The developer of Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 aims to make the game worth your price of admission. The long-awaited sequel to the 2011 title is finally live, and players worldwide are diving into its action. The game offers three major modes, each of which can be enjoyed with friends.

But which mode should you start with? What is the developer's intended order for experiencing these modes? If you're wondering about this, you're in the right place. The guide below outlines the three modes and explains the recommended order to play them in.

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What Game Modes Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 Offers?

Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 is a AAA game priced at just $59.99, offering three major modes. This alone makes it a good value product. The modes in question are as follows:

  • Campaign: A moderately long story mode that can be played by up to three players.
  • Operations: Six three-player co-op missions linked to the story mode, designed for replayability.
  • Eternal War: A 6v6 multiplayer mode where you and your friends face off against real opponents.

One of the best aspects of Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 is the free content it will receive during its first year. Additional Operations missions, new multiplayer modes and maps, as well as the highly anticipated Horde mode, are all planned for release, providing even more value over time.

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Which Mode Should You Play First in Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 Offers

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Some fans who aren’t interested in the story mode might be tempted to jump straight into Operations or Eternal War. However, is this possible?

At the beginning of the game, only the Campaign mode is accessible. You must progress through the Campaign to unlock both Operations and Eternal War modes. Both modes become available once you meet Chairon and Gadriel, your squadmates.

Which Mode to Play First?

The Campaign Game Mode Menu

Once you’ve reached the point where Operations and Eternal War become available, you can choose to play either mode. However, the developer recommends starting with the Campaign. Completing the Campaign first allows you to familiarize yourself with the game’s mechanics and get a general feel for the gameplay. Plus, since the Campaign can be played cooperatively, you can enjoy it with friends while waiting to unlock Operations and Eternal War.

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Which Mode to Play Second?

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After finishing the Campaign, the next step is to tackle the six Operations missions. These missions provide additional story details and are a great opportunity to level up your classes. Operations are not one-time events; you can replay them as much as you like to further upgrade your gear and abilities.

What Mode to Play Last?

The Eternal World Game Mode Menu

Once you’ve mastered the game’s mechanics and enjoyed the previous modes, it’s time to dive into the competitive world of Eternal War. This 6v6 multiplayer mode offers countless hours of fun against other players. It’s likely where you’ll spend most of your time moving forward.

This is the recommended order for experiencing the modes, though you’re free to deviate if you prefer. While you can jump straight into Operations and Eternal War after unlocking them, doing so might skip some of the intended developer experience and progression.

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Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 Tag Page Cover Art
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Third-Person Shooter
Hack and Slash
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Systems
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Top Critic Avg: 81 /100 Critics Rec: 86%
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Released
September 9, 2024
ESRB
M For Mature 17+ Due To Blood and Gore, Intense Violence
Developer(s)
Saber Interactive
Publisher(s)
Focus Entertainment
Engine
Swarm Engine
Multiplayer
Online Co-Op, Online Multiplayer
Cross-Platform Play
PC, PS5, Xbox Series X|S
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WHERE TO PLAY

DIGITAL
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Franchise
Warhammer 40K
Number of Players
1-6
Genre(s)
Third-Person Shooter, Hack and Slash