Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 enthusiasts are thrilled as developers open up their internal editor to modders, paving the way for a vibrant, long-lasting community-driven game akin to Skyrim.
Game director Dmitry Grigorenko announced a major step forward for modders on the Space Marine 2 Discord, calling it “our most significant achievement in supporting the modding community.”
Saber Interactive has made its Integration Studio publicly available, the same tool used by developers for crafting gameplay. This initial release allows modders to modify level designs, game modes, AI behaviors, abilities, melee mechanics, user interfaces, and HUD elements, streamlining the modding process for Space Marine 2.
“We promised to back the modding community, and we’re delivering,” Grigorenko stated. “It’s inspiring to see this community expand, innovate, and craft remarkable experiences. We can’t wait to see your creations, whether it’s an epic campaign, a bold new game mode, or something entirely unexpected.”
To spark inspiration, Grigorenko shared playful concept art for a “Fishing With Daddy Calgar” mini-game, featuring Marneus Calgar, leader of the Ultramarines, now feasible with these tools.
I spoke with Tom, known as Warhammer Workshop, the creator of Space Marine 2’s acclaimed Astartes Overhaul mod. Having recently launched a mod enabling 12-player co-op, Tom shared that he now has access to scripting tools controlling mission events, weapons, and abilities.
This opens the door to innovative modes, like a roguelite where players start with just a combat knife in a swarm sequence, facing increasingly tougher enemies with chances to gain weapons, ammo, or health upon defeating foes. “Defeating a Carnifex could reward you with a Heavy Bolter,” Tom explained.
While a Chaos-themed campaign is possible, Tom noted that cutscenes remain challenging due to limited access to animation tools.
Tom is currently working on introducing new factions like the Tau and Necrons, leveraging available rigs. Meanwhile, the community is eagerly competing to bring the “Fishing With Daddy Calgar” mini-game to life, as challenged by Grigorenko.
Fans of Space Marine 2 are overwhelmingly enthusiastic, and for good reason. Despite its success as one of the top-selling Warhammer video games, the game’s official content is limited to three factions: Space Marines, Chaos (including Chaos Marines and Tzeentch Daemons), and Tyranids. While players anticipated DLC to expand factions (with Necrons teased in the campaign), modders can now take charge.
“This is how you ensure a game thrives for years, like Skyrim,” remarked redditor Mortwight.
This development is especially noteworthy as Saber Interactive and Focus Entertainment announced Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 3 is in the works. Some fans worried about the future of Space Marine 2’s DLC, but both companies have reaffirmed their commitment to the game. With modders now equipped with the editor, Space Marine 2’s future looks brighter than ever.
