The developers and publisher of Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 have firmly stated that they are not aiming to transform the game into a full-blown live service model, following backlash from the community over events perceived as fostering "FOMO" (Fear Of Missing Out). FOMO is a strategy commonly employed by live service games to spur immediate player engagement and expenditure on limited-time virtual items, suggesting that missing out now means losing the chance forever.
This approach has drawn criticism for fostering an unhealthy dynamic between games and their communities. In 2021, research commissioned by the UK's GambleAware charity highlighted that many games use psychological tactics, such as the fear of missing out on limited-time offers or special deals, to encourage purchases of loot boxes. Although Space Marine 2 does not feature loot boxes, the introduction of community events designed to unlock exclusive cosmetics has sparked a backlash, with some players labeling the game as a "live service."
In response to these concerns, Space Marine 2's publisher, Focus Entertainment, and developer, Saber Interactive, acknowledged the "cold feedback" regarding the community events. They assured players that the items offered during these events would be made available again in the future for everyone. Their statement emphasized a commitment to not turning Space Marine 2 into a full live service game and highlighted that community events are meant to offer dedicated players an early chance to unlock items, rather than causing frustration or stress.
Focus Entertainment is taking steps to address these issues by offering the coveted emblem-less Mk VIII Errant Helmet for free to players who link their PROS account to Space Marine 2. This helmet was part of the Imperial Vigil community event, which ends on March 3, and was previously only accessible to players who achieved a victory with each of the six classes in Operations Mode by the deadline.
As players await the upcoming 7.0 update, which promises a new weapon, a new Operations map, and PvE Prestige Ranks, Focus and Saber have also responded to frustrations over content scarcity, outlining future plans for Space Marine 2. The game, which launched to record-breaking sales and became the fastest-selling Warhammer video game of all time, has sold 5 million copies since its release last year.
