How necessary would a map and miniatures be to play the game? Is it easy to do without?

I've run Dark Heresy and Rogue Trader without ever using miniatures. I played in a Deathwatch game that did use them. I didn't feel that they added anything to the game and seemed to be more of a distraction than anything. i have yet to run or play Black Crusade, but when I do minis won't be on the table.

Good to know. Thanks!

Its definately easy to do without but there are quite a few players that like to have a visual representation of their character and of battles so there is never any doubt where your character or the enemies are located. Personally Im fine with either.

Maptool is pretty nice if you have a big screen/ projector.

I use it entensively for my RT campaing. For solar system squetch and just fast room layout, etc.

Must for online games!