"Space Marine 2 Modders Plan Tau, Necrons Additions; Start with Fishing Mini-Game"

Fans of Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 are celebrating a significant development as the game's developer, Saber Interactive, has opened up its internal editor to the modding community. This move has sparked enthusiasm among players, who now believe the game could enjoy a long-lasting life similar to that of Skyrim, thanks to user-generated content.

Game director Dmitry Grigorenko took to the Space Marine 2 modding Discord to announce this major step forward, calling it "our biggest milestone yet in supporting the modding community." The release of the official Integration Studio for public use marks a pivotal moment, as it's the same tool the developers use for all gameplay development. This initial release empowers modders to engage with a wide range of elements, from level scenarios and game modes to AI behavior, abilities, melee combo logic, user interface, and HUD elements, streamlining the modding process for Space Marine 2.

Grigorenko emphasized the studio's commitment to the modding scene, stating, "Not long ago, I promised we would support the modding scene — and we meant it. Watching this community grow, push boundaries, and create incredible experiences has been both inspiring and humbling. We’re excited to see what you build next — whether it’s a cinematic campaign, wild new game mode, or something we never saw coming." To kick things off, he playfully shared concept art for a "Fishing With Daddy Calgar" mini-game, highlighting the creative possibilities now at modders' fingertips.

To understand the potential of this editor, I spoke with Tom, known as Warhammer Workshop, the modder behind Space Marine 2’s excellent Astartes Overhaul. After releasing a mod that enables 12-player co-op, Tom now has access to all the scripting tools that govern mission dynamics and game components like weapons and abilities. This opens up exciting possibilities, such as creating a roguelite mode where players start with just a combat knife and face escalating challenges, with the chance to earn better weapons like a Heavy Bolter upon defeating formidable enemies like a Carnifex.

While a new cinematic campaign, such as a Chaos campaign, is within reach, Tom noted that creating cutscenes remains challenging without access to the necessary animation tools. However, he is working on introducing new factions like the Tau and Necrons, thanks to available rigs. Meanwhile, the modding community is eagerly working on the "Fishing With Daddy Calgar" mini-game that Grigorenko challenged them to create.

The response from Space Marine 2 fans has been overwhelmingly positive. Although the game has been well-received and is among the best-selling Warhammer video games, its official content is limited to three factions: Space Marines, Chaos, and the Tyrannids. Players had hoped for DLC to expand the faction roster, especially with the Necrons teased in the campaign. Now, with the editor in hand, the community can take the initiative to enhance the game's scope.

Redditor Mortwight encapsulated the sentiment, saying, "This is how you keep a game alive for years like Skyrim." This development is particularly timely given Saber and publisher Focus Entertainment's announcement of Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 3 being in development. While some fans expressed concerns about the future of Space Marine 2 DLC, both Saber and Focus have reassured fans that they are not abandoning the game. With modders now empowered, Space Marine 2 is poised for a vibrant future.