Warhammer 40,000: Gladius - Relics of War

Warhammer 40,000: Gladius - Relics of War is a 4X strategy game developed by Proxy Studios and published by Slitherine. Released in July 2018, the game brings the 4X genre to the Warhammer universe with a unique twist: there is no diplomacy. On the planet Gladius Prime, once a peaceful Imperial world, Necrons have awakened and a Warp storm has brought Orks and Chaos. Space Marines were deployed, and soon four factions fight for survival on a hostile world.

The gameplay focuses exclusively on war—fitting for a universe where there is only war. Each faction features unique mechanics: the Astra Militarum floods the field with cheap infantry, Space Marines deploy elite units, Orks grow stronger through plundering, and Necrons slowly awaken to full power. The absence of diplomacy perfectly suits the 40K setting.

The procedural campaign map with hostile flora, fauna, and ruins of past civilizations makes each playthrough unique. Quests lead to powerful artifacts and tell the story of the planet. Technology trees run deep and require strategic decisions about development directions for one's forces.

Gladius has been continuously expanded through DLCs adding new factions like Tyranids, Chaos Space Marines, T'au, and others. Each new faction brings fresh mechanics and changes the game's dynamics. As the only pure 4X game in the Warhammer universe, it has carved out a devoted niche.