Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2: A Deep Dive Review (Steam Deck & PS5)
For years, the anticipation for Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 has been palpable. While I wasn't initially aware of the first game, my journey through the Total War: Warhammer series and other 40k titles like Boltgun and Rogue Trader led me to this highly-anticipated sequel. I initially sampled the original Space Marine on my Steam Deck, piquing my interest for the sequel. This review covers my experience across both Steam Deck and PS5, leveraging cross-progression and online play.
A Work in Progress: This review is ongoing for two key reasons: thorough testing of cross-platform multiplayer and general online functionality requires more time, and official Steam Deck support is slated for release by year's end.
My experience spans approximately 22 hours across both platforms, utilizing Proton GE 9-9 and Proton Experimental on the Steam Deck. Screenshots with performance overlays are from my Steam Deck OLED, while 16:9 shots are from the PS5.
Gameplay Excellence: Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 is a thrilling third-person action shooter; brutal, visually stunning, and incredibly fun. The tutorial effectively introduces combat and movement mechanics. The Battle Barge hub serves as a central location for mission selection, game mode choices, cosmetic adjustments, and more.
Combat is superb. While ranged combat is viable, the visceral melee combat is a standout feature. The executions are satisfying, and mowing down hordes of enemies before facing tougher foes is consistently engaging. The solo and co-op campaigns are enjoyable, although defense missions feel less compelling.
Co-op Thrills (and a Blast from the Past): Playing co-op with a friend overseas felt reminiscent of classic Xbox 360 co-op shooters, a genre rarely seen with such high production values today. The addictive gameplay loop, similar to that of Earth Defense Force or Gundam Breaker 4, is truly captivating.
My 40k experience stems primarily from Total War: Warhammer, Dawn of War, Boltgun, and Rogue Trader. Despite this, Space Marine 2 offers a refreshing take on the franchise, providing one of the best co-op experiences I've had in years. While it's too early to definitively declare it my favorite 40k game, the Operations mode, class variety, and progression system have me hooked.
Online Multiplayer: A Promising Start: While full online multiplayer testing with random players awaits the official launch, my initial co-op sessions were exceptional. The cross-progression and cross-platform online functionality are highly anticipated features.
Visual Prowess: On PS5 (in 4K mode on my 1440p monitor), the game is breathtaking. The environments are incredibly detailed, and the sheer number of enemies on screen, combined with excellent texture work and lighting, creates a truly immersive experience. The voice acting and customization options further enhance the visual appeal.
The photo mode, accessible in single-player, offers extensive customization options. However, on Steam Deck, some effects appear suboptimal with FSR 2 and lower resolutions. The PS5 version's photo mode, in contrast, is exceptional.
Audio Excellence: While the music is good, it doesn't stand out as particularly memorable outside of the game context. However, the voice acting and sound design are top-tier, creating an immersive soundscape.
PC Port Features: The PC port (tested on Steam Deck) includes Epic Online Services (no Epic account linking required), extensive graphical options (resolution, upscaling, quality presets, DLSS, FSR 2, etc.), and full controller support with PlayStation button prompts (disabling Steam Input is necessary on Steam Deck). Adaptive triggers are also supported wirelessly on PC, a welcome feature.
Steam Deck Performance: While technically playable on Steam Deck without configuration changes, the game pushes the handheld's limits. Achieving a stable 30fps at 1280x800 with low settings and FSR 2.0 is challenging, with frequent dips below 30fps, even at lower resolutions. Dynamic upscaling aims for 30fps but still experiences frame drops. The game occasionally fails to exit cleanly, requiring manual closure.
Steam Deck Multiplayer: Online multiplayer functions flawlessly on Steam Deck, with successful co-op sessions experienced. Further testing with random players is needed post-launch.
PS5 Experience: Performance mode on PS5 delivers a mostly smooth experience, although dynamic resolution/upscaling causes occasional blurriness. Fast load times and PS5 Activity Card support are noteworthy. Gyro support is currently absent.
Cross-Save Progression: Cross-save functionality between Steam and PS5 works well, although a two-day cooldown period exists between syncing to different platforms.
Solo Play Value: A definitive answer on solo play value requires further testing of the full online experience.
Desired Future Updates: HDR support and haptic feedback are highly desirable additions.
Conclusion: Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 is a strong contender for Game of the Year. The gameplay is superb, and the visuals and audio are exceptional. While Steam Deck performance needs improvement, the PS5 version is highly recommended. A final score will follow comprehensive multiplayer testing and post-launch patches.
Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 Steam Deck Review Score: TBA
