About the Game

Warhammer 40K Space Marine 2 was one of the most awaited games of the year for me, especially since I’ve loved the Warhammer 40K universe since my childhood, thanks to the strategy game Dawn of War. The game is set to release on the 9th of this month and will be available on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series. But did it meet expectations?

Gameplay

Warhammer 40K: Space Marine 2 is a third-person action game with a linear storyline. While it might remind you of Gears of War, it’s more like Doom, emphasizing intense combat and forward momentum instead of hiding behind cover.

In this game, you’ll fight enemies using a mix of melee combat with swords and ranged combat with firearms. The protagonist, Titus, a lieutenant from the Ultramarines, leads a small squad comprising Chairon and Gadriel. Unfortunately, you can’t control these companions—they fight alongside you through AI, though they can be played in multiplayer modes. One downside is the lack of matchmaking for co-op story mode.

You’ll use firearms against weaker enemies but will rely on melee attacks with swords for tougher foes. Parrying enemy attacks is critical as it opens opportunities for powerful finishing moves, but not all attacks can be parried, requiring quick dodges instead.

Marines are protected by shields, which regenerate over time when avoiding damage. However, health does not regenerate and can only be restored with limited medkits (up to two). A critical mechanic is executing enemies, which rewards shield regeneration.

The game features three weapon categories: melee swords, pistols, and rifles. Unfortunately, there aren’t many variations within these categories, and they lack gameplay depth. Melee combat is especially shallow, offering no combos and relying on repetitive swings.

Repetition is one of the game’s biggest flaws. The story mode becomes monotonous quickly, with tasks like fighting waves of enemies followed by more waves, offering little variation. Even boss fights, while a highlight, can’t fully offset the lack of diversity in combat.

Enemies lack variety, mainly split into weak hordes and stronger individuals, both of which follow predictable patterns. The linear level design is uninspiring, with no side paths or meaningful collectibles beyond optional audio logs.

The lack of progression is another issue. There’s no system for upgrading your character’s health, shield durability, or ultimate ability. Weapons can’t be upgraded either, leaving the game feeling like a relic of the PS2 era.

The online modes include PvE co-op missions and PvP battles (6v6 modes like Team Deathmatch). Customization options exist for armor appearance, but matchmaking issues and generic multiplayer design limit the appeal.

The user interface is also poorly designed. Switching between story and online modes is cumbersome, requiring players to navigate an in-game terminal instead of a straightforward main menu.

Story and World

The story revolves around a war between humanity and alien factions in the expansive Warhammer 40K universe. Unfortunately, newcomers to the franchise may struggle to understand the context without prior knowledge.

The main character, Titus, seeks redemption after his imprisonment, leading him to join the Deathwatch in a mission to repel the Tyranid invasion and uncover secrets about the Aurora weapon.

The relationships between Titus and his squadmates, Chairon and Gadriel, add emotional depth, evolving from mere comrades to brothers in arms.

Art Direction and Technical Performance

The game’s artistic design is stunning, especially in portraying large-scale battles with thousands of soldiers and aliens. The mix of futuristic and medieval architecture adds a unique aesthetic.

Technically, the game runs at 30 FPS in quality mode, which feels underwhelming given its linear nature and moderate graphics. Visuals are pleasing but lack a groundbreaking leap in fidelity.

Sound effects and music complement the chaotic atmosphere, with epic battle themes that enhance immersion.

Final Verdict

7/10

After a 13-year wait, Space Marine 2 feels like a hesitant sequel, failing to innovate meaningfully. Its linear story mode is repetitive and uninspired, while online modes suffer from technical issues.

Cons

• Repetitive and basic combat

• Linear and uninspired level design

• Technical issues in online modes

• No meaningful progression or upgrades

Pros

• Engaging story and rich world-building

• Visually stunning large-scale battles