Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War Returns with Definitive Edition After 20 Years

One of the most iconic real-time strategy games of the 2000s is making a comeback. Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War is getting a remaster treatment in the form of the Definitive Edition, set to launch in 2025 for modern PCs via Steam and GOG.

Originally developed by Relic Entertainment and released back in 2004, Dawn of War helped put Warhammer 40K on the map for gamers who hadn’t yet dipped their toes into the grimdark universe.

With its fast-paced RTS gameplay, rich lore, and cinematic presentation, the game quickly became a fan favorite—and now, it’s getting a much-deserved refresh for a whole new generation.

What’s New in the Definitive Edition?

In an interview with IGN, Philippe Boulle, Relic’s design director (and a veteran on the team since 2005), made one thing clear: Dawn of War: Definitive Edition isn’t a remake. It’s a polished re-release. The core gameplay? Untouched. No rebalancing, no big system overhauls—nothing that messes with what made the 2004 original so beloved.

“The gameplay stood up, it still was fun, still was engaging,” said Boulle. “We really didn't want to mess with that.”

That said, the tech side of things has gotten a serious tune-up:

• Widescreen support (finally ditching the 4:3 and stretched 16:9 formats)

• A pulled-back default camera for better battlefield visibility

• Loads of bug fixes—including some old map quirks and even 20-year-old typos

• Full mod support, just like the original

Expect the Definitive Edition to run smoother, look cleaner, and play exactly how you remember it—but better.

Built on Passion and Perseverance

So, how did this remaster even come about? According to Boulle, the idea just came naturally as Relic moved into a more independent phase. First, the team made sure they could still build the game from its original source code. Then they hit up Games Workshop—who were instantly on board.

“It was the Spider-Man meme of both of us like, ‘Hey, you know what would be cool?’” Boulle joked.

After THQ’s collapse, Games Workshop took back its license. Sega later picked up Relic and carried the Dawn of War torch forward. Now, with the Definitive Edition, Relic and GW are teaming up once again.

Modding Community Gets Full Support

The modding scene has kept Dawn of War alive for two decades, and Relic isn’t about to forget that. Mods that worked with the original will be compatible with the Definitive Edition from day one. While older mods won’t tap into the new tech right away, creators will have the tools to bring them up to speed over time.

Classic Campaigns & Factions Included

You’re not just getting the base game—this is the full package. The Definitive Edition comes with all three expansions:

• Winter Assault

• Dark Crusade

• Soulstorm

That means nine playable factions, from the iconic Blood Ravens to the Necrons, Tau, Sisters of Battle, and more.

A Timely Return for a Legendary RTS

Honestly, this remaster couldn’t be landing at a better time. Warhammer 40K is bigger than ever—not just in tabletop circles, but across pop culture in general. From high-profile game releases like Space Marine 2 to buzz around upcoming shows and streaming projects, the 40K universe is everywhere.

And let’s not forget the RTS revival. With classics like Age of Empires finding new life through remasters, Dawn of War Definitive Edition could be just the jolt the genre—and the franchise—needs.

When Can We Play?

Right now, all we know is that Dawn of War: Definitive Edition is aiming for a 2025 release. No exact date yet.

While Boulle didn’t drop any hints about sequels or a potential Dawn of War II remaster, it’s clear that the success of this re-release could open the door to more. Fingers crossed.