Warhammer 40,000: Darktide's new Skitarii class offers a formidable and unique experience, potentially shifting player allegiance from established favorites like the Zealot. After over 250 hours with the game, the author found the Skitarii's imposing stature and distinct mechanics to be a compelling evolution for the title.
The Skitarii stands out visually due to its significant size. Even the smallest variant is as tall as the tallest human character, with the largest reaching heights comparable to the Ogryn, but without the same bulk. This commanding presence allows players to literally loom over enemies, enhancing the immersive experience.
Customization plays a key role in the Skitarii's appeal. Players can select a Forge World, such as the in-game Moebian 'Branx,' and add various augmentations. The voice options are also highly customizable, allowing for unique character vocalizations and helping to differentiate players in a squad.
Mechanically, the Skitarii class offers diverse playstyles. One notable option is the Servo Skulls, a trio of deployable units that, while not exceptionally high in damage, provide significant utility. These can be used for reviving allies at range, creating choke points with flamethrowers, or even automating the Data Interrogation minigame.
For players who prefer close-quarters combat, the Chordclaw provides a distinct melee option. This weapon functions like an "I want this to die" button, capable of quickly dispatching larger enemies with guaranteed critical hits, bleed and electrify effects, and multiple potential strikes. It is paired with the Integrated Refraction Emitter, a shield that consumes grenade charges to grant immunity to ranged attacks and periodically electrocutes nearby foes.
The Skitarii's skill tree operates on a radial system, offering more freedom than previous classes' linear trees. This design, along with abilities like Advanced Combat Doctrines for automatic target acquisition and shooting, and the Voltaic Emitter for electrifying enemies, highlights the class's focus on electrical-based attacks and buffs. A core mechanic involves managing a 'charge' system, with abilities and buffs influenced by the charge count.
Weaponry also receives special mention. The Arc Maul, Galvanic Rifle, and Paired Transonic Blades are noted for their satisfying feel and function. The Arc Maul utilizes a new electricity type that can chain between enemies. The Galvanic Rifle, described as similar to an M1 Garand, offers a highly satisfying firing and reloading experience, complete with auditory feedback. The Paired Transonic Blades, a weapon typically reserved for Sicarian Ruststalkers, provide a versatile dual-wielding option with distinct attack patterns for groups and single targets.
These new additions, particularly the Skitarii class, suggest a promising direction for future Darktide content. The author considers the Skitarii to be a significant improvement over the Hive Scum and a strong contender against other classes like the Arbites due to its unique design and mechanics.