The developers and publishers of Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 have firmly stated that they are not aiming to transform the game into a "full live service" model, following a backlash from the community regarding events perceived as promoting "FOMO" (Fear Of Missing Out). FOMO is a common strategy employed by live service game developers to drive quick player engagement and spending on virtual items that are only available for a limited time. These events imply that if players miss out on acquiring the items during their availability, the opportunity will be lost forever.
This approach has often been criticized for fostering an unhealthy dynamic between a video game and its community. A 2021 study commissioned by the UK's GambleAware charity highlighted how games use "psychological nudges" to encourage purchases of loot boxes, often leveraging the fear of missing out on limited-time items or special deals. Although Space Marine 2 does not include loot boxes, the introduction of community events aimed at unlocking exclusive cosmetics has sparked controversy, leading some to label the game as a "live service" title.
In response to the criticism, Space Marine 2's publisher, Focus Entertainment, and developer, Saber Interactive, acknowledged the "cold feedback" received since the introduction of these events. They recognized that many players felt these events generated FOMO. In a reassuring statement, the companies clarified that items available during these events will be re-released for all players at a later date. Here's what they had to say:
We have noted that the Community Events have received cold feedback since we introduced them as an additional way to unlock cosmetic items. We saw that many of you mentioned FOMO generated by the events. Rest assured, we are not looking to transform Space Marine 2 into a full live service game. The items available through events WILL be available later, for everyone. We want Community Events to be a way to unlock the items in advance, for the most dedicated players, and not to be a source of frustration and stress for everyone.
However, that means we must provide a smooth experience in unlocking said items, which has not been the case so far. We deeply apologize for the trouble, and are currently working on a simplified process to unlock the items, to make the experience less constraining.
In an effort to make amends, Focus Entertainment is offering the highly sought-after emblem-less Mk VIII Errant Helmet for free to all players who link their PROS account to Space Marine 2. This helmet, part of the Imperial Vigil community event ending on March 3, was previously only obtainable by those who achieved a victory with each of the six classes in Operations Mode by the event's conclusion.
As the community anticipates the upcoming 7.0 update for Space Marine 2, which promises a new weapon, a new Operations map, and PvE Prestige Ranks, Focus and Saber have addressed the community's concerns over content scarcity and outlined their plans for future updates.
Space Marine 2 has enjoyed a record-breaking launch, selling 5 million copies and becoming the fastest-selling Warhammer video game of all time.
