Death Guard Chaos Marines: Nurgle’s Plague Warriors
Artist: Hendrix Schneider Source: Hendrix Schneider
The Death Guard: Nurgle’s Plague Marines in Warhammer 40K
Origins of the Death Guard
The Death Guard, one of the original Legions of Space Marines in Warhammer 40,000, represent decay and resilience. Led by their Primarch, Mortarion, they were once celebrated for their durability and fearlessness, thriving in the most toxic and hostile environments. Their endurance made them invaluable in prolonged campaigns where others would fail.
The Fall to Chaos
The Death Guard’s tragic fall occurred during the Horus Heresy when Mortarion, in desperation, accepted the “gifts” of the Plague God, Nurgle. This decision transformed the Legion into grotesque harbingers of disease and pestilence. Their bodies became swollen and decayed, yet nearly invulnerable, as they spread Nurgle’s Rot, corrupting everything they touched. Once defenders of the Imperium, they now bring ruin to its worlds as Traitor Marines.
Instruments of Decay
As Nurgle’s chosen, the Death Guard embody decay in every aspect. Their ships and weapons ooze corruption, while their armies march alongside daemonic entities. Their tactics are deliberate and unrelenting, advancing methodically and shrugging off attacks with diseased bodies immune to most harm.
Relentless and Plague-Ridden
The Death Guard’s arsenal includes grotesque bioweapons such as plague knives and blight grenades, designed to spread sickness and despair. Commanded by Mortarion, now a Daemon Primarch, they serve as Nurgle’s favored instruments of decay. Their corrupted endurance and twisted resilience make them a terrifying reminder of what happens when strength is consumed by Chaos.
