The Rotblood Tribe (also referred to as Northmen or Norscans in Vermintide 2) are a faction of barbaric, Chaos-worshiping humans from the land of Norsca. They are allied with the Skaven and together they are the antagonists encountered by the Heroes throughout the course of Vermintide 2. They are devout fanatics of Nurgle, the god of disease and decay.
Appearance[ | ]
Because the Rotbloods worship Nurgle, they are often "gifted" physical deformities or diseases, while the pain or suffering from such an affliction is removed. In this, Spawns of Chaos and sorcerers like the Blightstormer and Lifeleech are bloated and ravaged by plague; their fodder of warriors are mostly emaciated and decrepit. As decay is part of their belief, Rotbloods wear dirty rags and rusted armour.
Culture [ | ]
Language[ | ]
As Rotbloods come from Norsca, their tongue would be ancient and influenced by the tongues of Dwarfs, humans and Elves. For gameplay purposes, the Rotbloods in Vermintide 2 speak the common tongue and are understandable by the Heroes. It is clear, however, that Fanatics barely have the intelligence to speak, while most Marauders can only form simple sentences.
Technology[ | ]
As a barbaric tribe, Rotbloods seldom rely on advanced technology, instead supporting heavily of the magic powers of their Chaos sorcerers. The technology seen in Vermintide 2 comes mostly from the Skaven.
Society[ | ]
The Rotbloods are a tribe of Norscans and as such have a primitive societal structure. Normally, the tribe is led by a king, but Olesya speaks of "superiors" after finishing The War Camp. The Rotblood forces in Helmgart are headed by a Champion which is elected by these superiors. Champions are likely chosen for their prowess in battle and dedication to Chaos.
Notes[ | ]
It is theorized Nurgle is worshiped the least of all Chaos Gods in Norsca, because praising Nurgle would mean inviting plague and disease to an already harsh environment. Norscan tribes often only turn to Nurgle if they were already plagued and a dire state. Rasknitt might have approached them specifically, not only because the worship of Nurgle lies closely to the domain of Clan Fester and its superior Clan Pestilens, but more importantly because the Rotbloods might have been weakened and more eager to accept an alliance with the Skaven.
Units[ | ]
The following Rotblood units appear in-game:
- Fanatics
- Raiders
- Chaos Warriors
- Maulers
- Savages
- Blightstormers
- Lifeleeches
- Bile Trolls
- Spawns of Chaos