Coming a whole decade after its predecessor, Warhammer 40k: Space Marine 2 was one of the most anticipated releases of last month (and of the year in general). It spent just the right amount of time in the development oven too, as the final product is a fantastic squad shooter with immersive aesthetics and a decent level of challenge. If you've yet to add it to your Steam library, the cheapest way to do so is to buy it through Fanatical, where it is 12% off.
In our best Warhammer 40k games of all time.
Although it's primarily made to be enjoyed with a group of friends as one of the best co-op games, solo players need not be concerned, because the rest of your squad can be controlled by some (actually intelligent) AI. They won't just stand around waiting to get shot, or look the other way while a Tyranid warrior goes for you. It's great.
The Tyranids themselves are pretty cool too. There are loads of different types of them – some of which are easy to shoot down from a distance, while others are bigger and more powerful and require you to think strategically and parry their attacks. Sheer force won't always work which helps give the game a decent sense of variety – as time goes by, you'll start to recognize the different types and the technique required to take them out.
It can be pretty challenging sometimes, but never unfair. While you will be bested by those hideous insect aliens occasionally, there are enough checkpoints that you won't find yourself having to repeat huge swathes of things when you lose. Instead, you can just focus on the challenge ahead, and find the right way to face each wave of foes.
If you like the Gears of War series or the first Space Marine game (or indeed, the Warhammer 40k universe in general), chances are this is going to be right up your alley. Here's how much each version of the game costs with the Fanatical deal in place:
- Space Marine 2 Standard Edition at $52.79 / £48.39
- Space Marine 2 Gold Edition at $79.19 / £70.39
- Space Marine 2 Ultra Edition at $87.99 / £79.19
We don't know when this might jump back up in price though, so if you're thinking about buying, make sure you do so sooner rather than later so you don't miss the deal.
Read our best Space Marine 2 mods will give you an idea of some of work the fan community has done to expand the experience.
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