Space Marine 2 Embraces Modding: Tau, Necrons, and Even a Fishing Mini-Game Added

Fans of Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 are buzzing with excitement after the developer, Saber Interactive, opened up its internal editor to modders. This move has sparked hopes that the game could enjoy a long-lasting life akin to Skyrim, fueled by user-generated content. Game director Dmitry Grigorenko made the announcement on the Space Marine 2 modding Discord, calling it "our biggest milestone yet in supporting the modding community."

Saber Interactive has released the official Integration Studio for public use, the very same editor used by the developers for all aspects of gameplay development. This initial release empowers modders to work on everything from level scenarios and game modes to AI behavior, abilities, melee combo logic, user interfaces, and HUD elements, streamlining the modding process for Space Marine 2.

Grigorenko emphasized the developer's commitment to the modding scene, saying, “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 shared humorous concept art for a "Fishing With Daddy Calgar" mini-game, hinting at the possibilities now within reach.

To understand the community's plans for this powerful tool, I spoke with Tom, also known as Warhammer Workshop, the creator of the acclaimed Space Marine 2’s Astartes Overhaul mod. Fresh from releasing a 12-player co-op mod, Tom now has access to all the scripting tools that govern mission dynamics and game components like weapons and abilities. He envisions modders creating a roguelite mode where players start with just a combat knife and face escalating challenges, with the potential to earn powerful weapons like a Heavy Bolter by defeating tough enemies like a Carnifex.

While a new cinematic campaign featuring Chaos is feasible, Tom noted that creating cutscenes remains challenging due to limited access to animation tools. However, he's already planning to introduce new factions such as the Tau and Necrons, utilizing available rigs. Meanwhile, the community is enthusiastically working on the "Fishing With Daddy Calgar" mini-game mod that Grigorenko playfully suggested.

The reaction from Space Marine 2 fans has been overwhelmingly positive. Although the game is well-received and one of the best-selling Warhammer video games, it's limited to three factions: Space Marines, Chaos, and the Tyrannids. With the modding tools, fans can now expand the game's roster and fulfill their hopes for additional content, including teased factions like the Necrons.

Redditor Mortwight commented, “This is how you keep a game alive for years like Skyrim,” highlighting the potential for long-term engagement through modding. This development is especially timely given Saber and publisher Focus Entertainment's announcement of Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 3 being in development. While some fans worry about the future of Space Marine 2's DLC, both companies have reassured that they are not abandoning the game. With modders now wielding the editor, Space Marine 2 is poised for an extended and vibrant future.