Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 developers at Saber Interactive have implemented a bold gameplay change for one simple reason - because it's utterly awesome. The latest Siege Update (Patch 8), currently on Public Test Realm for PC players, now allows Bulwark class Space Marines to wield the mighty Thunder Hammer.
Emperor-Approved Mayhem
Thunder Hammers deliver devastating wide-arc attacks perfect for crushing Tyranids and Chaos Marines, but were previously exclusive to the Assault class. The heavily-armored Bulwark, typically equipped with a massive Storm Shield, now gains access to this brutal weapon - with one logical condition: choosing the hammer means sacrificing shield capabilities.
This fundamentally alters the Bulwark's defensive playstyle, as the class loses shield-specific abilities like Shield Bash when opting for hammer carnage. Saber Interactive's patch notes candidly admit this change prioritizes fun over strict lore accuracy:
"We're adding this simply because it's incredibly cool and unfair that only one class could use Thunder Hammers. More Bulwark enhancements are coming."
Siege Mode Warfare
The update introduces a demanding new PvE Siege Mode where teams defend Imperial fortifications against endless Tyranid and Chaos waves. Strategic resource management lets players summon reinforcements - from elite Space Marines to devastating Dreadnoughts - when facing overwhelming odds.
Content and Balancing
Beyond the Thunder Hammer addition, Patch 8 includes:
- New finisher animations for Bulwark class
- Increased challenge for Absolute Difficulty mode
- Significant class perk reworks across all archetypes
- Weapon balance adjustments with more planned
- Promised upcoming customization expansion
Saber Interactive confirmed future content including a new class, PvP mode, and Chaos faction. The Year One roadmap remains active despite surprise development of Space Marine 3.
Players can access these changes now on PC PTS, with full release scheduled for June 26. The update demonstrates Saber's commitment to evolving Space Marine 2 while staying true to Warhammer 40K's over-the-top combat fantasy.
