Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine – Master Crafted Edition has stirred up quite a bit of controversy. While the Warhammer 40,000 franchise has enjoyed success recently with titles like Space Marine 2, the re-release of the 2011 action game Space Marine has been met with frustration from players.
Released on June 10, this edition was marketed as an improved version of the original game with enhanced visuals, audio, and controls. However, it seems like the upgrade might have missed the mark.
Both Games Workshop and publisher Sega have refrained from calling this a full remaster, instead touting quality-of-life improvements. These include better textures, 4K resolution, updated character models, remastered audio, and a revamped control scheme. But players have voiced disappointment, particularly with the changes that seem to have worsened the user experience.
The game is available on Xbox Series X/S and PC, with a special addition for Game Pass subscribers. Unfortunately, the reception on Steam has been less than stellar, with the game currently holding a ‘mostly negative’ user rating. The $39.99 price tag has drawn criticism for what many view as a minimal upgrade from the Anniversary Edition.
Many players have pointed out issues with the updated interface and visual design, claiming that the changes make the game harder to enjoy. Some have expressed frustration over the lack of players in online modes like PvP multiplayer and co-op Exterminatus horde mode. There are also reports of persistent bugs, including progress resets due to save file corruption, and the absence of dedicated servers. These issues have led some to call the release a ‘cash grab,’ suggesting that Sega and Games Workshop are prioritizing profits over delivering a solid product.
It’s not all negative, though. Some players on Game Pass have found enjoyment in the game, especially newcomers to the franchise who are experiencing the story for the first time. However, for long-time fans, especially those who played the original Space Marine, the Master Crafted Edition seems like a step backward rather than an exciting new chapter.
As of now, it’s unclear when fixes will come. Players who are still interested in experiencing the game may want to wait for patches or pick it up at a discount. Despite the backlash, the franchise remains popular, and it’s clear that many are hoping for a better experience in the future.