Squads, mutations and synergies
Updated September 25, 2026. Figures come from the live game.
The short answer
Zombies fight in squads of up to six that earn xp and level up (+8 % hp and damage a level). At level 3 each squad can take one of two mutations. Mix strains in a march for synergies: runners screen brutes, Spitters and Wallbreakers breach gates.
Levels and xp
| Level | Total xp | Bonus |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 0 | — |
| 2 | 5 | +8 % hp and damage |
| 3 | 15 | +16 %, mutation unlocked |
| 4 | 35 | +24 % |
| 5 | 70 | +32 % |
A squad that survives a fight earns 3 xp for a win and 1 for a loss. Guards who fought on the attacked side and the reserve earn xp too.
The six mutations
| Strain | Mutation | In a fight |
|---|---|---|
| Shambler | Bloater | Bursts on death: 30 damage to everything close by |
| Shambler | Grappler | A grabbed defender moves and fights at half speed for 2 s |
| Runner | Spitter | Hits from 4 cells and goes for towers first |
| Runner | Skirmisher | 30 % faster |
| Brute | Wallbreaker | Double damage to barricades and gates |
| Brute | Carrier | Lifts two allies over a barricade, once |
A mutation is permanent and costs 2 serum and 4 biomass per zombie in the squad (10 % less per Binding Pit level above 1, and 30 % less with the Pit's Mutagen Vats path). Mutating happens in the Binding Pit's mutagen chamber.
Synergies
| Synergy | March with | Bonus |
|---|---|---|
| Runner screen | Runners and brutes | Brutes take 20 % less tower fire while a runner squad stands |
| Breach team | Spitters and Wallbreakers | +15 % damage to gates and walls |
| Mixed horde | All three strains | +5 % hp and damage |
Questions players ask
What is the best mutation in Voxhorde?
It depends on the job. Wallbreaker is the strongest for raiding fortified villages; Spitter takes out towers; Bloater is best in big shambler waves.
Can I change a mutation?
No. Mutations are permanent.