Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 is a paid action game from Focus Entertainment. As the sequel to the 2011 title of the same name, it brings a lot of new material to the popular third-person shooter. Play as a member of the titular Space Marines and save the galaxy.

With upgraded graphics, an all-new soundtrack, and a fitting continuation of the story, Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 is the refreshing return Warhammer fans have been waiting for. Other action-packed entries in the franchise include Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War and Warhammer 40,000: Eternal Crusade.

Rejoin the Adeptus Astartes

Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 revolves around the massive lore of the Warhammer 40,000 franchise. In it, the titular Space Marines or the Adeptus Astartes refers to an order of human defenders. Subject to all forms of modification, they are more battle machines than humans. You play as Titus in its predecessor, which continues in this sequel. You continue his quest in all new worlds.

Aside from the massively overhauled graphics, it also features a lot of new content that makes it perfectly standalone. Whether you’re an action RPG fan new to the franchise or you’re looking to continue from the 2011 title, you’re welcome. Here, you get to face the monsters of the Warhammer 40,000 universe—from the Orks, the armies of Chaos, and a couple of new enemies yet to reveal themselves. 

Whereas the first game was partly criticized for its rather linear campaign, this sequel has learned and made it better. There are parts of the campaign that branch out, offering a certain amount of replayability. In addition, the difficulty settings remain something to look out for. In the first game, most players consider anything below the hard difficulty too easy. It is also important to note that this game uses strong language in the dialogue.

Gold and Ultra editions

In addition to the standard edition, Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 offers two special editions, the Gold Edition and the Ultra Edition, available for separate purchase. Both the Gold and Ultra Editions include the full game along with additional content such as the Macragge's Chosen DLC, a Season Pass, and four days of early access. The Ultra Edition, which is more expensive than the Gold Edition, also features an exclusive Ultramarines Champion Pack.

Some content to watch out for

In preparation for Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2’s official release, developer team Saber Interactive has been rolling out monthly community updates. These updates will provide new information and highlights about the game, starting with a reveal at the Warhammer Skulls Festival. Currently, it’s known that the game will feature three modes: campaign, PvE Operations, and PvP Eternal War, each offering distinct gameplay experiences.

Notably, the game will also emphasize player experience by not allowing microtransactions or paid DLC to affect gameplay—only cosmetic upgrades will be available for purchase.

Warhammer action to the next level

Most games in the Warhammer franchise are real-time strategy games, but there are still unique entries in other genres, with Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 being a great example. After over 10 years since the first entry, it makes the most out of its long absence. It improves on the perceived issues of the first one and adds a lot of content—wrapped in a modern game engine.