Warhammer 40k: Space Marine 2 Dev Rejects Live Service Model Amid 'FOMO' Backlash

The development and publishing teams behind Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 have reassured fans that they are not aiming to transition the game into a full-fledged live-service model following criticism of recent community events perceived as fostering "FOMO," or the fear of missing out.

FOMO is a strategy frequently employed by live-service game creators to push players toward quick engagement and spending on limited-time virtual items. The implication is that if players fail to acquire these items during their availability window, they risk losing them forever. This approach has faced criticism for cultivating an unhealthy relationship between games and their communities. Research commissioned by the UK’s GambleAware charity in 2021 revealed that many games use psychological triggers, such as the fear of missing out on exclusive items or offers, to encourage purchases like loot boxes.

While Space Marine 2 does not feature loot boxes, it recently introduced community events aimed at unlocking sought-after cosmetic items. These events have sparked backlash, with some labeling the game as a live-service title. In response to the negative feedback, publisher Focus Entertainment and developer Saber Interactive acknowledged the chilly reception and admitted that the events had generated FOMO among players. They emphasized that all items made accessible through these events will become available to everyone at a later date.

In a public statement, the companies apologized for the current experience and committed to simplifying the process of unlocking items. To ease tensions, Focus Entertainment is offering the highly desired Mk VIII Errant Helmet (without the emblem) for free to all players who link their PROS accounts (Focus Entertainment’s account management system) to Space Marine 2. This helmet was originally part of the Imperial Vigil community event, which concluded on March 3, and was previously obtainable only by achieving victories with six different classes in Operations Mode before the deadline.

Players eagerly anticipate the upcoming 7.0 update, which promises a new weapon, a fresh Operations map, and PvE Prestige Ranks. Focus and Saber also recently addressed concerns over content scarcity, outlining future developments for the game. Despite these challenges, Space Marine 2 achieved impressive success upon its release, selling 5 million copies and becoming the fastest-selling Warhammer video game in history.