Players should be aware of legal considerations when obtaining and sharing these files. Monitoring forums and online resources will be key to staying informed about any changes or updates regarding Only War PDF access.