The Space Marines are one of the major forces available in the table-top wargame Warhammer 40,000. They are also known as the Adeptus Astartes and by the sobriquet "Angels of Death". The Space Marines have been a part of the Warhammer 40,000 universe since the very first table-top game set in the universe, Rogue Trader. They are loyal to the Imperium of Man. Compared to the Imperial Guard, the largest force of the Imperium, the Space Marines are much better trained and equipped, but exist in far less numbers than the Imperial Guard.
They are supersoldiers, specially chosen for natural ability, and have their innate superiority enhanced further by a combination of extensive training, mental conditioning and genetic alteration. Their dedication and steadfastness is a product of this superiority and indoctrination. Their structure and cultures are monastic in nature although often display features of other strict martial orders and warriors cultures throughout history.
The Space Marines wield the best equipment that the Imperium have to offer. They wear power armour to give them all-over protection and the ability to survive in hostile environments, and are equipped with superior weaponry as well, their most common weapon being the bolter. Space Marines are also much taller than a standard human being, somewhere between seven and nine feet high when clad in their power armour.
The Space Marines are heavily inspired by earlier works of science fiction, including the Mobile Infantry from the novel Starship Troopers, the Sardaukar from the novel Dune and especially the Laserburn tabletop wargame setting.
