Space Marine 2 Success Inspires Another Warhammer 40,000 Game to Abandon Loot Boxes, Embrace Skill Based Leveling

Recently launched, Space Marine 2 has captured players’ attention with its chaotic yet engaging combat and various classes, and weapons to master. The game also follows the deep and rich lore of Warhammer 40K, giving its campaign the depth and immersion it certainly deserves. The game surprised the fans with its zero microtransactions and loot boxes approach, showing other games how it can be done.

It seems like one of the other Warhammer 40K-based games also got inspired by this approach: Warhammer 40K Darktide. This game is now releasing its latest update on September 26th called Unlocked and Loaded, which will offer players a complete overhaul of its itemization. Now, players can unlock and master their favorite weapon at any time, alongside new blessings and perks, essentially turning into skill-based leveling, just like Space Marine 2.

Space Marine 2‘s Success Influencing Positive Change

With players growing wary of the recent trend in the gaming industry normalizing microtransactions and loot boxes, the launch of Space Marine 2 with no such elements was a welcome surprise for many. It looks like the developer of Warhammer 40K Darktide is also recognizing this trend and trying to embrace a skill-based leveling approach that allows players to master their weapons and gear over time.

Not only is Darktide‘s latest update, Unlocked and Loaded, a free update, but it also brings a complete overhaul of itemization. The new Mastery system encourages players to explore their potential by mastering new weapon families, which in turn unlock new blessings, weapon marks, and perks through dedicated gameplay.

No transactions are needed, players simply need to pick their favorite weapon from the bunch and wreak havoc on the heretics to level them up.

The update also brings in a new power menu, which essentially allows players to pick their favorite perks and blessings for their selected weapon. By providing this much freedom, the developers are encouraging players to follow their hearts and create their own gameplay playstyle (loadouts), allowing them to personalize their experience.

To complement the new weapon family and power system, the update is also introducing an adrenaline-pumping and time-sensitive new mission that puts players on the front lines against heretics to protect Tertium from an impending disaster. Players are excited and preparing themselves to enjoy the update on September 26th.

A Positive Shift Toward Player-Centric Design

The decision to move away from loot boxes reflects a change toward player-centric design. As Space Marine 2 sets the bar high with its player-friendly mechanics, other titles within the Warhammer 40K universe are also following suit.

By focusing on skill-based progression, developers are not only responding to the player’s feedback but also rebuilding the gameplay experience in a way that builds loyalty and enjoyment. This approach not only enhances their engagement but also generates a sense of accomplishment as they will see visible results from their hard work and efforts.

To become more transparent and open with its community, Darktide‘s developers, Fatshark, have also promised more insights with future dev blogs, providing a deeper look into how players can shape their characters in ways that reflect their play styles.

As the community prepares for the update on September 26th, they are also very excited to see the developer’s renewed focus on player empowerment, enhanced social interactions (with the new Group Finder feature), and fast-paced gameplay, all promising to elevate the gameplay experience for both veterans and newcomers alike.

What is your favorite weapon in Darktide? Tell us in the comment section below.