Fans of Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 are buzzing with excitement as the developer, Saber Interactive, has opened the doors to its internal editor for modders, igniting hopes that the game could enjoy a prolonged lifespan akin to Skyrim through user-generated content. Game director Dmitry Grigorenko took to the Space Marine 2 modding Discord to celebrate what he termed "our biggest milestone yet in supporting the modding community."
Saber Interactive has made the official Integration Studio available to the public, providing the same tools used by the developers for gameplay development. This initial release enables modders to manipulate various aspects of the game, including level scenarios, game modes, AI behavior, abilities, melee combo logic, user interface, and HUD elements, making modding more accessible and efficient.
Grigorenko reaffirmed the commitment to the modding community, 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, Grigorenko shared humorous concept art for a potential "Fishing With Daddy Calgar" mini-game, showcasing the new possibilities with these tools. Marneus Calgar, the leader of the Ultramarines chapter, is now the star of this playful modding challenge.
To understand the modding community's plans, I spoke with Tom, known as Warhammer Workshop, the creator of the Space Marine 2's Astartes Overhaul mod. Having just released a mod that enables 12-player co-op, Tom now has access to all the scripting tools that control mission dynamics and game components like weapons and abilities. He envisions possibilities such as a roguelite mode where players start with just a combat knife and face progressively tougher enemies, with chances to gain weapons, ammo, and health upon defeating foes. "Killing a Carnifex might grant you a Heavy Bolter," Tom suggested.
While a new cinematic campaign, particularly a Chaos campaign, is feasible, Tom noted that creating cutscenes is challenging without access to the necessary animation tools. However, he is currently working on adding new factions like the Tau and Necrons, utilizing existing rigs. Meanwhile, the community is eager to take on the challenge of creating the "Fishing With Daddy Calgar" mini-game mod.
The response from Space Marine 2 fans has been overwhelmingly positive. Although the game is already a commercial success and one of the best-selling Warhammer video games, its official content is limited to three factions: Space Marines, Chaos, and the Tyrannids. With the release of the editor, players can now expand the game's roster, including factions like the Necrons hinted at in the campaign.
"This is how you keep a game alive for years like Skyrim," remarked redditor Mortwight, highlighting the potential longevity of Space Marine 2 through modding. This development is particularly noteworthy given Saber and publisher Focus Entertainment's recent announcement of Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 3. Although some fans worry about the implications for future DLC, both Saber and Focus have assured that they will not abandon Space Marine 2. With modders now wielding the editor, the game's future looks brighter than ever.
