Space Marine 2 Epic Games Requirements Irk Fans

Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2's brutal PC debut has sparked unexpected controversy. The source of the ire? Epic Online Services (EOS). Let's delve into the developer's statements and the resulting backlash.

Space Marine 2's Mandatory EOS: Crossplay's Unexpected Cost

EOS: A Requirement, According to Epic

Since launch, Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 has been mired in debate. The core issue? The game's mandatory installation of Epic Online Services (EOS), even for players who don't want crossplay.

While publisher Focus Entertainment clarified on their website that linking Steam and Epic accounts isn't necessary to play, Epic Games told Eurogamer that crossplay is mandatory for multiplayer titles on their store. This policy necessitates EOS inclusion in Space Marine 2, impacting even Steam users who have no interest in cross-platform play.

An Epic Games spokesperson stated to Eurogamer, "Cross-play across all PC storefronts is a requirement of the Epic Games Store for all multiplayer games, ensuring that players and friends can play together wherever they purchase their games. Developers are free to choose any solutions that meet this requirement, including Epic Online Services, which may require a secondary installation to enable the Social Overlay (friends list, cross-platform invites, etc.) on PC."

The key point: Developers aren't forced to use EOS, but crossplay on the Epic Games Store necessitates it. For many, it's the easiest route—EOS provides pre-built solutions, and it's free.

The EOS Backlash

While some gamers embrace crossplay, many vehemently oppose EOS's mandatory installation. Concerns include perceived "spyware" and a general aversion to the Epic Games launcher.

This led to a wave of negative Steam reviews, primarily focusing on EOS's unannounced inclusion (despite it being separate from the Epic Games launcher). EOS's extensive EULA, and the confusion surrounding its data collection practices (regional variations exist), further fueled the controversy.

However, Space Marine 2 isn't alone in using EOS. Hundreds of games, including titles like Hades, Elden Ring, and Hogwarts Legacy, utilize the service. Given Epic's ownership of Unreal Engine (often integrated with EOS), this widespread adoption is understandable.

Therefore, the negative reviews should be viewed within this context: are they knee-jerk reactions, or genuine concerns about a common industry practice?

Ultimately, installing EOS is a player's choice. It's removable, but removing it means sacrificing crossplay.

Despite the criticism, Space Marine 2 remains impressive. Game8 awarded it a 92, praising it as a "near-perfect representation of what it means to be a zealous Space Marine under the Empire of Man and is an amazing sequel to the 2011 third-person shooter." For a detailed perspective, read our full review!