Fans of *Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2* are buzzing with excitement after the game's developers, Saber Interactive, handed modders access to their internal editor, sparking hopes that the game could enjoy a long lifespan similar to *Skyrim* through user-generated content. Game director Dmitry Grigorenko shared the news on the Space Marine 2 modding Discord, calling it "our biggest milestone yet in supporting the modding community."
Saber Interactive has released the official Integration Studio for public use, which is the same toolset used internally by the developers for all gameplay development. This initial release empowers modders to work on everything from level scenarios and game modes to AI behavior, abilities, melee combos, user interface, and HUD elements, making modding for Space Marine 2 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 a humorous concept art for a "Fishing With Daddy Calgar" mini-game, featuring Marneus Calgar, the leader of the Ultramarines chapter of Space Marines. This playful idea is now technically feasible with the new tools.
To understand what the modding community plans to do with this powerful editor, I spoke with Tom, known as *Warhammer Workshop*, the modder behind *Space Marine 2’s excellent Astartes Overhaul*. Fresh off releasing a mod that enables 12-player co-op in Space Marine 2, Tom now has access to all the scripting tools that control mission dynamics and various game components like weapons and abilities.
With these tools, modders can create innovative modes, such as a Space Marine 2 roguelite mode where players start with just a combat knife and face increasingly tough enemies, with chances to gain weapons, ammo, and health upon defeating foes. Tom suggested that killing a Carnifex might reward players with a Heavy Bolter.
While a new cinematic campaign, such as one focused on the Chaos faction, is within reach, creating cutscenes remains challenging due to the lack of access to animation tools. However, Tom is already working on adding new factions like the Tau and Necrons, utilizing available rigs. Meanwhile, the community is eagerly working on the "Fishing With Daddy Calgar" mini-game mod, spurred on by Grigorenko's challenge.
The reaction from Space Marine 2 fans has been overwhelmingly positive. While the game has been well-received and ranks among the best-selling Warhammer video games, it offers only three factions: Space Marines, Chaos (including Chaos Marines and Tzeentch Daemons), and the Tyranids. Although players had hoped for DLC to expand the faction roster, especially after the campaign teased the Necrons, they can now take the reins themselves.
"This is how you keep a game alive for years like Skyrim," remarked redditor Mortwight, highlighting the potential longevity of Space Marine 2 with mod support.
This development is particularly notable given Saber and publisher Focus Entertainment's announcement of *Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 3* being in development. Some fans expressed concerns about the future of DLC for Space Marine 2, but both Saber and Focus have reassured players that they are not abandoning the game. With modders now wielding the editor, Space Marine 2 is poised for an extended and vibrant future.
