Space Marine 2 Breaks Rules: Bulwark Wields Thunder Hammer

The Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 developers have implemented a major weapon change purely for its visceral appeal - essentially declaring it's "what the Emperor would have wanted." Saber Interactive's latest Siege Update (Patch 8), currently on Public Test Realm for PC, expands PvE weaponry by granting Bulwark class access to the mighty Thunder Hammer.

A Brutal New Combat Option

Previously exclusive to Assault class, Thunder Hammers deliver devastating wide-arcing blows perfect for smashing Tyranids and Chaos Marines. While Bulwarks traditionally wielded Storm Shields for defensive play, players can now sacrifice their shield to experience the hammer's raw destructive power.

The patch notes openly acknowledge this breaks lore rationale - you can't swing a two-handed hammer while carrying a shield - but prioritizes player enjoyment: "We're adding this because it will be very cool."

Siege Mode Debuts

Patch 8's flagship addition is Siege Mode - an intense PvE survival experience featuring:

• Endless enemy waves across three fortress sectors
• Dynamic side objectives rewarding tactical play
• Resource collection to summon reinforcements including elite Space Marines and Dreadnoughts
• Brutal boss encounters every fifth wave

The update also teases major customization improvements arriving later, allowing players to mix Chapter Champion armor pieces across classes while maintaining lore authenticity.

Combat Refinements

Significant balance changes include:

• Difficulty adjustments for Absolute mode
• Class-specific Prestige Perk reworks
• New Bulwark finisher animations
• Combat responsiveness improvements
• Neurothrope attack pattern adjustments

Weapon tweaks focus on quality-of-life improvements rather than major rebalancing, with Bolt Pistols receiving accuracy buffs and Inferno Pistols gaining 20% increased Gun Strike damage.

Future Content

While Siege Mode headlines Patch 8, Saber confirms upcoming additions:

• New PvP game mode
• Additional Chaos enemies
• New character class
• Expanded customization system

The update maintains Space Marine 2's Year One Roadmap commitments while enhancing replayability through new challenges and gameplay options.