"Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War Definitive Edition Revives 20-Year-Old RTS Classic"

Relic has thrilled fans by announcing Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War - Definitive Edition, a modernized take on their beloved 20-year-old real-time strategy classic. Set to launch on PC via Steam and GOG later this year, this edition retains the original gameplay fans cherish, now optimized for today's hardware. For an in-depth look at what's new, IGN's exclusive interview with design director Philippe Boulle is a must-read for any Dawn of War enthusiast.

The Dawn of War community has been vocal about wanting a revival of the series, and this Definitive Edition of the first game, widely regarded as one of the best, if not the best, Warhammer 40,000 games ever made, could be the perfect starting point. There's a strong hope that Relic will use this as a springboard to develop a new installment, perhaps even Dawn of War 4.

The Definitive Edition packs a comprehensive collection including all Dawn of War content and standalone expansions. This means four classic campaigns, nine armies, and over 200 maps, all seamlessly integrated into one game. It boasts 4K support, textures upscaled to four times their original resolution, and image-based lighting to enhance the visual experience while keeping the core gameplay intact. Enhancements like improved world lighting, unit reflections, and shadows, along with new unit gloss and emissive lighting, promise to bring the action to life in stunning detail.

The game also features an updated camera system that allows for a broader view of the battlefield and a HUD optimized for widescreen displays. Furthermore, the transition to a 64-bit platform not only improves performance but also supports the modding community's ongoing efforts. Upon release, it will be compatible with over two decades of community mods, ensuring a fresh and engaging experience for both new and returning players.

Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War - Definitive Edition Screenshots

View 11 Images

“The Definitive Edition celebrates the original Dawn of War and preserves the legacy of this landmark Warhammer 40,000 title for years to come,” stated Justin Dowdeswell, CEO at Relic Entertainment. He emphasized the goal to bring the classic Dawn of War experience to new players while giving long-time fans the opportunity to relive the entire saga.

Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War - Definitive Edition was unveiled during the Warhammer Skulls 2025 broadcast. If you missed the event, be sure to catch up on all the announcements and trailers to see what else is coming to the Warhammer universe.