Fans of *Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2* are thrilled as the game's developer, Saber Interactive, has granted modders access to its internal editor, sparking hopes that the game could enjoy a long-lasting life similar to *Skyrim* through user-generated content. In a significant move to support the modding community, game director Dmitry Grigorenko announced this development on the Space Marine 2 modding Discord, calling it "our biggest milestone yet."
The release of the official Integration Studio allows modders to utilize the same tools that the developers use for gameplay development. This initial release enables them to modify everything from level scenarios and game modes to AI behavior, abilities, melee combo logic, and user interface elements, making the modding process for *Space Marine 2* more efficient and accessible.
Grigorenko emphasized the studio's commitment to the modding scene, 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 playfully shared concept art for a potential "Fishing With Daddy Calgar" mini-game, featuring Marneus Calgar, the leader of the Ultramarines chapter, showcasing the new possibilities this editor enables.
To understand the community's plans, I spoke with Tom, also known as Warhammer Workshop, the modder behind Space Marine 2's excellent Astartes Overhaul. Tom, who recently released a mod enabling 12-player co-op, now has access to all scripting tools that control mission dynamics and game components like weapons and abilities. He suggested that modders could create a roguelite mode, where players start with just a combat knife and face increasingly challenging enemies, with chances to gain weapons, ammo, and health upon defeating foes. "Killing a Carnifex might grant you a Heavy Bolter," Tom proposed.
While a new cinematic campaign, such as one centered around the Chaos faction, is feasible, Tom noted that creating cutscenes remains challenging due to the lack of access to animation tools. However, he is planning to add new factions like the Tau and Necrons, as the modders have suitable rigs for these.
Meanwhile, the modding community is eagerly working on the "Fishing With Daddy Calgar" mini-game, as challenged by Grigorenko.
The reaction from *Space Marine 2* fans has been overwhelmingly positive. While the game is well-received and among the best-selling Warhammer video games, it initially offered only three factions: Space Marines, Chaos, and the Tyrannids. With the release of the editor, fans can now expand the game's scope themselves, especially since DLC adding more factions was hoped for but not confirmed.
"This is how you keep a game alive for years like Skyrim," remarked redditor Mortwight, highlighting the potential longevity this modding support could bring.
This development is particularly noteworthy with the announcement of *Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 3* in development. While some fans worry about the impact on potential DLC for *Space Marine 2*, both Saber Interactive and Focus Entertainment have reassured that they are not abandoning the game. With modders now empowered with the editor, *Space Marine 2* is set for a vibrant future.
