Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 Dev Opens Game Up to Modders, Who Now Plan to Add Tau and Necrons and a Whole Lot More — but first... a Fishing Mini-Game?!

Fans of *Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2* are buzzing with excitement following a groundbreaking move by the game's developer, Saber Interactive. They've opened up their internal editor, dubbed the Integration Studio, to the modding community. This bold step is seen as a potential game-changer, with hopes high that *Space Marine 2* could enjoy a long-lasting life similar to the iconic *Skyrim*, thanks to user-generated content.

Dmitry Grigorenko, the game director, took to the Space Marine 2 modding Discord to share this exciting news, labeling it as "our biggest milestone yet in supporting the modding community." The Integration Studio, previously used by developers for all aspects of gameplay development, is now available for public use. This powerful tool allows modders to delve into level scenarios, game modes, AI behavior, abilities, melee combos, user interface, and HUD elements, making modding work more accessible and efficient.

Grigorenko reiterated his commitment to the modding scene, stating, "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 with a bit of fun, Grigorenko shared concept art for a humorous "Fishing With Daddy Calgar" mini-game, showcasing the potential of the new tools. Marneus Calgar, the leader of the Ultramarines, is now poised to become the star of a fishing adventure.

To understand the aspirations of the modding community, I spoke with Tom, also known as Warhammer Workshop, the creative mind behind the acclaimed *Astartes Overhaul* mod. Fresh from enabling 12-player co-op in *Space Marine 2*, Tom now has access to the full suite of scripting tools that govern mission dynamics and various game components like weapons and abilities.

With these tools at their disposal, modders can dream up innovative modes like a roguelite experience where players start with just a combat knife and face increasingly challenging enemies, with chances to gain weapons and health upon defeating foes. "Killing a Carnifex might grant you a Heavy Bolter," Tom suggested, highlighting the exciting possibilities.

While a new cinematic campaign, such as one focusing on Chaos, is within reach, Tom noted that creating cutscenes remains a challenge due to limited access to animation tools. Nonetheless, he's ambitiously planning to introduce new factions like the Tau and Necrons, utilizing available character rigs.

Meanwhile, the community is eagerly working on the "Fishing With Daddy Calgar" mini-game, spurred on by Grigorenko's playful challenge.

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, its official content is limited to three factions: Space Marines, Chaos, and the Tyrannids. The modding tools now offer fans the chance to expand the game's universe, potentially introducing factions like the Necrons, as hinted in the original campaign.

Redditor Mortwight captured the community's sentiment perfectly, stating, "This is how you keep a game alive for years like Skyrim."

This development comes at an interesting time, as Saber Interactive and publisher Focus Entertainment have announced that *Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 3* is in the works. While some fans worry about the future of *Space Marine 2* DLC, both companies have assured that they are not abandoning the game. With the modding community now empowered, *Space Marine 2* is set to thrive for years to come.