Adwin McCants, contributor

“Warhammer 40K,” a franchise that has been popular for decades and has acquired an even larger fandom in recent years, is no stranger to video game adaptations. There has been no shortage of “Warhammer 40K” video games, and for a good reason. The universe that has been built around the once humble board game has, taking inspiration from Frank Herbert’s “Dune” novels, over time created one of the most iconic gothic horror science fiction franchises ever made. 

At the heart of that universe is the brutal Imperium of Man and its greatest and most iconic warriors: Space Marines. It’s no surprise that after the generally liked, however flawed, original Space Marine game fans would want to see a sequel that improves on the core concept. Space Marines are the poster boys of the “Warhammer 40K” universe. Large, hulking soldiers encased in clanking high-tech armor who were genetically enhanced to be the perfect soldiers, fighting whatever battles the Imperium asks of them. It’s no wonder why so many fans want to experience the perfect video game starring them.

Thankfully for all of the fans, including me, “Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine” is an excellent third-person shooter developed by Saber Interactive and published by Focus Entertainment. Improving on the combat of the first game released in 2011 and with the best graphics that can be expected from the modern era of gaming, “Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2” proves itself as one of the best shooters this year and my personal favorite. 

Graphically speaking, “Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2” is close to quite literally opening a window into the 40K universe. The elaborate futuristic gothic architecture, the swarms of enemies, every burst of blood and dent in armor is realized with the utmost care. The mechanical designs, the way the alien Tyranids move in a swarm and the chaos of the warp — this game has it all. For a “Warhammer” fan or for someone who knows nothing about the franchise, this game shows why this universe has been so influential. The main story campaign follows up on the first game’s ending. Titus, falsely accused of succumbing to chaos, the evil energy of the “Warhammer” universe, has to prove himself worthy by working with a new team of space marines to eliminate the bug race called Tyranids from taking a vital Imperium position in the galaxy. Nothing groundbreaking, but the gameplay is the true moneymaker.

The gameplay is a mix of firing every weapon you’ve got at the hordes of enemies coming your way, parrying or dodging the attacks of larger foes, on top of making sure you don’t get overwhelmed. This game values managing large swarms of foes over taking out carefully placed dozens of foes, so don’t go in expecting your aim to be tested. Aside from a variety of guns, your other main attack is a sweeping melee sword that kills the many Tyranids that swarm you. Various grenades also help thin out the hundreds of foes you’ll face. If you like fast paced shooters like “Doom” or action games like the “Dynasty Warrior” series then this game is for you. “Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2” is a spectacle for old fans and newcomers alike and proves itself not only as a frantic fight to the finish but a showcase for why this franchise is as iconic as it is.