Modders for Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 have consistently delivered impressive content since the game's highly successful launch last year. However, their recent achievement of enabling 12-player co-op may very well be their crowning accomplishment yet.
Tom, known as Warhammer Workshop, the mastermind behind the exceptional Astartes Overhaul mod, unveiled the 12-player co-op feature this week, and it looks nothing short of spectacular. Footage showcases multiple players engaging in an intense battle against a Tyranid Trygon Prime, reminiscent of MMO-style boss fights.
This is something fans never anticipated, as the original game only supported up to three-player co-op. Yet, the modding team, with the backing of developer Saber Interactive, has not only surpassed this limitation but is also setting ambitious goals to elevate Space Marine 2 to new heights.
"Saber’s support for the modding community is incredible," Tom shared with IGN. "We didn’t think 12-player PvE would be feasible this quickly, but thanks to their generosity and trust, this major advancement is here, transforming what we can achieve."
It’s important to note that the current mod is still in testing stages, though it functions flawlessly. The introduction of 12-player co-op significantly disrupts the game's balance, which is expected due to the increased number of players tackling Tyranids and Thousand Sons.
With 12-player co-op now accessible, modders are enhancing features to maximize its potential. Tom mentioned the team is developing new modes such as prop hunt, PvP within operations, substantial updates for the upcoming official horde mode, and perhaps most thrillingly, raid-style missions featuring bosses requiring strategic teamwork and introducing innovative mechanics.
The modding community for Space Marine 2 is thriving, boasting approximately 20,000 active members in the primary Discord server.
"As both a modder and a player, it’s impossible not to be thrilled," Tom added. "Massive credit goes to Saber for not only enabling all this but also continuously delivering outstanding content without the typical exploitative battle pass systems prevalent in modern titles."
Could this 12-player mod offer insight into what Space Marine 3 might deliver? It’s an exhilarating period for Space Marine 2 enthusiasts, with the imminent arrival of the horde mode, a new class in development, and additional Operation maps and weapons. Saber recently outlined Patch 8, confirmed some horde mode mechanics, and revealed the map it will feature.
Officially, Space Marine 3 is also in progress, unsurprising given Space Marine 2's success. I am left pondering whether this 12-player co-op mod might hint at what to expect from the sequel. When Space Marine 3 was announced, we were promised "even more spectacular large-scale battles." That certainly aligns with increasing the co-op player count.
In the meantime, modders will continue to keep the game fresh and engaging, and this latest endeavor is a prime example of their dedication.
AnswerSee Results
