 The war is described as a major contributing factor to the game's dystopian environment.The books are published in several media by the Black Library, a Games Workshop division, with the first title released in April 2006; the series consists of 56 published volumes, with more in the pipeline.The series has developed into a distinct and successful product line for the Black Library; titles have often appeared in bestseller lists, and overall the work has received critical approval despite reservations.