Warhammer 40,000: Gladius - Relics of War
Strategy
Single-player
Multi-player
PvP
Online PvP
LAN PvP
Shared/Split Screen PvP
Co-op
Online Co-op
LAN Co-op
Shared/Split Screen Co-op
Shared/Split Screen
Cross-Platform Multiplayer
Steam Achievements
Steam Trading Cards
Steam Workshop
Partial Controller Support
Steam Cloud
Remote Play Together
Family Sharing

Warhammer 40,000: Gladius – Relics of War brings you to a world of terror and violence. Four factions will engage in a brutal war for dominance over the planet’s resources. In the first turn-based 4X strategy game set in Warhammer 40,000 you will lead one of four unique factions.

Developers: Proxy Studios
Publishers: Slitherine Ltd.
Release Date: Jul 12, 2018
Price (USD): $39.99
Current Players: 3.4k

Links:  Steam Store  SteamDB

Very Positive(80%)
atmosphere
faction design
combat strategy
immersive experience
AI challenge
combat focus
lack of diplomacy
DLC model
balance issues
repetitive gameplay
Overall, the sentiment around Warhammer 40,000: Gladius is a patchwork of praise and criticism. Players appreciate the game's adherence to the Warhammer 40K atmosphere and enjoy the unique, faction-based strategies offered. However, the extensive and expensive DLC system draws significant ire, as does the game's combat-heavy focus, which some players find offers limited depth. The AI's behavior, while challenging, often borders on unfairness due to cheating, and the absence of non-combat strategies leaves some players wanting more.

Positive Points

  • The game successfully captures the grimdark atmosphere of the Warhammer 40K universe, providing an immersive experience for fans.
  • Each faction is well-designed with distinct strategic gameplay, offering unique mechanics and playstyles that add depth and replayability.
  • The game provides a focused and streamlined combat-oriented 4X strategy experience, which is true to the Warhammer 40K mantra of 'there is only war.'
  • Gladius offers a challenging AI that requires players to plan and strategize effectively, keeping the gameplay engaging.
  • Negative Points

  • The game's DLC model is seen as predatory, with essential content and factions locked behind numerous expensive DLCs.
  • Some players find the gameplay becomes repetitive and tedious, particularly with the lack of non-combat activities such as diplomacy or trade.
  • The game's balance can be problematic, with certain units or factions perceived as overpowered or underpowered, affecting the overall fairness of gameplay.
  • Mixed Points

  • The AI provides a challenging experience, but can sometimes cheat with visibility and resources, leading to frustration.
  • While the game is set in a rich universe, some players feel the absence of a campaign or narrative reduces engagement over extended play sessions.
  • Gladius is likened to Civilization but with more combat focus; this appeals to some who prefer military strategies but disappoints those who enjoy diplomatic elements.
  • Common Themes

  • The game is heavily combat-focused, aligning with Warhammer's lore, which is both a strength and a limitation depending on player preferences.
  • DLC pricing and structure are major points of contention, with many feeling that the base game lacks content without additional purchases.
  • Players appreciate the game's adherence to Warhammer 40K themes, yet many highlight issues with game balance and AI behavior.
  • Updated 5/22/2026, 12:01:29 AM UTC