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. In its predecessor, you play as Titus, 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 branches out, offering a certain amount of replayability. Additionally, the difficulty settings remain something to look out for. In the first game, anything below the hard difficulty is considered too easy by most players.

Aside from enjoying the adventures of a lone Space Marine, you can also receive exclusive collectibles should you purchase The Collector’s Edition for Warhammer 40:000 Space Marine 2. Limited edition items included in the package are the following:

• An 8.25 by 6.7” resin statuette of Lieutenant Titus, with a swappable head and helmet, all featuring fine detail and hand-painted work.
• The game’s official Steelbook case.
• A 64-page book containing behind-the-scenes of the game, featuring people from Saber Interactive.
• A copy of the Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2.
• The Macragge’s Chosen downloadable content (DLC) 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 having no microtransactions or paid DLC affecting 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.