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

Fans of *Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2* are buzzing with excitement as developer Saber Interactive has empowered modders by releasing their internal editor, the Integration Studio, to the public. This move is seen as a potential game-changer, drawing parallels to the enduring success of *Skyrim* through user-generated content. Game director Dmitry Grigorenko shared this groundbreaking news on the Space Marine 2 modding Discord, calling it the "biggest milestone yet" in supporting the modding community.

The Integration Studio, which was previously used by developers for internal gameplay development, is now accessible to modders. This tool allows for comprehensive modifications, ranging from level scenarios and game modes to AI behavior, abilities, melee combo logic, and user interface elements. Grigorenko emphasized the studio's commitment to the modding scene, expressing enthusiasm for the community's future creations, be it a cinematic campaign, new game modes, or unexpected innovations.

To kickstart the modding frenzy, Grigorenko humorously shared concept art for a "Fishing With Daddy Calgar" mini-game, which is now technically feasible with the new tools. Marneus Calgar, the leader of the Ultramarines, is humorously depicted in this playful concept.

To understand the potential of this editor, I spoke with Tom, known as *Warhammer Workshop*, the modder behind the acclaimed *Astartes Overhaul* for *Space Marine 2*. Fresh from enabling 12-player co-op, Tom now has access to all scripting tools that manage mission events and game components like weapons and abilities. This opens up possibilities for innovative mods, such as a roguelite mode where players start with a combat knife and face progressively tougher enemies, with chances to gain weapons, ammo, and health.

Tom also discussed the feasibility of creating a new cinematic campaign, such as a Chaos campaign, though he noted that cutscenes are currently challenging due to limited access to animation tools. However, he is actively working on adding new factions like the Tau and Necrons, leveraging available rigs. Meanwhile, the community is eagerly working on the "Fishing With Daddy Calgar" mini-game challenge set by Grigorenko.

The reaction from *Space Marine 2* fans has been overwhelmingly positive. Despite the game's success and status as one of the best-selling Warhammer video games, it initially offered only three factions: Space Marines, Chaos, and the Tyrannids. With the modding tools now available, fans can expand the game's universe, fulfilling hopes for additional factions like the Necrons, which were teased in the campaign.

This development is particularly timely as Saber Interactive and publisher Focus Entertainment have announced *Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 3* is in development. While some fans worry about the future of *Space Marine 2* DLC, both companies have reassured that they are not abandoning the game. With modders now equipped with the editor, *Space Marine 2* is poised for a long and vibrant life, much like *Skyrim*.