Abilities are the primary character actions used in the game, and are sometimes referred to as Core Abilities. Activated from your ability hot bar or number keys, abilities can be used to attack opponents, defend or heal allies, or increase character performance both in and out of combat.

Abilities generally require action points to activate; however, some careers do have abilities that do not require action points. Instead, some abilities have special requirements to activate these abilities. Each ability is unique and frequently has different uses for a variety of situations. Learning your career's abilities and when to best use them is key to mastering combat in Warhammer Online.