In a year that has seen a limited number of new shooter games, the arrival of Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 stands out as a significant highlight. This eagerly awaited sequel to the beloved 2011 original immerses players in the formidable armor of the Imperium’s Ultramarines, engaging them in epic battles against relentless swarms of alien Tyranids. The gameplay is reminiscent of the intense action found in Gears of War, delivering a thrilling experience that is both explosive and immersive.
Officially launching on September 9, the game is available on Xbox Series X|S, Windows PC, and PS5. However, players eager to dive into the action can take advantage of Early Access by preordering the Gold or Ultra Edition. Currently, all versions of the game are being offered at enticing discounts: the Standard Edition is priced at $49.99 (down from $59.99), the Gold Edition at $79.99 (previously $89.99), and the Ultra Edition at $99.99 (originally $119.99).
The best Back to School deals
The excitement surrounding Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 has been palpable since its announcement at The Game Awards in 2021. As the release date neared, anticipation only intensified, leading to a successful Early Access launch characterized by a wave of positive reviews. This sequel, which builds upon the foundations of its predecessor released 13 years ago, offers a thrilling third-person shooter experience that challenges players to confront overwhelming odds while showcasing the brutal nature of Warhammer 40,000 warfare.
Similar to this year’s Helldivers 2, the game features co-op play, allowing friends to join forces against the Tyranids. However, unlike some open-world titles, Space Marine 2 adopts a more structured campaign-style mission format. Players can engage in three-player co-op for the story campaign, as well as explore a dedicated co-op mode called Operations, which serves as a follow-up campaign for Ultramarines. For those who enjoy competitive play, the 6v6 Eternal War mode offers a chance to battle against Chaos forces.
Ultramarines of the Imperium ready their weapons as they prepare to battle incoming Tyranids.
(Image credit: Focus Entertainment)
Despite not being a lifelong fan of the Warhammer 40,000 universe, the allure of Space Marine 2 is undeniable, particularly for those who enjoy cooperative shooters. According to my colleague Samuel Tolbert, a devoted fan of the franchise, “smashing through Xenos has never been more cathartic than in Saber Interactive’s Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2.” This sentiment is echoed in numerous reviews, positioning the game as a top contender among current PC and Xbox offerings for shooter enthusiasts.
Given the game’s immense popularity and the fact that it has yet to be fully released, the current discounts are surprisingly generous, offering a 14% reduction in price. For those considering the Gold or Ultra Edition to access Early Access, now is an opportune moment to make a purchase and save some money.
It is worth noting that the system requirements for Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 are quite demanding. Unfortunately, this means that players using the less powerful Steam Deck may face challenges at launch. However, more capable gaming handhelds like the ASUS ROG Ally are expected to handle the game more efficiently.