"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 backlash from the community regarding events perceived as promoting "FOMO," or the fear of missing out. FOMO is a strategy commonly employed by live service games to spur quick player engagement and expenditure on time-limited virtual items, suggesting that missing the current opportunity means losing it forever.

This approach has been criticized for fostering an unhealthy dynamic between games and their player base. Research from 2021, supported by the UK's GambleAware charity, highlighted that many games utilize "psychological nudges," such as the fear of missing out on limited-time items or special deals, to encourage purchases of loot boxes. Although Space Marine 2 does not feature loot boxes, it introduced community events aimed at unlocking exclusive cosmetics, which sparked the recent backlash and led to the game being labeled as a "live service" by some.

In response to the criticism, Space Marine 2's publisher, Focus Entertainment, and developer, Saber Interactive, acknowledged the negative reception to these events. They admitted that the community felt the events generated FOMO. However, they assured players that items available through these events would be re-released later for everyone. The statement emphasized their intention for community events to serve as an early unlock opportunity for dedicated players, not as a source of frustration or stress.

To address the issues raised, Focus Entertainment is now offering the coveted emblem-less Mk VIII Errant Helmet for free to all players who link their PROS account to Space Marine 2. This helmet was part of the Imperial Vigil community event, which ends on March 3 and was previously only accessible to players who achieved a victory with each of the six classes in Operations Mode by that date.

Players are currently anticipating the game's 7.0 update, which promises to introduce a new weapon, a new Operations map, and PvE Prestige Ranks. Last month, Focus and Saber responded to concerns about content scarcity and outlined upcoming developments for Space Marine 2.

The game, which launched to record-breaking sales late last year, has sold 5 million copies and has become the fastest-selling Warhammer video game ever.