What are Primaris Marines in Warhammer 40k: Space Marine 2?

If you're new to the grimdark, you might be wondering what are Primaris Marines in Warhammer 40k: Space Marine 2. Since December 9, 2021, when the game was officially teased, newcomers have spent many hours reading up on lore. As such, many would have stumbled upon the word Adeptus Astartes, more commonly referred to as Space Marines.

These are genetically modified super-soldiers, but barely human at all. Due to their harsh regime of genetic modification, psycho-conditioning, and rigorous training, they have surpassed their mortal bounds. Many Space Marines look upon humans as lesser beings; and rightfully so. Being defenders of humanity, Space Marines have earned their keep.

So Space Marines are the defenders of humanity. What are Primaris Marines in Warhammer 40k: Space Marine 2? Are they a subset of Space Marines or something else? Read on to find out.

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Primaris Marines in Warhammer 40k: Space Marine 2 are the bane of Tyranids

Onward, into the fray (Image via Focus Entertainment)

Imagine a Space Marine, armored in Ceramite plating, and bullets bounce off them like rubber balls. They are the ultimate killing machine made manifest. However, Space Marines are not invincible. They do have a breaking point and can be mortally wounded; which is where Primaris Marines pick up the slack.

They are faster, stronger, and all-round more superior to regular Adeptus Astartes or Firstborn. What they often lack in combat experience of seasoned Space Marines, is made up for by their sheer physical size.

They are generally better armed and armored than the regular Space Marine and can have specialized classes in Warhammer 40k: Space Marine 2. However, it can be said in the 41st millennium, the Mark X Power Armour has become the norm for all Chapters.

Titus (Image via Focus Entertainment)

Coming to Primaris Marines, Titus is also one of them. But what makes him special is that he has spent over 200 years in service to the Emperor; which makes him seasoned as well. Perhaps what makes him greater yet is that he was not created a Primaris Marine, but was a Firstborn.

Without spoilers or context, Titus ascended to become a Primaris Marine through procedures known as crossing the "Rubicon Primaris". In short, he's now perhaps one of the most well-known Primaris Marines in Warhammer 40k: Space Marine 2. But enough about Titus, here are a few key differences between Space Marines and Primaris Marines:

Space Marine	Primaris Marine
7ft+	8ft - 9ft+
19 implants	22 implants
Large, physically strong, and resilient	Larger, physically stronger, and more resilient
Less optimized for specialized tactical roles	Better optimized for specialized tactical roles
Standard training time	Shorter training time
Standard wargear	Improved wargear

When it comes to battling foes of the Imperium, Primaris Marines can go toe-to-toe with the most savage creatures and come out on top. Keep in mind, that they can be killed in action, which is why players have been searching for how to heal in Warhammer 40k: Space Marine 2.

However, if you proceed tactically, and know how to use the many weapons available in Warhammer 40k: Space Marine 2, you should be fine. Just remember to double-tap fallen enemies to ensure they have been reunited with whatever created them.

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Do Primaris Marines in Warhammer 40k: Space Marine 2 make Space Marines (Firstborn) obsolete?

Ultramarines are a force of nature (Image via Focus Entertainment)

If Primaris Marines in Warhammer 40k: Space Marine 2 are better than the Firstborn, what happens to them? Are they even useful? Well, as mentioned, Titus was a Firstborn. He's over 200 hundred years old and was once the former commander and captain of the Ultramarines 2nd Company.

Given his service record, while being a Firstborn, it's safe to say that regular Space Marines cannot be overlooked. As such, Primaris Marines in Warhammer 40k: Space Marine 2 might be the backbone of the Ultramarines, but their Firstborn brothers are no pushovers.

Dreadnoughts are blessed by the Machine Spirit (Image via Focus Entertainment)

However, it has to be noted that as a Chapter takes losses, Primaris Marines are typically sent to reinforce them. As such, over time, they will become the dominant archetype; even if there is a pushback against it.

Considering the horrors that lie in the Immaterium, Primarch Roboute Guilliman, will ensure that the Ultramarines are up to the task of taking on anything. In the grimdark, Tyranids are the least of concern when it comes to enemies in Warhammer 40k: Space Marine 2.

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In conclusion, you will take control of different Primaris Marines in Warhammer 40k: Space Marine 2 to carry out the will of Roboute Guilliman. Throughout the six different Campaign Missions in Space Marine 2, you will get to experience the fearfulness and fury of these superhumans firsthand.

“I am iron. I am wrath. I am doom.”

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Read more Marines in Warhammer 40k: Space Marine 2 articles here:

• Warhammer 40k: Space Marine 2 official release time across all regions
• How to get Early Access for Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2