Engaging with Space Marine 2 during its early unlock phase has been an exhilarating experience, despite some campaign design choices that lean heavily towards cooperative play. Players can expect a flurry of objectives to tackle while fending off relentless attacks, often with AI allies who may not be the most reliable in keeping enemies at bay. Nevertheless, the thrill of battling through swarms of tyranids is undeniably enjoyable, reminiscent of a culinary tasting menu where each wave presents a new challenge, akin to cracking open the shells of stubborn lobsters.
Immersive Photo Mode
One of the standout features of playing Space Marine 2 solo is the freedom to explore the photo mode at leisure. Accessing this mode is as simple as pressing F, allowing players to create their own dioramas with a variety of tools. Among these is the ability to adjust the facial expressions of the marines, resulting in some rather amusing screenshots where Titus and his squad appear to be gurning with gusto.
Additionally, this mode provides a unique opportunity to appreciate the grand scale of the game’s set pieces. Players often find themselves stepping into expansive battlefields, where the chaos of war unfolds—soldiers struggle in the mud, tanks unleash barrages on advancing foes, and the air crackles with lasfire. Each moment feels like a live-action Warhammer 40,000 game, prompting players to pause and capture the scene in all its glory.
Enhanced Character Design
Space Marine 2 excels in showcasing the impressive scale of its characters. While the original game featured firstborn marines towering over regular troops, the sequel introduces primaris marines, further enhanced through transhumanization. These formidable figures dwarf the serfs, tech-priests, and lasgun-wielding Astra Militarum, who appear almost childlike in comparison.
The attention to detail is remarkable, allowing players to zoom in on intricate elements such as the glowing green text on datapads or the gothic aesthetics of scrolls and candles adorning computer terminals. The game playfully suggests that instead of RGB lighting, a desktop setup would be better adorned with dribbly candles and perhaps a servo-skull or cherub reminiscent of a Terminator hovering nearby.
