Computer Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 Review

Product Details:

North American Release: September 9, 2024
Publisher: Focus Entertainment
Developer: Saber Interactive
Genre: Third-Person Shooter
Platforms: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S

Game Highlights:

After a long wait, fans of the 2011 Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine can finally celebrate its direct sequel. While Relic Entertainment didn't return to develop it, Saber Interactive has stepped up, breathing new life into the series with impressive results.

Players once again step into the boots of the unwavering Ultramarine, Lieutenant Demetrian Titus. The story jumps 200 years ahead, which might puzzle those unfamiliar with 40k lore (myself included). Though not mandatory, I strongly suggest watching some YouTube videos about 40k lore and Space Marine history. The Warhammer 40k universe is fascinatingly complex and worth exploring.

Your adventure begins as you cut through swarms of Tyranids, wielding both firearms and melee weapons, including the iconic chainsword (which, notably, came before Gears of War's similar weapon). Much of the game involves battling massive enemy hordes, often numbering in the hundreds. Saber Interactive showcases their Swarm Engine once again, demonstrating its impressive capabilities.


Missions follow a mostly straight path, with occasional side routes leading to ammo, weapons, or collectibles. Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 focuses more on relentless combat than complex navigation.

The combat system is smooth and easy to grasp. You'll mainly use melee weapons to slice through enemy hordes, occasionally switching to guns for certain foes. For tougher groups, you have various grenades at your disposal. While you can adjust your loadout before missions, each level provides suitable weapons for every situation. Parrying plays a crucial role and feels incredibly satisfying. It deals massive damage, and finishing off weakened enemies restores your armor.

The game offers unique abilities for each character. In the campaign, you and up to two friends control three main characters with distinct skills. PvP and side missions let you choose your abilities, including a jump pack for quick dashes or aerial attacks.

While the campaign is brief, it's packed with enjoyment. The levels are visually stunning, showcasing incredible artistry and sound design. War zones come alive with visible enemy hordes battling Cadians. Every element, from buildings to terrain, feels meticulously crafted, inviting players to pause and admire the scenery. The game's camera mode is also well-executed.


The audio experience is equally impressive. Sound effects, music, and voice acting blend seamlessly, creating a cohesive and masterful presentation. The game stands out effortlessly among its peers, like a well-dressed individual at a gathering. For someone new to Warhammer 40k, this game makes a compelling case for exploring the franchise further.

To complement the short campaign, side missions allow you to control a squad working alongside Titus and his team. This interesting concept enriches the campaign by offering different perspectives on each mission.

The PvP mode evokes nostalgia for simpler multiplayer experiences, reminiscent of early Halo games. Maps are easy to grasp, visually appealing, and well-balanced, keeping the focus on combat and objectives. This approach is often overlooked in modern arena shooters. Three game modes are available: deathmatch, King of the Hill with multiple capture points, and a single moving objective mode. Games are quick, and players use preset classes, unlocking weapons as they level up.

Character customization is extensive, offering various colors, decals, and armor pieces to unlock in-game. Notably, only one cosmetic item is available for purchase with the most expensive game edition; all others are earned through gameplay. The range of customization options is vast.

Special abilities add depth to gameplay. In the campaign, each main character has a unique skill, while PvP and side missions let you choose. The jump pack, for instance, allows quick movement and devastating aerial attacks.

Despite its brevity, the campaign is visually stunning. Levels showcase incredible artistry and sound design, bringing war zones to life with visible enemy hordes battling Cadians. Every element feels meticulously crafted, inviting players to pause and admire the scenery. The game's camera mode is also well-executed.


The audio experience is equally impressive, with cohesive sound effects, music, and voice acting. The game's presentation stands out effortlessly among its peers. For Warhammer 40k newcomers, it makes a compelling case for exploring the franchise further.

Side missions enrich the campaign by offering different perspectives on each mission through squad-based gameplay. PvP modes evoke nostalgia for simpler multiplayer experiences, with well-balanced maps focusing on combat and objectives. Three quick game modes are available, using preset classes with unlockable weapons.

Character customization is extensive, with most options unlockable through gameplay. Only one cosmetic item requires purchasing the most expensive game edition.

As someone who typically avoids heavy gameplay and third-person shooters, and isn't a Warhammer 40k enthusiast, I'm surprised to say Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 is a top contender for my game of the year. Every moment was enjoyable. It's incredibly fun solo, with AI companions performing adequately even on the highest difficulty. While the AI can struggle, especially with jump packs, they generally keep pace and contribute significantly. The fun multiplies when playing with friends, and I highly recommend it for duos or trios. This game is comprehensive, offering great visuals and gameplay, with more content promised. I'm eager to see what else the developers have in store. They've truly excelled in creating an outstanding sequel to the original Space Marine.

• Smooth, intense combat
• Stunning graphics
• Enjoyable solo or co-op
• Basic but fun PvP mode
• Brief campaign