Introduction
The long-awaited Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 is finally arriving soon, and the fans are eager to dive into its gory, action-crazed combat. The most asked question by the players is: Is Space Marine 2 crossplay supported?
Crossplay has been a major element of gaming these days, and friends can now play together regardless of whether they are on PlayStation, Xbox, or PC. Unfortunately, the answer isn’t what everyone wanted to hear—Space Marine 2 will not include crossplay at launch.
But why is that the case? Will it ever be added? And how does this affect multiplayer and co-op gameplay? In this deep dive, we’ll explore everything confirmed so far, what the developers have said, and whether crossplay could arrive in the future.
What Is Crossplay, and Why Does It Matter?
Crossplay (or cross-platform play) enables players across different systems to play together. For example, a PlayStation 5 player can join a game with a player on Xbox Series X or PC. This is especially important for multiplayer games because it keeps the community intact and accelerates matchmaking.
The majority of new games seem to support crossplay, like Call of Duty, Fortnite, and Helldivers 2, which makes it easier to squaddy up with friends. Space Marine 2 will not be getting this feature at launch, though.
Why Is Space Marine 2 Not Launching with Crossplay?
Saber Interactive and Focus Entertainment have clearly said that the game will not be launching with crossplay. There are a few reasons that could be behind this:
1. Technical Challenges
Implementing crossplay is not simple. Developers need to ensure that:
The game is smooth on every platform.
No platform is favored (e.g., PC keyboard & mouse players vs. console controller players).
Matchmaking servers can support players from other ecosystems.
Since Space Marine 2 features fast melee combat and shooting, balancing crossplay could be difficult.
2. Prioritizing Stability at Launch
Most games experience server issues on the day of release. By prioritizing same-platform multiplayer first, the developers can ensure a smooth launch. Adding crossplay later is typically easier than fixing a failed launch.
3. Potential Future Updates
While crossplay is not in the cards, the developers haven’t ruled it out as a possibility. If there is enough demand, they could include it in a post-launch update.
How Does No Crossplay Affect Multiplayer Modes?
Space Marine 2 boasts two major multiplayer components:
3-player PvE Co-op (Operations Mode) – Fight against Tyranid hordes AI-controlling enemies alongside friends.
6v6 PvP (Eternal War Mode) – Competitive PvP action as Space Marines fight Chaos Marines.
Not having crossplay, matchmaking shall be restricted within the same platform:
PS5 players are allowed to play against other PS5 players.
Xbox Series X|S is capped at Xbox matchmaking.
PC (Steam & Epic Games Store) players will be matched up only against other PC players.
This can mean that there’s a smaller number of players on less popular platforms, which leads to matchmaking slowing down over time.
Will Space Marine 2 Support Crossplay in the Future?
Nothing is certain, but there is always hope. Crossplay has been added to games post-launch many times, such as:
Minecraft (added crossplay years after)
Destiny 2 (added crossplay in 2021)
GTA Online (added support in 2022)
If the players pressure them hard enough, Saber Interactive may include crossplay in a future update. Some of the ways the players can influence the decision are:
Requesting crossplay on official forums & social media.
Conducting player feedback surveys.
Registering strong demand through heavy multiplayer play.
What Are Players Saying About No Crossplay?
The response has been mixed:
Angry players – Many wanted to play with friends across systems.
Understanding fans – Some prefer a spruced-up release prior to rushed features.
Hopeful followers – They believe that crossplay can still be implemented in the future.
Reddit and Discord forums suggest that the fans are sure to be disappointed but remain excited for the game. Some have started petitions seeking support for crossplay after release.
How to Play with Friends Without Crossplay
As you cannot join forces across platforms at launch, here are some alternatives:
1. Find Teammates on Your Platform
Join Space Marine 2 Facebook groups or Discord servers.
Use PlayStation/Xbox LFG (Looking for Group) features.
Browse subreddits like r/SpaceMarine2 for squad recruitment.
2. Leverage Cross-Gen Play (If Available)
While full crossplay isn’t promised, some games do support:
PS5 & PS4 players in groups.
Xbox Series X|S & Xbox One players playing together.
We will need official confirmation on whether this applies to Space Marine 2.
3. Wait for Potential Future Updates
If crossplay does ultimately get added later, you’ll be able to play with friends on any platform eventually. In the meantime, same-platform teams are the only option.
Would Cross-Progression be a Different Option?
Another feature players want is cross-progression, which enables you to transfer progress between platforms. For example, if you play on Xbox and then transition over to PC, your unlocks and levels are carried over.
Officially, there has been no word, but if cross-progression is added later with Space Marine 2, then that would lessen the blow of no crossplay.
Final Verdict: Wait for Crossplay or Not?
If friend multiplayer from other systems is an absolute necessity, then waiting might be a good bet. But if same-system multiplayer isn’t a huge issue, Space Marine 2 will otherwise provide a tremendous experience.
The lack of Space Marine 2 crossplay on release is frustrating but not a deal-breaker. The game’s speedy combat, rich history, and co-op will keep players’ eyes glued to the screen—short of cross-platform play.
Conclusion: Will Space Marine 2 Ever Get Crossplay?
Space Marine 2 currently has no crossplay, and no solid plan for implementing it exists. That being said, the gaming world has observed that player pressure can grow into post-launch updates.
If the people outcry, Saber Interactive may reevaluate. Otherwise, get ready to fight for the people as a player on your own system—the Emperor’s armies need as many battle-tested Marines as possible!
