April 1st has come and gone, but the video game industry's flair for April Fool's Day pranks lingers, especially the memorable jest from the team behind Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2. On April 1, the game's publisher, Focus Entertainment, announced a faux DLC featuring a new Chaplain class, supposedly available for release on that very day.
"In story mode, swap out Titus for The Chaplain and experience the game as a true Codex-compliant Ultramarine," Focus Entertainment cheekily declared, hinting at the humor behind their screens. This 'DLC' was said to introduce the Chaplain as a playable character in the story mode, complete with an 'Enhanced Dialogue System.' Every five minutes, the Chaplain would remind his comrades that "the Codex Astartes does not support this action," and "I’m telling the Inquisition."
Adding to the jest, the Chaplain's special ability, 'Discipline,' would supposedly report any minor deviations from the Codex Astartes, offering a 5% discipline bonus but a -20% brotherhood bonus. This playful addition resonates deeply within the Space Marine community, where Chaplain Quintus is already a meme for his vigilant oversight of protagonist Titus during the campaign against the Tyranids and the Thousand Sons traitor legion. Quintus' suspicion of Titus' unique abilities paints him as the ever-watchful school prefect, quick to report any hint of deviance.
The April Fool's gag has sparked discussions among fans, many of whom expressed a genuine interest in seeing the Chaplain class added to the game. Fans like ResidentDrama9739 on the Space Marine subreddit voiced their enthusiasm, suggesting that a warrior-priest class focused on venerating the Emperor could be a thrilling addition.
While the Chaplain's mock inclusion in Space Marine 2 stirred excitement, the game is set to introduce a new class soon. Though not yet revealed by Focus and developer Saber Interactive, speculation leans towards an Apothecary, akin to a medic, or perhaps a Librarian with warp-powered abilities. The Chaplain's spotlight in the April Fool's prank hasn't ruled him out as a potential future addition.
Despite the unexpected announcement of Space Marine 3's development, Space Marine 2 remains active with its year one roadmap. Patch 7 is scheduled for mid-April, and players can look forward to new PvE operations and melee weapons alongside the new class in the coming months.
