Darktide’s Third Class DLC Introduces the Alpha Primus Skitarius
Fatshark has officially expanded the roster of Warhammer 40,000: Darktide with its third class DLC: the Alpha Primus Skitarius. This new addition allows players to step into the role of a combatant rebuilt by the Adeptus Mechanicus, offering a significant shift in playstyle through new customization options and a specialized talent tree.
A New Approach to Talent Trees
The Skitarius introduces a departure from previous class designs. It features a unique talent tree layout that begins at the center, providing players with more freedom to expand their builds in any direction. This tree is designed for extreme versatility and includes a complex system governed by a Motive Engine. Players manage three base charges, which are generated through a 2% capacitance gain per second, with additional gains triggered by kills—especially elite and specialist takedowns.
Combat Abilities and Blitz Options
The core ability, Voltaic Expander, allows players to unleash an electric discharge that electrocutes and stuns enemies within a 6m to 12m radius, depending on the number of charges consumed. For those looking for more utility, the Voltaic Emitter upgrade can cause enemy ranged weapons to malfunction for 12 seconds when using two or more charges.
Players can also choose to deploy a Servo-Skull, which acts as an automated companion capable of firing a laspistol or solving data interrogation puzzles. It can be further customized into a Medicae variant to revive allies or a Purgator variant equipped with a flamer. Alternatively, those who prefer traditional tactical gear can swap the Servo-Skull for Arc Grenades or the Integrated Refractor Emitter, which creates a shield against incoming ranged fire.
Specialized Mechanicus Arsenal
The Skitarius class brings a distinct set of weaponry, each utilizing unique mechanics:
- Arc Maul: A melee weapon that builds voltaic charges to release lightning, applying an 'Electrocuted' debuff that increases damage taken by enemies.
- Mechanicus Power Sword: A precise weapon that stores up to six special charges, allowing for 'Energised' strikes with improved armor-piercing capabilities.
- Paired Transonic Blades: A dual-wield weapon that allows players to toggle between 'Slayer' and 'Dueller' modes, each tuned for specific armor types and move sets.
- Arc Rifle: A fully-automatic rifle that triggers arc jumps between electrocuted targets.
- Galvanic Rifle: A semi-automatic weapon built for high-damage precision shots on weak spots.
- Mechanicus Phosphor Blast Pistol: A sidearm that marks high-priority targets with phosphor, increasing the damage they take and reducing their hit-mass.
New Cosmetics and Rotations
Alongside the class release, the Commodore’s Vestures have been updated with a fresh rotation of premium cosmetics. This includes the Mordian Iron Guard regimental bundle, highlighting the unit's disciplined aesthetic, as well as an Ecclesiarchy Faithful bundle for players looking to lean into the cultist themes of the battle for Tertium.
The Skitarius class is available now for PC players. For those looking to theory-craft their new builds, the community-run Gameslantern builder has been updated to support the Skitarius talent tree.