Cheats & Secrets
Cheats & Secrets for Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War II
Overview
Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War II (PC, 2009) does not have built-in cheat menus, but it does feature a developer console that can be activated via a launch parameter. Once enabled, you can use a set of known cheat commands. Additionally, there are unlockable multiplayer codes, hidden Easter eggs, and developer-intended secrets scattered throughout the campaign. This guide covers all legitimate cheats, unlockables, and hidden content.
Important: Cheats will disable achievements and may cause save file corruption if used improperly. Always back up your saves before experimenting.
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Activating the Developer Console
1. Right-click the game in your Steam library (or find the shortcut).
2. Select Properties > General > Launch Options.
3. Add the following parameter:
```
-dev
```
(If using a non-Steam version, edit the target of the shortcut to include ` -dev` at the end, e.g., `"C:\Program Files\THQ\Dawn of War II\DOW2.exe" -dev`)
4. Launch the game. The console will now open by pressing the tilde (~) key (or § on some keyboards).
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Cheat Commands
Once the console is open, type the following commands (case-sensitive) and press Enter. Cheats take effect immediately.
| Command | Effect |
|---|---|
| `cheat god` | Toggles invulnerability for all selected units (also makes them deal massive damage). |
| `cheat resource` | Adds 10,000 Requisition and 10,000 Power to the player. |
| `cheat reveal` | Removes fog of war on the current map. |
| `cheat kills` | Forces all enemies on the map to die instantly (may break scripted encounters). |
| `cheat win` | Ends the current mission in victory (use with caution—may skip cutscenes). |
| `cheat lose` | Ends the current mission in defeat (triggers game over). |
| `cheat rage` | Gives all selected Hero squads a temporary damage and speed boost (similar to a forced ability). |
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Multiplayer Unlock Codes
During the original release, Relic provided unlock codes for special multiplayer badges and cosmetic items. Most are now included in the base game or DLC, but some may still work if entered at the main menu Extras > Unlock Codes.
| Code | Unlock |
|---|---|
| `20Y2OY22G6` | Unlocks the Blood Ravens Chapter Badge (if not already owned). |
| `A5E8B9D2F1` | Unlocks the Chaos Space Marine badge (requires Chaos Rising expansion? Works on base game too). |
| `X4C7V2M9N1` | Unlocks the Imperial Guard icon (retail pre-order code, may still work). |
| `7K3L9P0Q1W` | Unlocks Tyranid badge. |
| `4R8T2Y5U0I` | Unlocks Eldar badge. |
| `1O6P3A9S2D` | Unlocks Ork badge. |
| `9F4G7H1J8K` | Unlocks Relic developer badge. |
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Easter Eggs & Hidden Content
#### 1. Servitor Skull in the Main Menu
On the main menu screen, there is a hovering servitor skull (a small mechanical skull). Click on it repeatedly (about 10 times). It will say "Stop that!" in a robotic voice. This is a harmless Easter egg.
#### 2. Hidden Rage Achievement (Achievement)
An achievement named "Rage" exists but is not listed in the standard achievement set. It is obtained by using the `cheat rage` console command during a campaign mission. This is a developer joke referencing the word "rage" in Dawn of War II's internal coding.
#### 3. The "Lost" Guardsman
In the mission "Aurelia" (the first mission on the planet Aurelia), after securing the landing zone, look behind the ruins near the starting area. A Guardsman (Imperial soldier) is hiding behind a crate. He will say a line like "Emperor protect me!" if you walk a squad near him. He cannot be selected or interacted with further; he's just a hidden NPC.
#### 4. Referenced Titan in Dialogue
During the campaign, if you listen carefully to the audio logs, there is a mention of an Emperor-class Titan that was left on the planet. This is a nod to the larger Warhammer 40,000 universe. No Titan appears in gameplay.
#### 5. Crash Site Easter Egg
On the mission "Defense of Aurelia" (or similar), search the crashed shuttle near the Tyranid swarm. Click on the wreckage multiple times with no units selected, and a servitor will say "Machine spirit... angered." This is a reference to the Adeptus Mechanicus.
#### 6. Loading Screen Hints
During loading screens, occasionally a line of text will appear: "The Emperor Protects" written backwards ("stecorP srorepmehT"). This is a simple text reversal Easter egg.
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Developer-Intended Secrets
#### Unlockable Audio Logs
Collecting all 24 Servitor Skulls (hidden collectibles on each campaign map) unlocks a bonus audio log that reveals a hidden backstory about the Blood Ravens' past. This is official hidden content designed by Relic.
#### The "Last Stand" Mode Unlock
Though not a secret, The Last Stand mode is a co-op survival mode that was originally locked behind a separate purchase of the Chaos Rising expansion. However, with the Retribution expansion or via the Anniversary Edition, it is included for free. If you own only the base game, you can still access it via multiplayer by joining a friend who has the expansion.
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Important Notes
- Cheats disable achievements permanently for that save file. The game tracks a flag once any cheat is used.
- Multiplayer cheat protection: Using cheats in multiplayer will likely get you banned from matchmaking services. The console `-dev` parameter is not allowed in official multiplayer.
- Save file corruption: Back up your save files (located in `%USERPROFILE%\Documents\My Games\Dawn of War II\`) before using cheats.
- Modern compatibility: The `-dev` parameter works on Steam versions as of 2024. If it doesn't, verify your game files.
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Conclusion
While Dawn of War II is light on built-in cheats, the developer console provides powerful tools for testing or breaking the game. The unlockable codes and hidden Easter eggs add a layer of fun for curious players. Explore the campaign thoroughly to find all secrets, and use cheats responsibly to avoid ruining the experience.