Relic has released a new developer diary for Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine explaining the game’s in-depth combat system and what makes it unique.

“The whole basis of achieving this combat system is the animation engine,” said Relic’s James McDermott. “It’s the ability to transition between two animations and make them blend seamlessly.”

According to Space Marine’s gameplay lead Jamie Mactaggart, the combat system is very versatile in the ability to switch from ranged combat to melee on the fly.

“You take a look at the Space Marine and he’s huge, he’s big, powerful, but not limited to one form of combat over another,” said Mactaggart. “He’s a master of all combat.”

Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine is set to release September 6 on PS3, PC and Xbox 360. New screenshots can be found here, video below.