Even though it’s been over ten years since its last edition, Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 is incredibly true to the original cult-favorite game, Space Marine, which fans have anxiously awaited to see revamped. You can now grab Space Marine 2 for a steal this Black Friday—physical copies are available for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X at the lowest prices yet. While the PC version doesn’t have as steep a discount, you can still snag a Steam code from Fanatical for $52.79, down from $59.99.
Space Marine 2 skips the unnecessary extras of many blockbuster action titles, embracing a minimalist approach that suits it perfectly. The narrative unfolds in the war-torn 41st millennium. Here, Titus, a seasoned Ultramarine loyal to the Emperor, returns to action after centuries away from the front lines.
Venturing into the Warhammer 40,000 universe is like diving into a richly layered saga. Over the years, I’ve poured over countless codices and rulebooks, delved into novels set millennia in the past that explore the origins of the Space Marines, and trawled the web for fan theories. What really struck me about Space Marine 2 is just how user-friendly it is—there’s no need to split your attention by researching as you play. Yet, the game fully embraces the 40K aesthetic, with details like robotic cherubs and the mechanized cultists inhabiting Titus’ warship showcase its rich lore. The campaign backdrop captures the colossal, gothic, and often over-the-top grandeur of the Imperium and its loyal Imperial Guard superbly.
But if there’s one element of Space Marine 2 that truly stands out, it’s the combat. Titus rampages through wave after wave of Tyranids, tearing them apart with his power gauntlets and crushing them beneath his massive boots. Throw in some thrilling weaponry—like a flamethrower to scorch Rippers or a laser sniper for precision takedowns—and you’re in for a wildly entertaining adventure.