Warhammer 40k Darktide was the long-awaited counterpart to Fantasy's Vermintide. Some even argued the Left 4 Dead style horde shooter gameplay was always more of a fit in the grimdark world of 40k. However, Darktide did have some trouble at launch, namely the lack of promised content and bugs that made the game unpleasant. Since its release, Darktide has redeemed itself among fans with tons of updates and overhauls of existing systems.
But it seems the hate train is full steam ahead again for this DLC reveal.
Hive Scum is the latest class in Warhammer 40k Darktide, and it's a perfect fit into the game's setting. No hive is complete without its scum and villainy. The Hive Scum is a hypermobile and aggressive class that utilizes chem-based buffs to enhance themselves and destroy their foes. I love Necromunda, so my bias for the class is rather strong. The Hive Scum is the wildcard ganger I've always felt was lacking for Darktide, a game that was about the rejects of Warhammer 40k factions.
As with every class, there are three archetypes Hive Scum can fall into. The Gunslinger shreds foes up close with a flurry of firepower and grenades, all the while dodging the worst blows. The Ruffian clobbers hordes up close, ducking and weaving through enemies with melee frenzies. Oh, and a missile launcher, because why not. Finally, the Chemist focuses all their efforts on the Chem and Stimm mechanics, granting them special bonuses. Note that these are not the "official" names, but codenames during development.
Despite the fit, many gamers have complained about the reveal, stating it was a "disappointment." Fueling much of the resentment, particularly in forums, was the assumption that the next class would be a representative from the Adeptus Mechanicus. Personally, it's fine to have preferences, but I've always found it strange when hate comes from something not being something else.
I can understand disappointment for not getting one's Skitarii husbando, but that doesn't really warrant hate towards Hive Scum. A lot of folks end up convincing themselves of a hypothetical, and as a result, feel lied to. After all, nothing in the leadup to Hive Scum's reveal directly tied itself to AdMech. This has led to memes about theorizers "huffing copium," which given the Hive Scum's predilection for chems, is extra hilarious.
The Hive Scum class debuts for Warhammer 40k Darktide on December 2, 2025.
Find your next merry band of rejects for Warhammer 40k Darktide on the Wargamer Discord. If you're really wanting to praise the Omnissiah, then the Warhammer 40k Adeptus Mechanicus guide will act as your holy texts.