A brand new, deep storyline has been created to combine elements of 4X gameplay with a combat-focused system. The evolution of technology, construction of infrastructures and exploration of an unknown world, goes hand in hand with the management of military resources, including heroes with special abilities and mighty war machines.

Warhammer 40,000: Gladius has been designed to give four totally different gameplay experiences, depending on which factions players choose. Space Marines, Astra Militarum (aka Imperial Guard), Orks and Necrons each have dramatically different characteristics, both in how they develop and expand and in the way they interact with allies and enemies. This gives the game virtually endless replay value and players the chance to play out the same experience in totally divergent ways.

In Warhammer 40,000: Gladius there is also a massive difference between playing solo or in multiplayer. The deep storyline was created from scratch to allow players to explore an entire world and lead the expansion of an empire from the ground up. The discovery of ancient artefacts and the custom-crafted quests will reveal the secrets of the planet and its mysterious history as the story progresses.

Warhammer 40,000: Gladius will be free to play on Steam throughout Warhammer Skulls, giving new players the chance to check it out. The game will also boast its biggest discount ever with 90% off.

Slitherine is also releasing a new DLC, called Escalation Pack, where each of the playable factions in Gladius will receive one new unit. This unit's pack includes fan favourites such as Megatrakk Scrapjets for Orks, Skitarii Rangers for the Adeptus Mechanicus, Hive Guards for Tyranids, and more.

“Partnering with Games Workshop helps us take full advantage of the huge visibility that the Skulls Festival has within the Warhammer community. This has become an annual landmark for the development teams involved with Warhammer and for the invaluable marketing opportunity it brings,” said Marco Minoli, CMO, Slitherine.

The real-time multiplayer system lets players build their own path to victory while fighting against live opponents, time and the natural perils that Gladius hides.

Key Features:

• eXplore: Play as one of four iconic Warhammer factions (Astra Militarum, Space Marines, Orks or Necrons), each with their own unique playstyle and technology tree. Explore a randomly generated world filled with special features and threatening wildlife that can crush your troop's morale. Secure control of powerful ancient artefacts to grant you an edge against rival factions.
• eXpand: Construct cities, buildings and fortifications to expand your empire and produce an army to vanquish your foes. Harvest resources and research new technologies to fuel and upgrade your machinery of war.
• eXploit: Progress through a different storyline with each faction as their destiny on Gladius Prime, a world tainted by the warp, unfolds. In the end, when all the dust has settled, only one faction can emerge victorious.
• eXterminate: Command a wide array of devastating weaponry, issue city edicts and deploy tactical operations. Recruit hero units that possess distinct special abilities and can be equipped with items, ranging from advanced grenades to mighty relics of the past. As they become more and more powerful with each rank, they turn into true champions of your cause.

Warhammer 40,000: Gladius - Relics of War is currently available on PC.