ESRB Listing Points to Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine - Master Crafted Edition for PS5 and Nintendo Switch 2
ESRB Listing Hints at New Platform Release for Space Marine - Master Crafted Edition
The ESRB has reportedly listed Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine - Master Crafted Edition for PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch 2. This potential expansion follows its initial release in June last year on PC, Xbox Series X|S, and directly into Xbox Game Pass. While the consoles were briefly included in the ESRB listing alongside PC, mentions of PS5 and Switch 2 have since been removed [1].
Sega, which holds the rights to the original Relic Entertainment-developed third-person shooter, is behind this release. The original Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine was published by THQ in 2011 for PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, and PC [1].
What is the Master Crafted Edition?
Developed by SneakyBox, the Master Crafted Edition boasts several enhancements over the original. These include 4K resolution, modernized controls, an interface overhaul, improved character models, and remastered audio. Notably, the game features over 100 new voice lines for the Orks [1].
Fan Reception and Sega's Response
Despite the technical improvements, the Master Crafted Edition faced significant criticism from fans upon its launch last summer, particularly from Steam players. Complaints primarily centered on the game's high price point relative to the changes it offered compared to the well-received Anniversary Edition. Additionally, many players found some of the changes to result in worse usability. Coupled with difficulties in finding online matches, these issues led some to label the game as a "cash grab" [1].
In response to the backlash, Sega implemented several measures: an extended refund policy on Steam, a 50% upgrade path discount for owners of the Anniversary Edition, and a commitment to a patch roadmap. At launch, Steam user reviews were categorized as 'Mostly Negative,' though they have since improved to 'Mixed' a year later [1]. Updates for the game, however, ceased in September last year.
Future Prospects and Franchise Success
The potential arrival of Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine - Master Crafted Edition on new platforms raises hopes for a significant new patch addressing lingering issues [1]. The Space Marine franchise has recently seen immense success with its sequel, Space Marine 2, which launched in 2024 to critical acclaim. Following its performance, Space Marine 3 has already been confirmed to be in development [1].
