With the explosive launch of Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2, many players are encountering a frustrating message:
“Mods Detected”
For some, this warning appears even when they’ve never intentionally installed mods. For others, it blocks access to multiplayer or co-op features entirely. If you’re confused about what this message means and whether it can get you banned, you’re not alone.
This guide breaks everything down clearly—what “mods detected” actually means, why Space Marine 2 is so strict about it, and what you can do to fix it safely.
What Does “Mods Detected” Mean in Space Marine 2?
The “Mods Detected” warning is triggered when the game’s anti-tamper or integrity system detects any modification or unexpected file change in the game directory.
Importantly, this doesn’t always mean you installed a traditional mod.
Space Marine 2 is designed with:
- Competitive multiplayer
- Cooperative PvE modes
- Progression systems tied to online play
Because of this, the developers enforce very strict file validation to prevent cheating or unfair advantages.
Common Reasons Space Marine 2 Detects Mods
1. Leftover Files From Other Games or Tools
If you’ve previously used:
- Mod managers
- ReShade
- Performance injectors
- FPS unlockers
Even inactive or leftover files can trigger the detection system.
2. ReShade, Overlays, and Injectors
Tools like:
ReShade
- Custom shaders
- Third-party overlays
are often flagged because they inject code at runtime, which looks identical to cheating software from an anti-cheat perspective.
3. Edited Config or .ini Files
Tweaking:
- Graphics settings beyond normal limits
- FOV values
- Hidden developer options
can also cause the warning, especially if values fall outside expected ranges.
4. Corrupted or Mismatched Game Files
Sometimes, the issue isn’t mods at all. It can be caused by:
- Interrupted updates
- Incomplete downloads
- File corruption
The system simply detects that files don’t match the official version.
Does “Mods Detected” Mean You’ll Be Banned?
No — not automatically.
Right now:
- The warning is mainly a restriction notice
- It usually blocks multiplayer or co-op
- It does not instantly ban accounts
However, repeatedly attempting to bypass the system or using actual gameplay-altering mods can lead to penalties in the future.
The safest approach is to return the game to a fully clean, unmodified state.
How to Fix “Mods Detected” in Space Marine 2
Step 1: Verify Game Files (Most Important)
On Steam:
- Right-click Space Marine 2
- Go to Properties
- Select Installed Files
- Click Verify integrity of game files
This removes mismatched or altered files automatically.
Step 2: Remove Third-Party Tools
Check and disable:
- ReShade
- MSI Afterburner overlays
- FPS injectors
- Any DLL files added manually
If unsure, reinstall the game cleanly.
Step 3: Check the Game Folder Manually
Look for:
- Extra
.dllfiles - Custom shader folders
- Old mod manager remnants
Anything not installed by the game itself should be removed.
Step 4: Avoid Mods Until Official Support
As of now:
- Space Marine 2 does not officially support mods
- Even harmless visual tweaks can trigger detection
Stick to vanilla gameplay if you want online access.
Will Space Marine 2 Support Mods in the Future?
This is still unclear.
Historically:
- Many Warhammer games allow single-player mods
- Multiplayer modes remain locked down
If mod support arrives, it will likely be:
- Offline-only
- Cosmetic-focused
- Strictly separated from online play
Until then, assume any mod = risk.
Is It Worth Modding Space Marine 2 Right Now?
If you play single-player only, experimenting may be tempting — but it still carries risks:
- Progression issues
- Save incompatibility
- Loss of online features
For most players, it’s best to wait for:
- Official mod tools
- Developer clarification
- Community-approved frameworks
Final Thoughts
The “Mods Detected” message in Space Marine 2 is less about punishment and more about protecting online fairness. Unfortunately, its strictness means even innocent tweaks can lock players out of features.
If you’re seeing this warning:
- Don’t panic
- Clean your install
- Avoid third-party tools
- Verify files
That alone resolves the issue for the majority of players.
