The Death Guard, ancient and corrupted warriors of the Chaos God Nurgle, embody the relentless tide of decay and despair. Once proud Space Marines of the Imperium, they now serve the Plague Lord with diseased loyalty.
Their bodies are twisted by disease, but their resolve is unbreakable, waging war with a grim determination that reflects their festering power. Why the World Eaters possess the wrath of Khorne, and the Thousand Sons the insight of Tzeench, the Death Guard march ever onward under the banners of Nurgle.
Join us as we delve into the putrid ranks of the Death Guard, exploring their enduring resilience and the horrors they unleash upon the galaxy.
Who Are The Death Guard?
The Death Guard are one of the most feared forces in the Warhammer 40,000 universe. Originally loyalist Space Marines under the command of Mortarion, they were turned during the Horus Heresy and became pawns of Nurgle, the Chaos God of Plague.
Now, the Death Guard spread disease and corruption throughout the stars, wielding pestilence as a weapon. They are known for their resilience and slow, methodical approach to warfare, relying on their ability to endure endless punishment and outlast their enemies. Mortarion himself leads them from the plague-ridden warp, overseeing his Legion’s conquest of the mortal realm.
What Are Death Guard Army Strengths?
The Death Guard army thrives on durability and attrition warfare, slowly grinding down the enemy with resilience and corruption.
- Durability: Death Guard units possess abilities like “Disgustingly Resilient,” making them incredibly tough to kill. Their natural resistance to damage makes them stand out in prolonged engagements, absorbing firepower that would decimate lesser forces.
- Plague Weaponry: The Death Guard’s weapons are infected with disease, many of them counting as Plague Weapons. These weapons not only cause physical damage but also spread contagion, weakening their foes with rerolls on failed wound rolls.
- Mid-Range Combat: While not the fastest army, the Death Guard excels in mid-range firefights. Their combination of durable infantry and potent weaponry allows them to march steadily into enemy lines, unleashing bolter and plague spitter fire as they advance.
- Area Denial: Death Guard armies have the ability to control large areas of the battlefield. Their Plagueburst Crawlers and other artillery pieces create dangerous zones, denying mobility to enemies with threats of contamination and bombardment.
Where Should Beginners Start?
For players looking to start a Death Guard army, here are essential models that can help you build a resilient force:
- Plague Marines: The core of any Death Guard army, Plague Marines are tough and versatile. They can be outfitted with a variety of plague-ridden weapons and are exceptional at holding objectives and wearing down enemy units.
- Poxwalkers: Cheap and plentiful, Poxwalkers form the Death Guard’s cannon fodder. They advance in droves, absorbing enemy fire while slowly overwhelming with sheer numbers. They’re perfect for learning how to control space and frustrate enemy plans.
- Foetid Bloat-Drone: These fast-moving daemon engines are excellent for harassing enemy flanks. Their speed and ability to engage in close combat make them great for practicing aggressive tactics.
- Plagueburst Crawler: The Plagueburst Crawler excels at long-range fire support with its plague-spreader and heavy weapons, while also providing resilience on the battlefield.
- Lord of Contagion: As a leader unit, the Lord of Contagion brings both durability and powerful abilities to the battlefield. He enhances the resilience of nearby units and excels in close combat, making him an excellent centerpiece for your army.
How To Paint Death Guard Models
Painting Death Guard can be a gruesome yet satisfying experience, allowing for creative expressions of decay and disease. Here’s a step-by-step guide to painting these corrupted warriors:
Color Scheme
Death Guard Green and Rust
- Base Coat: Start with Death Guard Green for the armor. Apply a Rusty Orange or Leadbelcher for metallic areas.
- Layering: Use Nurgling Green to highlight the armor. Add Typhus Corrosion to metallic parts for a grimy, rusted look.
- Details: Use Balthasar Gold for trim and detailing. Add Nurgle’s Rot technical paint to create slimy, infected areas.
Horus Heresy Era Death Guard
- Base Coat: Start with an off-white or grey like Zandri Dust for pre-corruption armor.
- Layering: Apply Reikland Fleshshade to bring out details. Use a mix of green washes for areas of corruption and decay.
- Details: Use Agrax Earthshade to create a weathered, battle-worn look, highlighting the transition from loyalist to traitor.
Death Guard Painting Techniques
- Base Coating: Use Death Guard Green and Agrax Earthshade washes to create an oily, decayed look. Typhus Corrosion and Ryza Rust are ideal for armor and weapons. Apply light touches of Nurgle’s Rot to create an authentic look of infection oozing from joints or weapon barrels.
- Weathering and Washing: The Death Guard’s appearance benefits from looking battle-worn. Apply Nuln Oil and Agrax Earthshade liberally to create the impression of filth. Streaking Grime or Typhus Corrosion can also add texture.
- Drybrushing: Use Ryza Rust to drybrush over metal areas to simulate rust. Light touches of greens or yellows can simulate fungal growths or decaying flesh on organic elements.
- Edge Highlighting: For a striking finish, edge highlight armor plates with Nurgling Green. The contrast between the dull, corroded armor and sharp highlights will bring out the details.
- Technical Paints: These technical paints add visceral elements to your models. Apply them to plague weapons or wounds to simulate dripping slime or blood.
