Tyranid hordes may travel as one cohesive whole, but on breaking up, the AI director turns them into separate units that seek you out.

The long-awaited sequel to Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine is out in roughly two weeks and looks great. Some new gameplay dropped during the Xbox @ Gamescom 2024 livestream, with Saber Interactive CEO Tim Willits discussing how the team’s new AI director works.

As the Space Marines cut through Tyranid hordes on Avarax, they’ll encounter massive architecture. This results in different intense situations, like fighting an uphill battle against hundreds of foes. Your allies will also warn you about specific enemy types on the field.

Willits noted how Tyranid hordes break up and turn into standalone foes, with the AI director governing their tactics, which change depending on the state of the battle and your allies’ status. It can even result in more advanced units appearing, making objectives – like protecting the chains of a giant elevator from flying Tyranids – more challenging.

Willits also confirmed that cross-play is supported, though further details are pending. Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 launches on September 9th for Xbox Series X/S, PS5, and PC.