Skaven

Lore & Background

Skaven technology is crude yet terrifyingly effective, powered by unstable Warpstone which grants them magical enhancements but risks mutation and madness. They possess vast tunnel networks that allow them to strike from unexpected angles and retreat instantly when the tide turns. Despite their cunning and numbers, they are cowardly at heart; without strong leadership or sufficient Warpstone, their morale crumbles into a panicked rout.

In Their Own Story

The air in the warren smelled of damp fur and ozone. A Warlock Engineer adjusted his goggles as Warpfire crackled in the mortar above him. 'Rats,' he chittered to the Clanrats below, 'the surface is weak.' They scurried into the tunnels, a shadow against the stone walls. Above them, the humans slept soundly, unaware that the earth beneath their feet was hungry.

Reader's Guide

Originating from Chaos corruption deep beneath the earth, these rat-men serve the Horned Rat with fanatical devotion. Their society is a brutal hierarchy of Clans, each vying for power through treachery and war. In battle, they overwhelm foes with sheer numbers and Warpstone-fueled technology. Core units include Clanrats for basic infantry, Stormvermin as elite shock troops, and Skaven Warriors for mid-tier defense. Unique support comes from Warlock Engineers who control destructive machines like the Doomwheel and Chariots. Heroes vary by faction; Plague Priests spread disease while Shadowmasters excel at assassination and stealth. The Skaven possess unique campaign mechanics centered on tunneling networks, allowing rapid movement across the map unseen. They also utilize Warpstone reserves to unlock powerful spells or upgrade buildings faster than rivals. Their weakness lies in low morale when leaders fall and their inherent distrust of one another. Players must balance aggression with internal politics to prevent betrayal from within their own ranks. Mastery requires leveraging speed and corruption to choke out surface dwellers before they unite against the swarm.

Did You Know?

• Skaven technology is powered by Warpstone, a magical substance that causes mutations.
• Different Clans specialize in different warfare styles, such as poison or stealth.
• They can travel through underground tunnels to bypass enemy armies on the map.
• The Doomwheel is a signature vehicle used by Skaven Warlock Engineers.