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

Fans of *Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2* are thrilled as the game's developer, Saber Interactive, has empowered the modding community by releasing the keys to its internal editor. This move has sparked optimism that the game could enjoy a prolonged lifespan, much like *Skyrim*, fueled by user-generated content.

Game director Dmitry Grigorenko announced this pivotal development on the Space Marine 2 modding Discord, labeling it as "our biggest milestone yet in supporting the modding community." The release of the official Integration Studio, the same tool used internally by developers for all gameplay development, marks a significant step forward. This initial release enables modders to customize everything from level scenarios and game modes to AI behavior, abilities, melee combos, user interface, and HUD elements, making modding more accessible and efficient.

Grigorenko reiterated his 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 shared humorous concept art for a "Fishing With Daddy Calgar" mini-game, suggesting the new tools could even support such playful additions. Marneus Calgar, the leader of the Ultramarines, stars in this whimsical concept. The race is now on to create this fishing mini-game, with the community eager to rise to the challenge.

In a conversation with Tom, known as *Warhammer Workshop* and creator of the *Astartes Overhaul* mod, I learned about the exciting possibilities this editor unlocks. Tom, fresh from enabling 12-player co-op in Space Marine 2, now has access to all the scripting tools that control mission dynamics and various game components like weapons and abilities. This could lead to innovative modes such as a roguelite where players start with just a combat knife and face escalating challenges, with chances to acquire weapons and health from defeated enemies. "Killing a Carnifex might grant you a Heavy Bolter," Tom suggested.

While a new cinematic campaign featuring Chaos is feasible, Tom noted that creating cutscenes remains challenging without access to animation tools. Nonetheless, he plans to introduce new factions like the Tau and Necrons, utilizing available rigs.

The reaction from Space Marine 2 fans has been overwhelmingly positive. The game, already a top-selling Warhammer title, offers only three factions: Space Marines, Chaos, and the Tyrannids. With modders now able to take the reins, fans can look forward to expanded content and new factions, such as the teased Necrons.

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

This development comes at an interesting time, with Saber and publisher Focus Entertainment announcing that *Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 3* is in development. While some fans worry about the impact on potential DLC for Space Marine 2, both companies have reassured that they will continue supporting the game. With the modding community now empowered, Space Marine 2 is poised for a bright future.