The developer and publisher 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 to promote "FOMO" (Fear of Missing Out). FOMO is a common strategy used by live service game developers to encourage players to engage quickly and spend on limited-time virtual items, suggesting that missing the window means missing out forever.
This approach often draws criticism for fostering an unhealthy relationship between games and their player base. A 2021 study commissioned by the UK's GambleAware charity highlighted how games use psychological tactics, such as the fear of missing out on limited-time offers, to prompt purchases of loot boxes. Although Space Marine 2 does not feature loot boxes, its introduction of community events aimed at unlocking exclusive cosmetics has sparked controversy, leading some to label the game as adopting live service elements.
In response to the feedback, Space Marine 2's publisher, Focus Entertainment, and developer, Saber Interactive, acknowledged the chilly reception to these community events. They assured players that the items offered during these events would be available again later, emphasizing that the intention is not to convert the game into a full live service model. Here's their statement:
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.
To address the concerns, Focus Entertainment is 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 initially only accessible to players achieving victories with each of the six classes in Operations Mode by the deadline.
Currently, Space Marine 2 players are eagerly awaiting the 7.0 update, which promises to introduce a new weapon, a new Operations map, and PvE Prestige Ranks. Last month, Focus and Saber addressed the community's frustration over content scarcity and outlined their plans for the game's future updates.
Space Marine 2 launched to record-breaking success late last year, selling 5 million copies and becoming the fastest-selling Warhammer video game ever.
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