Space Marine 2 Epic Games Requirements Irk Fans

Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2's PC release has sparked controversy due to the mandatory installation of Epic Online Services (EOS), even for Steam users not interested in crossplay.

EOS: A Crossplay Mandate

Epic Games confirmed to Eurogamer that crossplay is a requirement for multiplayer titles on their store, necessitating EOS integration, even for Steam purchases. While Focus Entertainment stated Steam/Epic account linking isn't required for single-player, Epic's policy makes EOS the only feasible option for cross-platform play on PC. Developers aren't forced to use EOS, but its free availability and integration with Unreal Engine (owned by Epic) make it a convenient choice for meeting Epic's crossplay mandate.

Player Backlash and Privacy Concerns

The mandatory EOS installation has resulted in negative Steam reviews, fueled by concerns about "spyware" and the additional software. Some players simply prefer avoiding the Epic Games launcher. The extensive EOS EULA also raised privacy concerns, particularly regarding data collection in specific regions.

However, numerous games utilize EOS, highlighting it as a common industry practice. The negative reception to Space Marine 2's EOS implementation may be a knee-jerk reaction rather than a unique issue. Players can uninstall EOS, but this disables crossplay functionality.

Critical Acclaim Despite Controversy

Despite the negative reviews, Space Marine 2 has received positive critical reception. Game8 awarded it a 92, praising its faithful representation of the Space Marine experience.

The decision to install or uninstall EOS ultimately rests with the player, weighing the benefits of crossplay against concerns about the additional software.