Space Marine 2 Modders Plan to Add Tau, Necrons, and More, Starting with a Fishing Mini-Game

Fans of Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 are buzzing with excitement following a major announcement from the game's developer. In a move that could see the game enjoying a long lifespan akin to Skyrim, Saber Interactive has empowered the modding community by releasing its internal editor, the Integration Studio, for public use. This tool, used by developers for crafting all aspects of the game, is now in the hands of modders, promising a wave of user-generated content.

Game director Dmitry Grigorenko shared the news on the Space Marine 2 modding Discord, describing it as a pivotal moment for modding support. "Not long ago, I promised we would support the modding scene — and we meant it," Grigorenko stated. He praised the community's creativity and is eager to see what new experiences modders will create, from cinematic campaigns to innovative game modes.

To kick things off, Grigorenko humorously introduced the concept of a "Fishing With Daddy Calgar" mini-game, hinting at the potential for unique mods. Marneus Calgar, the leader of the Ultramarines, could now star in a fishing adventure, thanks to the newly available tools.

To delve into the community's plans, I spoke with Tom, known as Warhammer Workshop, the creator of the acclaimed Astartes Overhaul mod for Space Marine 2. Fresh from enabling 12-player co-op, Tom now has access to scripting tools that control mission dynamics and game components. He envisions creating a roguelite mode where players start with just a combat knife and face escalating challenges, with chances to acquire weapons and health upon defeating enemies.

While a new cinematic campaign featuring Chaos is feasible, Tom noted that cutscenes might be challenging due to limited access to animation tools. However, he's working on adding new factions like the Tau and Necrons, thanks to available rigs. Meanwhile, the community is eager to develop the playful "Fishing With Daddy Calgar" mini-game that Grigorenko challenged them to create.

The reaction from fans has been overwhelmingly positive. Space Marine 2 has been well-received and is one of the best-selling Warhammer video games, yet it initially offered only three factions: Space Marines, Chaos, and the Tyranids. With modding tools now accessible, players can expand the game's universe themselves, especially since the campaign hinted at the inclusion of Necrons.

"This is how you keep a game alive for years like Skyrim," remarked redditor Mortwight, echoing the sentiment that modding could significantly extend the game's longevity.

This development comes at an interesting time, as Saber and publisher Focus Entertainment have announced that Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 3 is in development. Despite some fans worrying about the future of DLC for Space Marine 2, both companies have reassured that the game will continue to be supported. With the modding editor now in the hands of the community, Space Marine 2 is poised for a vibrant future.