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

Relic Entertainment has officially announced Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War - Definitive Edition, a modernized reimagining of its iconic real-time strategy (RTS) classic that first launched two decades ago. Set to release later this year on PC via Steam and GOG, the Definitive Edition brings back the beloved original gameplay while ensuring it runs smoothly on contemporary hardware. For those eager to learn more, IGN offers an exclusive interview with design director Philippe Boulle, delving into every detail of the release—well worth checking out for any fan of the series.

This revival comes as a response to years of fan requests, with the original game widely regarded as one of the greatest Warhammer 40,000 titles ever created. Fans are hopeful this remaster serves as a springboard for a brand-new entry in the Dawn of War series, such as Dawn of War 4.

The Definitive Edition bundles together the original game and its expansions into a single package, featuring four classic campaigns, nine playable armies, and over 200 maps. Upgrades include full 4K support, enhanced textures (quadruple the resolution of the originals), and advanced image-based lighting for improved visual fidelity without losing the game’s timeless charm. Improvements extend to world lighting, unit reflections, and shadows, while new features like gloss effects and emissive lighting add depth to combat moments.

Players will enjoy a more expansive camera视角, allowing better visibility during battles, along with an optimized HUD and screen layout tailored for widescreen displays. Additionally, the game has been updated to a 64-bit platform, ensuring compatibility with both current and future modding efforts, as well as seamlessly integrating with over two decades of community-created modifications.

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

View 11 Images

“The Definitive Edition honors the original Dawn of War and ensures its legacy endures for generations to come,” stated Justin Dowdeswell, CEO of Relic Entertainment.

“With Warhammer 40,000 experiencing unprecedented popularity today, we aim to introduce new players to the roots of the Dawn of War franchise while offering longtime fans a chance to revisit their favorite moments in their entirety.”

The announcement came during the Warhammer Skulls 2025 broadcast. If you missed it, you can catch all the highlights and trailers from the event.