Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2: A Deep Dive Review – Steam Deck and PS5 Impressions
For years, anticipation has built for Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2. While I wasn't initially aware of the first game, my exploration of the Warhammer 40,000 universe through titles like Total War: Warhammer, Boltgun, and Rogue Trader piqued my interest. After a captivating reveal, I dove into Space Marine 2, logging approximately 22 hours across my Steam Deck and PS5, leveraging cross-progression and online play. This review is ongoing for two key reasons: comprehensive cross-platform multiplayer testing and the pending official Steam Deck support promised by Focus and Saber by year's end.
My Steam Deck experience utilized Proton GE 9-9 and Proton Experimental, while PS5 provided a 16:9 comparison. The game's brutal, visually stunning, and engaging third-person action shooter gameplay immediately captivates, even for Warhammer 40,000 newcomers. The tutorial effectively introduces combat and movement mechanics, leading to the Battle Barge hub for mission selection, cosmetic adjustments, and more.
The core gameplay loop is exceptional. Controls and weaponry feel perfectly balanced. While ranged combat is effective, the visceral melee combat truly shines. The campaign is enjoyable solo or with friends in co-op, although defense missions feel somewhat less engaging. Playing with a friend overseas, the experience evoked a sense of nostalgia, reminiscent of high-budget Xbox 360 co-op shooters. The game's addictive quality is comparable to titles like Earth Defense Force or Gundam Breaker 4.
My current Warhammer 40,000 knowledge stems primarily from Total War: Warhammer, Dawn of War, Boltgun, and Rogue Trader. Despite this, Space Marine 2 offers a refreshing and highly enjoyable co-op experience. While it's too early to declare it my favorite Warhammer 40,000 game, the Operations mode's class variety and progression keep me hooked.
The co-op experience, so far, is outstanding. A full evaluation awaits post-launch testing with random players. Visually, the PS5 version in 4K mode (on my 1440p monitor) is breathtaking. Environments are meticulously detailed, and the sheer number of enemies contributes to a sense of immersion. The character voice acting, gear, and customization options are top-notch.
The single-player photo mode offers extensive customization options, although some effects appear less refined on Steam Deck with FSR 2 and lower resolutions. The PS5 implementation is significantly superior. The audio design is exceptional, with superb voice acting and sound design. While the music is good, it doesn't stand out as memorable outside the game context.
PC Port Features:
The PC port (tested on Steam Deck) includes Epic Online Services (account linking not required), extensive graphics settings (resolution, render resolution, quality presets, upscaling options – TAA and FSR 2, v-sync, brightness, and more), and customizable controls (keyboard/mouse and controller support with PlayStation button prompts and adaptive trigger support on DualSense).
DLSS and FSR 2 are supported, with FSR 3 planned for later. 16:10 support is absent but hopefully will be added.
Steam Deck Performance:
While technically playable without configuration changes, the game pushes the Steam Deck's limits. Maintaining a stable 30fps at 1280x800 with low settings and FSR 2.0 is challenging, with frequent dips below 30fps. Dynamic upscaling aims for 30fps but still experiences frame rate drops. The game occasionally fails to exit cleanly.
Multiplayer:
Online multiplayer works flawlessly on Steam Deck, with successful co-op sessions. Further testing with random players is needed post-launch.
PS5 Features:
PS5 performance mode delivers a generally smooth experience, though dynamic resolution/upscaling is noticeable at times. Load times are fast, and PS5 Activity Cards are supported. Gyro support is currently absent.
Cross-Save Progression:
Cross-save functionality between Steam and PS5 works well, with a two-day cooldown period between syncs.
Solo Play Value:
A full assessment requires further testing with random players in online modes.
Desired Updates:
Future updates should prioritize Steam Deck performance improvements and HDR support. Haptic feedback on PS5 would also enhance the experience.
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 stunning. While not currently recommended for Steam Deck due to performance limitations, the PS5 version is highly recommended. A final score will follow post-launch multiplayer testing and patch updates.
Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 Steam Deck Review Score: TBA
