This DLC adds the Drukhari faction to the turn-based strategy game *Warhammer 40,000: Gladius - Relics of War*, requiring the base game for access. Players utilize this ancient, decadent race, focusing on swift, predatory raids within the existing 4X framework of exploration, expansion, and tactical combat. The Drukhari introduce unique units and a distinct strategic playstyle centered on speed, contrasting with the established factions. Released in 2023 for PC/Linux, this content substantially increases replayability by adding a complete, new civilization choice.
This content package introduces the Drukhari faction to the strategic landscape of Warhammer 40,000: Gladius - Relics of War. As downloadable content (DLC), it requires the base game to access its features, integrating a new playable race directly into the existing turn-based strategy framework. The Drukhari, an ancient and decadent race surviving within the vast Webway cities, bring their unique, predatory culture to the planet Gladius Prime, offering a distinct playstyle contrast to the established factions.
Core Content and Integration
This DLC focuses on expanding the roster of playable factions within the main game's established turn-based strategy environment. It does not introduce a separate campaign or new standalone modes, but rather adds the Drukhari as a fully realized civilization choice for use in skirmish matches and existing game modes within the core title.
What new gameplay elements does this DLC introduce?
The primary addition is the entire Drukhari faction, complete with their unique units, buildings, research tree, and specific tactical advantages tailored to their lore. Players choosing the Drukhari will experience gameplay centered around
speed, hit-and-run tactics, and exploiting enemy weaknesses, reflecting their nature as raiders from the Webway.
This integration means that all existing mechanics of the base game—city building, resource management, exploration, and tactical combat—are utilized, but viewed through the lens of the Drukhari's specific faction mechanics. Their units and structures will interact with the established map and victory conditions of Gladius Prime.
Faction Atmosphere and Strategy
The Drukhari bring an atmosphere steeped in depravity and ancient, twisted technology. Their presence on Gladius Prime is characterized by swift, brutal raids rather than slow territorial conquest.
For a player deciding on this purchase, understanding the faction's strategic identity is key. They are not a slow-building empire; instead, they rely on rapid deployment and specialized units designed to inflict maximum damage before retreating. This contrasts sharply with factions focused on heavy armor or slow attrition warfare.
How does this DLC compare in scope to the base game experience?
While it does not add new overarching game modes or a dedicated story campaign, the addition of a full, unique faction is substantial for players invested in the core 4X/TBS gameplay loop. It significantly increases replayability by introducing a completely new strategic path and unit roster that must be mastered, offering a quality of content equivalent to adding a new civilization in other strategy titles.
When was this content released?
This content was released on November 30, 2023. It is available exclusively on PC platforms, specifically Microsoft Windows and Linux. As of the current date, this DLC package functions as a singular addition to the base game roster.