I recently revisited Warhammer Vermintide 2 with a group of friends, and it served as a delightful reminder that, even after more than seven years since its launch, this Skaven-smashing adventure remains one of the premier Warhammer experiences available on Steam. The excitement is palpable as we mark a decade since the release of its predecessor, the somewhat unwieldy titled Warhammer: End Times – Vermintide. To commemorate this milestone, developer Fatshark is reintroducing the most requested map from the original game, but a recent blog post hints that this will be more than just a straightforward port.
Return to the Reik: A Reimagined Experience
In a recent discussion, key members of the development team, including lead level designer Rickard, lead sound designer Anton, and lead gameplay programmer Theodor, shared insights into what players can anticipate from the upcoming Return to the Reik. This reimagining of the River Reik mission from the first co-op game promises to deliver a fresh experience while retaining familiar elements. Rickard noted that the team thoroughly examined old levels and engaged with fan feedback, ultimately discovering that River Reik was the most desired return due to its epic nature.
While seasoned Vermintide players will recognize many aspects of the level, they can also expect significant enhancements. The terrain has been altered, introducing new encounters, additional side paths, and extended combat sequences. Players will face not only the Skaven but also Chaos encampments and raiding ships, adding layers of complexity to the gameplay. For those daring enough to explore shortcuts through caverns, there may be surprises lurking in the shadows.
In this revamped mission, players will once again navigate a ship along the river, but this time the journey is longer and filled with action. Functional cannons will allow players to fend off circling enemies while simultaneously dealing with boarders attempting to seize control of the vessel. Rickard expressed pride in the successful implementation of the cannons, noting the challenges faced during development. Additionally, the technical improvements made for Return to the Reik will enhance the functionality of elevators throughout the entire game.
For explorers at heart, the new iteration of River Reik promises numerous hidden nooks and crannies to discover. While the action is undeniably engaging, the thrill of secret-hunting—seeking out Tomes and Grimoires while managing the added challenges of carrying them—ensures that each playthrough of Vermintide 2 remains invigorating.
The grand finale of the level has undergone substantial modifications, designed to elevate the climactic experience. Although all three developers found it difficult to choose a favorite aspect of the revamp, Theodor highlighted the excitement of the last stand, where players must fend off waves of enemies while preparing to escape.
Reflecting on the decision to revisit older levels, Rickard shared an anecdote about the initial skepticism surrounding the feasibility of revamping River Reik. He embraced the challenge, dedicating two days to deciphering the original mechanics, particularly the sailing elements. His determination paid off, resulting in a level that he believes is truly worth celebrating.
Looking ahead, Fatshark has confirmed that Return to the Reik is just the beginning. While details remain under wraps, the team is already exploring future maps and adventures for the Ubersreik Five. As the anticipation builds, players can prepare for more thrilling content on the horizon.
The new Warhammer Vermintide 2 map, Return to the Reik, is set to launch on Thursday, November 20, as a free update for all players. For those interested in the challenges faced during the development of the boat sequence and a deeper exploration of the sound design, further details can be found in the full blog post.
