Space Marine 2 Modders to Add Tau, Necrons, and More, Starting with a Fishing Mini-Game

Fans of Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 are thrilled as the developer, Saber Interactive, has empowered the modding community by releasing its internal editor, the Integration Studio, for public use. This move has sparked optimism among players, who hope the game could enjoy a long lifespan fueled by user-generated content, much like the enduring success of Skyrim.

Game director Dmitry Grigorenko shared the exciting news on the Space Marine 2 modding Discord, calling it "our biggest milestone yet in supporting the modding community." The Integration Studio, previously used internally by developers for all gameplay elements, is now accessible to modders. This tool allows them to create and modify level scenarios, game modes, AI behavior, abilities, melee combos, user interfaces, and HUD elements, significantly simplifying and accelerating the modding process.

Grigorenko reiterated the developer's commitment to the modding scene, stating, "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 off the modding frenzy, Grigorenko shared humorous concept art for a "Fishing With Daddy Calgar" mini-game, featuring Marneus Calgar, the leader of the Ultramarines chapter. This playful challenge has already set the community buzzing, with modders racing to create the first such mod using the newly released tools.

To understand the potential impact of the editor, I spoke with Tom, known as Warhammer Workshop, the modder behind Space Marine 2’s excellent Astartes Overhaul. Tom, who recently enabled 12-player co-op, now has access to all the scripting tools that govern mission dynamics and game components such as weapons and abilities. He envisions the possibility of creating a roguelite mode where players start with just a combat knife and face progressively tougher enemies, with chances to gain weapons and health upon defeating foes.

While a new cinematic campaign featuring Chaos is feasible, Tom noted that creating cutscenes remains challenging without access to animation tools. However, he is actively working on introducing new factions like the Tau and Necrons, utilizing available character rigs.

The reaction from the Space Marine 2 community has been overwhelmingly positive. Despite the game's success and status as one of the best-selling Warhammer video games, its official content is limited to three factions: Space Marines, Chaos, and the Tyrannids. With the editor now in modders' hands, players can expand the game's universe themselves, fulfilling hopes for additional content teased in the campaign, such as the Necrons.

Redditor Mortwight encapsulated the sentiment, stating, "This is how you keep a game alive for years like Skyrim."

This development comes at an interesting time, as Saber Interactive and publisher Focus Entertainment have announced Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 3 is in development. While some fans worry about the impact on Space Marine 2 DLC, both companies have reassured that they are not abandoning the current game. With the modding community now empowered, Space Marine 2 is poised for a vibrant future.