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 who don't want crossplay.
EOS: A Crossplay Mandate
Epic Games confirmed to Eurogamer that crossplay is mandatory for multiplayer games on the Epic Games Store, necessitating EOS integration. While Focus Entertainment clarified that linking Steam and Epic accounts isn't required to play, EOS remains essential for cross-platform play. This impacts Steam users who purchased the game and don't intend to use crossplay.
An Epic spokesperson stated that developers can use any solution meeting this crossplay requirement, including EOS, which facilitates the social overlay (friends list, cross-platform invites). The reality is that for many developers, EOS offers a convenient, free, and pre-built solution to fulfill Epic's mandate.
Player Backlash
The mandatory EOS installation has generated significant negative feedback on Steam. Concerns range from perceived "spyware" to a general aversion to Epic's services and its extensive EULA. The review bombing reflects this discontent, focusing on EOS rather than the game itself. This is despite EOS being separate from the Epic Games Launcher.
However, EOS is used by numerous games, including many popular titles. This widespread use, often linked to Epic's Unreal Engine, provides context to the situation. The negative reviews might be impulsive reactions to a common industry practice rather than a unique problem with Space Marine 2.
Players can uninstall EOS, but this disables crossplay functionality. Despite the negative reception regarding EOS, Space Marine 2 itself has received positive reviews, with Game8 awarding it a 92, praising its gameplay and faithfulness to the Warhammer 40,000 universe. A full review provides further detail.
