Iconic RTS Warhammer 40k Dawn of War dates remaster, with a discount for owners

21 years after it first won our hearts, Warhammer 40k: Dawn of War Definitive Edition is giving the magnificent RTS game the love it deserves. Developer Relic Entertainment has already teased that it would be overhauling its beloved classic, which blends the striking designs of 40k's Space Marines and Chaos with the big-battle bombast of Command and Conquer. Now we have an official release date, along with the news that existing owners can snag the upgrade at a pretty sizable discount.

Given the tabletop nature of Games Workshop's universe, it should come as no surprise that Warhammer 40k: Dawn of War is not only one of the best Warhammer 40k games on PC, but sits among the best RTS games as well. Ordering your Space Marines, Orks, Eldar, or forces of Chaos from a top-down perspective just feels correct, and its 95% Steam review average is a testament to that.

The overhaul includes all of the expansion content, totaling to four full campaigns, nine armies, and more than 200 maps. Along with the options listed above, you can take charge of the Imperial Gard, Tau, Necrons, Dark Eldar, and Sisters of Battle.

With upgraded unit textures, boasting upscaling to "at least four times their original resolution," alongside improved lighting, reflections, shadows, and gloss, this is a far prettier version; it's the game you remember in your head, rather than how the original actually looks. The updated gameplay camera means you'll have a better perspective on the action, while the move to a 64-bit platform and an integrated mod manager that's compatible with past creations gives it long-term community longevity.

Warhammer 40k: Dawn of War Definitive Edition releases Thursday August 14 via Steam and GOG, priced at $29.99. If you own the game's Anniversary Edition, you'll be eligible for a 30% discount. Relic tells us this upgrade offer "will be available on both Steam and GOG and will remain active for the foreseeable future." Head here if you want to wishlist it right now.

If you want to really make sure the remaster pops off the screen, take a look through our guide to the best gaming monitor for your budget. Alternatively, we've rounded up the best strategy games to play in 2025.

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