"Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 Dev Rejects Live Service Model Amid 'FOMO' Backlash"

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 against community events that were perceived as promoting "FOMO" or the fear of missing out. FOMO is a strategy commonly employed by live service games to drive quick engagement and spending on time-limited virtual items, suggesting that players will miss out permanently if they don't act immediately.

This approach has faced criticism for fostering an unhealthy dynamic between games and their communities. In 2021, research commissioned by the UK's GambleAware charity highlighted how many games use psychological tactics, including FOMO, to encourage purchases of loot boxes. While Space Marine 2 does not include loot boxes, it has introduced community events for unlocking exclusive cosmetics, sparking concerns and leading some to label it as a live service game.

In response to the community's feedback, Space Marine 2's publisher, Focus Entertainment, and developer, Saber Interactive, acknowledged the negative reception to these events. They emphasized that the items available during these events will be accessible to all players later on, clarifying that the events are meant to offer early access to dedicated players without causing frustration or stress. They also apologized for any inconvenience and are working on simplifying the process to unlock these items.

As a gesture of goodwill, Focus Entertainment is offering the Mk VIII Errant Helmet, previously part of the Imperial Vigil community event, for free to all players who link their PROS account to Space Marine 2. The event, which ends on March 3, had originally required players to win with each of six classes in Operations Mode to obtain the helmet.

The Space Marine 2 community is currently anticipating the 7.0 update, which will introduce a new weapon, a new Operations map, and PvE Prestige Ranks. Last month, Focus and Saber responded to concerns about a lack of content, detailing their plans for the game's future.

Space Marine 2 achieved a record-breaking launch last year, selling 5 million copies and becoming the fastest-selling Warhammer video game to date.