Warhammer 40,000: Darktide could potentially be hinting at the inclusion of Genestealer Cults

Warhammer 40,000: Darktide has significantly improved since my last review. I thoroughly enjoyed the game's gritty and grimy visual style, as well as its intense and engaging combat. However, I must admit that the presence of intrusive live-service elements was disappointing. While some cosmetic microtransactions still persist, the game has made considerable progress with a class rework and the release on consoles. It would be unfortunate if someone were to come and spoil the enjoyment it now offers.

Darktide players have dedicated their time to battling the forces of Nurgle, engaging in fierce combat against Poxwalkers resembling zombies, confronting formidable Plague Ogryns, and facing off against monstrous daemonic Beasts. The game immerses players in a world of decay, filled with pustules and pestilence.

The limited variety doesn't bother me personally, although it would be fascinating to see other Chaos Gods introduced, particularly Tzeentch or Slaanesh, who often receive less attention compared to their bloodthirsty counterparts. I understand why developer Fatshark aimed to emulate classic co-op games like Left 4 Dead with a futuristic zombie horde, but it does feel like the safer and more straightforward choice.

However, things may soon take a different turn. The latest teaser, shared on Fatshark's YouTube channel and featured above, presents another Vox-cast transmission from Imperial agent Wyrmwood, who has been operating covertly on Tertium Prime. Ever since the beta phase, she has been providing reports on the growth of Chaos within the Hive City. We all hope for her safety, but her recent communication implies that she is being pursued by a lurking creature concealed in the shadows.

Nine months ago, Wyrmwood first encountered the initial signs of what eventually manifested as the Chaos Spawn. Now, players are convinced that she is hinting at another upcoming addition, and the possibility of Genestealer Cults immediately springs to mind. These cults, led by figures known as Magi, infiltrate Hive Cities like Tertium Prime and begin recruiting individuals to join their collective cause. Before long, the planet's sewers become infested with Genestealers, and a Hive Fleet looms on the horizon, ready to consume the population. Will Tertium Prime succumb to the fate that has befallen so many other cities in the face of an insidious invasion from within?

In Wyrmwood's latest Vox message, she reveals that she is being stalked by a mysterious creature, constantly lurking in the shadows and following her as she seeks out new hiding places. This behavior is consistent with that of a Lictor, indicating that the invasion by the Genestealer Cult is already in full swing.

The inclusion of Genestealer Cults would be a fantastic addition to the game. Not only would it introduce new enemies and bring diversity to the gameplay, but it would also enhance the somewhat lackluster story. It's all about adding that extra excitement and freshness to the experience.

Having Lictors as boss fights would be incredibly thrilling. These Tyranid creatures, akin to Predators, skulk in the shadows, ready to ambush unsuspecting foes with their formidable claws and savage teeth. There are numerous exciting ways to incorporate Lictors into Darktide. One intriguing concept is to have them appear as recurring minibosses, leaping at players during various stages of a mission, inflicting substantial damage before retreating back into the shadows. Eventually, players would corner the Lictor for a more traditional boss fight, requiring careful aim towards the rafters and vigilant observation of every corner.

A Lictor poses a significant challenge even for Space Marines, let alone a group of Veterans and Ogryns. While a Sanctus may be a less exciting but more lore-appropriate adversary, aligning with the established lore of Warhammer 40k, Darktide has always taken a more flexible approach to the lore - after all, even the Emperor's finest would face difficulties against a Daemonhost.

Speaking of Daemonhosts, there is another theory surrounding Wyrmwood's troubles. It is speculated that she is voiced by the same actor who portrays the Daemonhost. While it is not uncommon for voice actors to take on multiple roles in a game, Darktide has a relatively small cast. Natalie Beran has been confirmed to voice both the Daemonhost and a Groaner, and there are certain similarities in Wyrmwood's performance. Considering the notoriously slow nature of Vox communication, Wyrmwood repeatedly mentions not receiving any response from the player's ship, the Mourningstar. Could it be that all her communications are delayed by years? Was her fate already sealed long before the Inquisition arrived on Tertium Prime?

The information regarding the Chaos Spawn contradicts the theory of time displacement, but it's important to keep in mind that Wyrmwood also serves as a PR representative for Fatshark, teasing new updates while advancing the narrative. Whether she is being pursued by a Lictor or a Daemon, Darktide players can expect an exciting experience ahead.