Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine - Master Crafted Edition
" Enhanced action-adventure RPG with stunning visuals and faithful gameplay but plagued by bugs and poor multiplayer "
Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine - Master Crafted Edition Review
Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine - Master Crafted Edition is a remastered version of the original 2011 game, offering improved 4K textures, updated character models, remastered audio, and a modernized control scheme. However, many players feel the graphical enhancements are minimal and not worth the full price. The game maintains the original gameplay and story, which continues to appeal to fans of the franchise. Performance varies, with some users reporting smooth gameplay on mid-to-high-end PCs, while others experience frame drops, crashes, and bugs such as black screen issues.
Multiplayer and co-op modes are criticized for being virtually dead on PC, with crossplay functionality either disabled by default or not working properly, leading to long matchmaking times or empty lobbies. The new UI and customization menus receive mixed reactions, with some finding them clunky or visually inferior to the original. Many reviewers recommend purchasing the Anniversary Edition or original game over this remaster, especially at full price, and suggest waiting for discounts. Overall, it is seen as a cash grab that lacks significant improvements beyond visual polish.
Highlights
Players praise the remastered visuals, especially the improved character models and sharper textures, which enhance the game's presentation. The remastered audio and modernized control scheme are also noted as positive updates that improve immersion. The core gameplay, faithful to the original, remains satisfying for fans who enjoy the classic third-person shooter mechanics and adrenaline-pumping combat. Some users highlight the smooth performance on decent hardware and appreciate the inclusion of all DLC content. The multiplayer modes, when functional, offer enjoyable experiences such as the Expedition horde mode.
Criticisms
Common criticisms focus on the game's high price point relative to the limited enhancements, with many labeling it a cash grab. Performance issues like frame drops, crashes, and a persistent black screen bug negatively impact playability. The new UI and customization menus are frequently described as clunky, ugly, or rushed, detracting from the experience. Multiplayer is largely dead on PC, with poor matchmaking and disabled crossplay by default, leading to frustration. Audio mixing problems and downgraded weapon sounds, especially the bolter, are also mentioned. Many players advise sticking to the Anniversary Edition or original game due to these issues.
Pros
- • Improved 4K textures and sharper character models enhance visual fidelity significantly.
- • Remastered audio provides cleaner, more immersive sound effects than the original.
- • Modernized control scheme offers a more contemporary gameplay feel.
- • Core gameplay remains faithful and satisfying for fans of the original.
- • Smooth performance on many mid-to-high-end PC systems.
- • Includes all DLC content, offering a complete package.
- • Expedition horde mode multiplayer is fun when players are available.
Cons
- • High price point is not justified by the minimal enhancements provided.
- • Persistent black screen bug forces frequent checkpoint reloads.
- • Multiplayer is virtually dead with poor matchmaking and low player counts.
- • New UI and customization menus are clunky, ugly, and less functional.
- • Crossplay is disabled by default and often does not work properly.
- • Performance issues include frame drops and crashes on various systems.
- • Weapon sounds, especially the bolter, are quieter and less satisfying.
Rating Criteria
Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine returns. Enhanced for a new generation! Enjoy quality of life & graphical improvements that take the Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine experience to the next level.