Last week, publisher Focus Entertainment revealed that the upcoming Warhammer 40k: Space Marine 2 has gone gold! This meant that the title’s development was finally completed, and it was ready to hit the shelves.
However, a playable build of Space Marine 2 has now leaked online and can be found on various piracy websites. Based on the leaked previews, many in the community are labeling the title as Game of the Year. However, that could all be jeopardized if the game fails one crucial aspect.
Space Marine 2 Must Appeal to Casual Gamers
Set around 100 after the events of the original game, Warhammer 40k: Space Marine 2 will once again challenge gamers by allowing them to take control of Titus, a member of the Ultramarines chapter of the galaxy-spanning Imperial.
The game will undoubtedly be one of the biggest releases of the year. Ever since we received early reviews, leaks, and other information, gamers have been busy speculating if it could reach the likes of Larian’s Baldur’s Gate 3 and become the Game of the Year of 2024.
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The original Space Marine game generated a cult-like following for the franchise, which had been hoping for a sequel for years at this point. However, if Saber Interactive has made a game for the fans of the franchise rather than for the wider audience, it might prove to be a huge failure.
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Let’s face the reality: modern shooters and RPGs have developed a generation of gamers who are now used to some ridiculous movement mechanics and features. Whenever we see a game deviating from such things and offering something new to the table, the reception isn’t that good.
It’s great to see that fans of the franchise are getting a sequel. However, if the game wants to reach the success levels of the titans of the franchise and leave its niche behind, it must cater to a wide audience of players and feature a few aspects we’re now used to seeing in the gaming landscape.
Sure, that would take away from the originality of the franchise, but that’s a sacrifice that’s necessary in this day and age to survive in the highly competitive gaming landscape.
Focus Entertainment Isn’t Too Happy About Space Marine 2 Leaks
There’s no doubt that leaks are one of the best ways for gamers to get early previews of highly-anticipated titles. However, they’re a nightmare for game developers as they completely halt their development and unpack certain things that were the wraps until the game’s eventual release.
After Space Marine 2‘s early builds leaked online, Focus Entertainment commented on social media, expressing disappointment over the incident and appreciating the community’s support.
— Focus Entertainment (@Focus_entmt) July 16, 2024
Leaks aren’t particularly a new thing in the gaming industry. In 2022, Rockstar’s upcoming Grand Theft Auto 6 suffered one of the most significant leaks we’ve ever witnessed, which led to various screenshots and videos on a build being spread online.
Even Nintendo couldn’t escape the wrath of leakers as physical editions of The Legend of Zelda: tears of the Kingdom were distributed early by retailers and quickly spread all over the internet for download.
In both situations, companies reported that these leaks affected everyone involved with the game. However, no matter the damage done, it won’t be ever enough to prevent future occurrences.
Do you think the next Space Marine game has what it takes to become Game of the Year? If so, let us know in the comments.
