More than six years after it first arrived, raucous co-op game Warhammer Vermintide 2 has launched one of its biggest updates. One of the best Warhammer games on PC, this chaotic Skaven-smashing spin on Left 4 Dead is still an absolute blast today, and now developer Fatshark introduces a new game mode and a total progression overhaul. After many months in testing, Vermintide 2 Versus mode is finally available to all, and a huge Steam sale discount means you can get in for less than $2.
Warhammer Vermintide 2 has been a co-op classic for years, but ever since launch developer Fatshark has been teasing the potential for players to turn on one another, bringing a new dimension to one of the best Warhammer games. Versus mode pits four heroes against the Pactsworn hordes, with four opposing players taking control of the five types of Special Skaven enemies. These particularly potent rats still aren’t as hardy as the heroes, but Pactsworn players can respawn in a new Special after dying with no limits on coming back over and over.
The Special Pactsworn start with the pouncing Gutter Runners, who can leap on a hero to disable them. The Packmaster can hook and hang up heroes; the Warpfire Thrower deals massive short-range damage; the Ratling Gunner obliterates enemies from afar with its long-range weapon; and the Poison Wind Globadier tosses poison gas bombs that deal high damage and limit visibility. Pactsworn players can also call on the horde periodically to help overwhelm the noble heroes.
To get involved in Versus mode, you can either select the new option from the game’s main menu, or head down to the basement from the regular Adventure Keep hub. There, you can either hop into Quickplay matchmaking solo or with a party, open your own Versus Dedicated Server match, or create a custom game lobby that will be hosted by the player that creates it. At launch, there are five maps to play on, and a whole-new Versus progression system along with Pactsworn cosmetics and hero poses for the good guys.
Alongside Versus mode comes the previously teased Warhammer Vermintide 2 progression rework for the main game, which should reduce the grind needed to unlock the fun stuff. It’s also designed to make it easier for new players to jump in with their more-experienced friends. There are also balance changes to look forward to, and on top of all this comes a colossal Steam sale discount. If you’ve always wanted to give Vermintide 2 a try but haven’t taken the plunge, there’s never been a better time than now.
The Warhammer 2 Vermintide Versus mode is out now as a free update. You can buy the game at a 95% discount until Tuesday November 26, meaning you’ll pay just $1.49 / £1.18 for your copy, with additional discounts available on DLC and add-on bundles. Head here to take a look and grab it for yourself.
Whether you like to team up with your friends or take them on to prove your dominance, we’ve rounded up the best co-op games and the best multiplayer games to suit every situation.
You can also follow us on Google News for daily PC games news, reviews, and guides, or grab our PCGN deals tracker to net yourself some bargains.