As I wrap up the engaging prologue of Warhammer 40K Space Marine 2, I am left impressed over how much the second voyage of a rather beloved game from the PS3 era has improved upon everything. The Saber Interactive-developed third-person action game raises the bar extremely high across all boards.
It overpowers through the compelling prologue into an experience that has stuck well in my mind for days to come. Incredibly visceral, with memorable set-pieces and fun end-game content, Warhammer 40K Space Marine 2 raises the bar for the video game adaptations of the popular Table Top RPG to new heights.
After spending well over a week with the game through its early-access period, here are my thoughts about Space Marine 2 and why I feel this is the best action game to come out in a long time.
Welcome back to the Grimdark Future
Warhammer 40k Space Marine 2 happens 200 years after the first game, where you again play as Titus, an Ultramarine under investigation for suspicion of conspiring with the forces of Chaos.
Initially working with the fearsome Deathwatch unit, Titus joins the Ultramarine chapter as a Lieutenant after Tyranaid forces attack the planet Kadaku and Avarax. From here, the story explores Titus working with his battle brothers to stop the forces of Tyranid and Chaos.
Much like the first game, Space Marine 2’s story is exceptionally tight and linear. This is an improvement over its predecessor, where there was always a lingering urgency, making things extremely engaging. At the same time, the story also focuses more on the workings of the Imperium, which is commendable.
Where the game does knock it out of the park, and then some, is the environment. Every structure on the planet has that majestic feel, which is extremely important given it is the Grimdark future. From big guns to large factories and huge church-like buildings, the environment follows a mix of sci-fi and gothic architecture.
Warhammer 40K Space Marine 2 is quite possibly one of the few game adaptations that faithfully captures the feel and authenticity of the universe shaped by Games Workshop over the last couple of years. The sequel ensures you are left in awe of the sheer scale and grandiosity of the Imperium. And it isn’t the only thing good about the game!
Take the battle to the Tyranid forces on foot
Space Marine 2’s experience is divided into three sections: the single-player story, which follows the adventures of Titus and his battle brothers; Operations, which is the PvE experience; and Eternal War, which is the PvP experience. Fortunately, these three game modes have a familiar yet distinctive feel.
The single-player gives you a great idea of the storyline and how you combat the forces of Tyranid. Each mission takes you to Kadaku and Avarax with various missions, armed with a handgun, a primary weapon, and a melee weapon.
Using the guns feels highly satisfying, giving me the notion of using a heavy weapon that shoots explosive bullets that crush the enemies with each hit.
But the joy of Space Marine 2 lies in using your melee weapons because Tyranid swarms will overwhelm you from time to time, and you can only shoot so many of them. It follows a simple combo system from the first game and feels visceral and satisfying.
One of the newest additions is the parry mechanic, which you can do at critical game moments. The game gives you a visual indication for parry, which, when successfully executed, will allow you to shoot the Tyranid or perform a glory kill.
You also get access to an ability called Righteous Fury, which is a great buff that is usable at any point in the game. It allows Titus to replenish his health while boosting his attacks. So you know shredding through the swarms will benefit you when using it with this ability.
These gameplay mechanics create a beautiful symphony of destruction and annihilation of Tyranid. And you become the conductor, leading the destruction of the forces of Tyranids and Chaos. If you enjoy action games, you’ll highly appreciate the stylistic combat and gameplay of Space Marine 2.
Team up with your battle brothers to continue the fight
Main story aside, you also participate in the Operations mode, which runs parallel to the main storyline in Warhammer 40K Space Marine 2. You get to unlock the different classes through this mode.
Each class plays similarly to Titus but comes with multiple skills that help through the missions. For example, Vanguard can zip through the crowd and do a flying kick on Tyranid, while Heavy can produce an energy shield that stops projectiles. The classes are simple, but the fun gameplay makes using them satisfying.
Similarly, you can choose a class and take yourself to CTF, Team Deathmatch, or Zone Capture in Eternal War, the game’s PvP portion. Granted, it needs some balancing to feel good, and the maps aren’t appealing. But I haven’t felt this refreshed going head-to-head against other players in a multiplayer match. It is a no-nonsense, old-school 6v6 multiplayer experience that I’ve long missed.
Completing matches in Eternal War or Operations gives you experience points, which lets you unlock weapons, armor customization, and abilities that offer passive improvement to your class. Ultimately, the PvP is a great reminder of the bygone years of multiplayer, where your performance and time with the game determined your online experience, and you didn’t have to worry about microtransactions or a battle pass.
Overall, Warhammer 40K Space Marine 2’s multiplayer experience is an old-school, no-nonsense affair that always compelled me to return and enjoy some matches. It feels like an old multiplayer experience, which I miss amidst all the current ones.
In conclusion
Warhammer 40K Space Marine 2 is an excellent love letter to the universe created by Games Workshop. You can feel the attention and care that went into making the experience from the game’s prologue. Oozing with style and personality, it felt refreshing to return to continue the story of Titus after eight-odd years.
Rarely does any modern game emulate the old-school style of gaming: a tight, fun experience where you enjoy the game and put it down once you’re done. Warhammer 40K Space Marine 2 does that and also provides a great tribute to the Emperor of Man, something I’m sure many will appreciate.
Code provided by: Focus Entertainment
Reviewed on: PC (Steam)
