Steamworld Heist 2
MSRP $30.00
“Steamworld Heist 2 is a strong sequel, even if it may test both your skills and patience.”
Pros
- Aquatic theme feels fresh
- Ship exploration is a fun touch
- Combat is as tactical as ever
- Deep job system
- Every bot feels distinct
Cons
- Underexplored setting
- Enemy waves are overwhelming
- A bit too unforgiving
There’s no job more complicated in the world of Steamworld Heist 2 than that of a ship captain. Managing a crew of mechanized crewmates and understanding different robo factions requires master strategists.
In this sequel, Image & Form Games turns up the heat on its turn-based action formula, bringing new challenges and gameplay twists. The aquatic adventure offers more exploration, complexity, and surprises.
A robot’s life for me
While retaining the core ideas of its predecessor, Steamworld Heist 2 stands out with its expansive world and additional layer of exploration. The game shifts from a linear path of missions in outer space to navigating a fully traversable ocean with missions, secrets, and environmental puzzling.
A sunnier sequel with a jaunty energy to it.
The game’s top-down perspective and strategic ship battles add risk-taking elements to the gameplay. Bounty points earned from missions can be spent on gear, creating a tension between exploring and equipping for combat.
The game’s cheery style and nautical theme bring a refreshing change from its darker predecessor, offering a sunnier and more energetic experience.
Although the pirate theme feels underwhelming in terms of storytelling, the gameplay mechanics shine with tactical depth and RPG elements. The job system and class customization enhance the strategic possibilities in combat scenarios.
Do your job
Steamworld Heist’s tactical formula is refined in the sequel, emphasizing squad selection, map navigation, and turn-based strategy. The new job system and class customization allow for varied strategies and effective teamwork.
Not a single member of my crew went unused.
The ability to mix and match classes and skills enhances the gameplay depth, allowing for creative combinations and synergies. The game’s focus on individual crew upgrades and tactical decisions ensures that every bot has a role to play.
While the game maintains its humor and charm with features like collecting enemy hats, it also introduces challenging scenarios and intense battles that test player skills and adaptability.
Getting overwhelmed
Despite its many improvements, Steamworld Heist 2 struggles with balancing its difficulty and pacing. The escalating challenges and relentless enemy waves can make certain missions overwhelming, leading to frustration and repetitive gameplay.
A few tactical missteps put a dent in Steamworld Heist 2‘s armor.
While the game offers strategic depth and complex gameplay mechanics, the lack of forgiveness in certain mechanics and the unforgiving difficulty curve hinder the overall experience.
Despite its flaws, Steamworld Heist 2 remains a solid sequel with innovative gameplay mechanics and engaging strategical depth. It offers a challenging experience for fans of tactical strategy games.
Steamworld Heist 2 was tested on PC and Steam Deck OLED.
