Do you need to play Space Marine 1 before playing Warhammer 40k: Space Marine 2?

Warhammer 40k: Space Marine 2 is one of the most anticipated games of 2024. The game is already climbing up the sales charts during pre-orders and has created massive hype within the gaming community. It serves as a sequel to the original Warhammer 40k: Space Marine, which released in 2011. The game is developed by Sabre Interactive, the team behind multiple Halo installments and other AAA titles from the past two decades.

Given that the first part is over a decade old, a lot of players may be wondering whether they need to play Space Marine 1 before trying the sequel. The answer to this question isn't a simple yes or no.

This article should make it easier for you to understand whether you need to play Space Marine 1 before playing Warhammer 40k: Space Marine 2 or not.

Note: This article contains possible spoilers for both Space Marine 1 and Space Marine 2.

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Can you play Warhammer 40k: Space Marine 2 without trying the prequel?

Spare Marine 1 is recommended, but not necessary to play (Image via Focus Entertainment)

While Warhammer 40k: Space Marine 2 technically continues the story of Captain Titus from Space Marine 1, designed in a way that is very accessible to new players. If you have not played the first game, you can still enjoy the sequel. However, playing Warhammer 40k: Space Marine 1 could highly enhance your appreciation for the lore, especially Titus' journey.

For those who are familiar with the first entry, the sequel will offer a deeper narrative. In short, if you are curious about the lore and want a better experience, it is highly recommended to try out Space Marine 1.

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The journey of Captain Titus from Space Marine 1 to Space Marine 2

Captain Titus (Image via Focus Entertainment)

As mentioned before, both parts have the same protagonist. Captain Titus is a 175-year-old warrior who has been a member of The Ultramarines Chapter for over 150 years. The Ultramarines Chapter controls the entire Ultramar sub-sector, nine star systems, and 11 worlds, instead of the single home planet like other Chapters.

In Space Marine 1, Captain Titus was the commanding officer of an Ultramarines squad that was sent to Forge World Graia. It was under that attack by the Orks, who were green-skinned humanoids spreading all over the Milky Way galaxy, possibly outnumbering every other sapien race.

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Throughout the game, Titus and his team encounter numerous epic fights against both Orks and Space Marines who were corrupted by the Chaos. In the end, Captain Titus gets arrested by the Holy Orders of the Emperor's Inquisition, a secret organization hunting down all threats to humanity. The reason for his arrest was his suspected connection with the Chaos.

Warhammer 40k: Space Marine 2 takes place nearly a decade after Captain Titus' arrest. He has now been released, but his experience has left some deep scars. Now, he joins the Ultramarines in the 42nd Millenium. Titus now carries the weight of his past while confronting enemies.

Though the protagonist remains the same, the sequel has a self-contained storyline that can be experienced by newcomers without an issue. Space Marine 2 will provide enough context to understand the unfolding events and Titus' role.

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Key plot points from Space Marine 1 you should know

War Hammer 40k: Space Marine 1 (Image via Steam)

If you directly want to jump to Warhammer 40k: Space Marine 2 and just want some quick context of the first part, here are some important plot points from Space Marine 1:

1) The setting of Space Marine 1

The primary setting of this game is Forge World Graia, which is under attack by the Orks. The planet is crucial for the Imperium's War as it has an important role in advanced weaponry. Captain Titus and his squad of Ultramarines are deployed to reinforce the Imperial Force and help regain control of the planet.

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2) Who are the Chaos?

During a mission, the Space Marines uncover something involving the Chaos. The Chaos are the enemy of all life in the universe. Nemeroth, the leader of the Chaos in Graia is the main antagonist of Space Marine 1. The Space Marines are in a battle against both Orks and Chaos forces during the end.

3) Titus' arrest

In the end, Captain Titus gets arrested by the Inquisition. His resistance to the Chaos led to suspicion against him. Titus peacefully surrenders under the condition that his fellow Ultramarines are spared, setting the stage for Warhammer 40k: Space Marine 2.