The Warhammer 40k Space Marine 2 is set nearly 200 years after its predecessor, diving deep into one of the most dangerous and ever-evolving universes in gaming.
Titus, the Ultramarine hero, returns to face new foes, bolstered by significant lore and history.
Whether you’re a veteran of the original or new to the series, this guide is essential to understanding the key events that shaped Space Marine 2’s story.
From the fall of Cadia to the resurgence of Roboute Guilliman and the Tyranid invasion, here’s everything you need to know before embarking on your next space marine mission.
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The Timeline and Setting of Warhammer 40k Space Marine 2
Space Marine 2 takes place nearly 200 years after the original game, and a lot has changed in both the galaxy and our hero, Lieutenant Titus. Set during the 4th Tyrannic War in the Era Indomitus, placing Titus right in one of the most significant conflicts in the Warhammer 40k timeline.
One notable connection between the two Space Marine games is the 2023 shooter Warhammer 40,000 Boltgun. In this game, we witness events that directly tie back to the power source from Space Marine 1.
Malam Kado, another Ultramarine, fights to retrieve fragments of this power source, which had massive repercussions in the original title. Boltgun is a critical stepping stone between the two Space Marine games, giving us hints about Titus’ mysterious absence.
Cadia: The Fall of a Fortress World
One of the most critical events in recent Warhammer 40k lore is the fall of Cadia, an important fortress world of the Imperium. Cadia was a bulwark against the forces of Chaos, preventing their incursions from the Eye of Terror.
However, this all changed during the 13th Black Crusade led by Abaddon the Despoiler. Despite intense resistance from both Chaos and Imperium forces, Cadia was destroyed when Abaddon launched a Blackstone Fortress into the planet.
The destruction of Cadia has had lasting consequences throughout the galaxy, including its role in Space Marine 2. The surviving Cadian forces will form a major part of your human allies in the game, helping you fight against the Tyranid hordes.
Roboute Guilliman’s Return
If you’re an Ultramarines fan, you’ll be excited to know that Roboute Guilliman, the Primarch of the Ultramarines, has returned.
Primarchs are genetically engineered super-leaders created by the Emperor of Mankind, and Guilliman is one of the most significant figures.
After being wounded during the Horus Heresy, he was placed in stasis for over 10,000 years but was revived following the fall of Cadia.
Guilliman now leads the Imperium as the Lord Commander, and his influence is deeply felt throughout Space Marine 2.
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Lieutenant Titus: From Captain to Death Watch and Back Again
The story of Titus is one of mystery, redemption, and transformation. After the events of Space Marine 1, Titus was imprisoned by the Inquisition due to his resistance to the warp.
Nearly 200 years have passed, during which Titus has been through hell. Initially kept in stasis and interrogated, he was eventually freed and chose to join the Death Watch as a Black Shield.
The Death Watch is a unique chapter focused on eliminating alien threats, with its warriors drawn from various Space Marine chapters.
After serving with distinction, Titus’ fate changed again when he crossed paths with the Ultramarines, leading to his transformation into a Primaris Marine.
This marks a significant evolution for Titus, as Primaris Marines are bigger, stronger, and better equipped than the original Firstborn Marines.
Primaris Marines and Their New Arsenal
In Space Marine 2, you’ll notice that Titus and the other Ultramarines are sporting new Primaris gear. This includes upgraded Bolt Rifles, the new standard-issue weapon for Primaris Marines, as well as advanced Mark 10 Tacticus Armor.
These weapons and armors are more powerful and efficient, designed for the next generation of Space Marines. The transition to Primaris Marines wasn’t just a lore update; it also means you’ll have access to more potent weapons and gadgets.
Expect to wield everything from the improved Bolt Rifle to new power armor variants, making every battle against the forces of Chaos and the Tyranid hordes even more intense.
Enemies in Space Marine 2: Tyranids and Thousand Sons
Now let’s talk about the enemies you’ll be facing. The two main antagonistic forces in Space Marine 2 are the Tyranids and the Thousand Sons.
- Tyranids: Known as the Great Devourer, Tyranids are a terrifying alien race focused on consuming all organic matter. They operate under a hive mind, and the specific group in Space Marine 2 is from Hive Fleet Leviathan, which plays a significant role in the 4th Tyrannic War. You’ll fight everything from smaller Hormagaunts to giant Carnifexes, with tactics revolving around disrupting the hive mind by taking down their larger synaptic creatures.
- Thousand Sons: A traitorous Space Marine Legion, the Thousand Sons are now dedicated to the Chaos God Tzeentch. They’re famous for their sorcerous abilities, and many of their warriors have been turned into Rubric Marines, who are essentially sentient suits of armor infused with warp magic. Expect plenty of spell-slinging, demon summoning, and challenges against these formidable foes.
Conclusion
Warhammer 40k Space Marine 2 is set to be an action-packed sequel, filled with rich lore and intense battles. With the return of Lieutenant Titus, the rise of the Tyranids, and the looming threat of the Thousand Sons, the stakes couldn’t be higher.
Understanding the background of these key events will not only enhance your experience but also give you the tactical edge you need to succeed in battle.
Whether you’re a veteran of the original game or new to the franchise, this guide has armed you with everything you need to conquer the galaxy in Space Marine 2.
Grab your Bolt Rifle, and get ready to dive into the Grimdark future of Warhammer 40k!
