It feels like only yesterday we were battling through the rat-infested sewers of Helmgart or admiring the grim sights of Ubersreik. While many of us now spend our time in the gritty depths of Hive Tertium, it’s hard to believe it’s been a full decade since we first delved into Ubersreik in the original Vermintide. This series has consistently delivered phenomenal gaming experiences, earning its spot among the finest Warhammer titles. Now, developer Fatshark is embracing that nostalgia by bringing a beloved classic level back to Vermintide 2 as part of its grand anniversary celebrations.
For those yet to experience the chaotic joy of Vermintide 2 – a game best described as several rats in a trenchcoat pretending to be a coherent narrative – you join a diverse cast of heroes. Your mission? To confront the relentless Skaven invasion. Whether you choose a sturdy dwarf or a cunning witch hunter, your objective remains the same: banish the evil and safeguard Reikland from total infestation.
After Vermintide 2’s ‘Well of Dreams’ update concluded its most recent storyline (with a rather neat bow, or perhaps a disgusting rat’s tail), the path forward for the game felt uncertain. Successfully defusing a warp bomb beneath the Elven realm of Athel Lithri was certainly gratifying, yet it left many players pondering the game’s next direction. With an open canvas, possibilities were endless. However, few anticipated a journey back in time.
Indeed, this November marks our highly anticipated return to the River Reik, a pivotal location from the original game. This beloved area has been expanded and brilliantly reimagined for the sequel, ‘Return to the Reik,’ introducing dynamic boat-based gameplay. Expect thrilling deck skirmishes, challenging swaying platforms, and unique barge environments. Think of it as the ‘Black Flag’ of the Vermintide series – and this time, it’s absolutely happening! What started as an April Fool’s joke in 2021 is now a legitimate 2025 release.
But before this grand return, mark your calendars! From Thursday, October 23, to Monday, November 3, the popular Geheimnistnacht Event makes its comeback. Offering double XP and engaging event quests that unlock exclusive new portrait frames and stunning weapon illusions, this is a must-participate event, especially if you’ve been away from the game for some time.
Once you’re back in the swing of things, another double XP period will coincide with the launch of ‘Return to the Reik,’ perfectly timed for you to fulfill your most piratical fantasies. Additionally, ‘Gifts of the Wolf-Father’ will make its anticipated return in December.
The ‘Return to the Reik’ update for Warhammer Vermintide 2 is scheduled for release on Thursday, November 20. Prepare to dive in and get your grind on!
If this news has ignited your desire to explore the Old World once more, we have plenty of other fantastic settings for you in our collection of the best fantasy games. For those craving intense melee combat, our top sword games are sure to satisfy. En garde! And if you’re curious about Fatshark’s other anniversary offerings, you can also see what’s being added to Darktide.
Are you ready to join the fight again with this exciting anniversary update? Share your thoughts and strategies for brutalizing those intelligent ratmen in our community Discord server!