Reviewed by: Wayne Tonjes
The Inquisition by Black Library is a new sourcebook for the gothic future setting of Warhammer 40,000. Effectively, this volume is a full color glossary of stories regarding the exploits of a few of the mysterious Inquisitors, as documented in a separate collection available from the publisher as well. As such, while this volume might be considered a fan book, it can easily be used as a reference text for the Warhammer 40,000 war game or as part of the recently released Dark Heresies role-playing game.
In effect, this volume is easily summarized by the product website:
“This amazing background book is the essential guide to inquisitors, including the famous personalities of the Inquisition, their allies, enemies, equipment, methods, political factions and much more. Every entry is rendered in encyclopaedic style, with superb illustrations throughout.”
The book pretty much follows this outline, reviewing numerous inquisitors and their allies. Some of the entries are little more than a name or key characteristic or obituary, though, a few of the key inquisitors are given a called out entry of a page or more. A selection of locales, weapons, and items are also listed bringing the total count up to 640 separate entries. The listings are further supported with full color art on most every page and some short lists.
While there is plenty offered in this glossary, it could use a few further elements. Most of the entries clearly indicate cross-references in bold face that can then be found in the main alphabetic listings. A couple of the entries, though, are placed outside the alphabetical order in sidebar groups or call out sections. For these hidden entries a base reference in the main alphabetical listing with a possible page number would help for readers not planning to read straight through the volume but using primarily as a reference dictionary for specific listings. The last feature that might help is to add a few maps and a timeline. There are plenty of worlds mentioned scattered throughout different sectors of the galactic empire. A map of one or two of them to offer a bit more than a place name might help. Similarly, a timeline might help as some of the events and characters mentioned existed in two separate millennia. Granted, that last item could be an entire volume on its own, so it might be a bit much.
The Inquisition does live up to its aims as an illustrated guide to the inquisition, highlighting a selection of its members as well as its primary institutions. This volume offers a multitude of names for character references and naming styles for players of the related games or just fans. The editing is sharp with only some thirty-one real typos, a superb layout, and brilliant artwork. Overall, it presents a clear picture of the deadly Imperium as told by a few select characters. There are some spoilers, though, so anyone planning to read the novels it is derived from might want to set this one aside. Unfortunately, the publishers have sold out their entire stock, though, so do not way too long. This volume is worth a look.
For more details on Black Library and their new sourcebook, The Inquisition, check them out at their website http://www.blacklibrary.com/default.asp and at local game stores.
(Product Summary)
The Inquisition
From: Black Library
Type of Game: Sourcebook
Compiled by: Nick Kyme, Lindsey D le Doux Priestley, and George Stirling
Contributing Authors: Dan Abnett and Andy Hoare
Edited by: Nick Kyme
Graphic Design by: Darius Hinks
Producer: Marc Gascoigne
Cover Art by: Karl Kopinski, Stef Kopinski, and Adrian Smith
Additional Art by: Dave Allsop, Christian Byrne, Wayne England, Dave Kendall, Clint Langley, Ian Peterson, Duane Redhead, Karl Richardson, and Andrea Uderzo
Number of Pages: 96
Game Components Included: Soft Cover Book
Retail Price: $29.99 (US)
Retail Price: $34.99 (Can)
Retail Price: £15.00 (UK)
Item Number: 6004 0181 016
ISBN: 978-1-84416-491-2
Email: publishing@games-workshop.co.uk
Website: www.blacklibrary.com/default.asp
Reviewed by: Wayne Tonjes