SteamWorld Heist II Gets Strong Reviews from Critics
Ahead of the launch of 2D tactical RPG SteamWorld Heist II later this week, the review embargo has lifted and the overall score is looking pretty impressive. Currently at a strong 82 with 87% of critics recommending the game, this seems to be an easy recommendation for any fans of the original or the series as a whole. While achieving impressive reviews, the score does fall short of the original SteamWorld Heist, which is sitting at a mighty 86. Of course, this is still set to be an indie gem but, according to some critics, the sequel has quite a few more flaws caused by its ambition.
Image by Thunderful
Above all, the most common criticism for the game is around its length. Reportedly taking twice the time of the original (which generally took about 12 hours), this is a much larger project than the smaller scale first game. Arguably, this shouldn’t be considered a bad thing but, according to critics, the new gameplay and mechanics outwear their welcome and make the game feel bloated towards the final few hours. PC Gamer were mostly very positive about the release but had the following to say regarding this criticism in their 81/100 review:
“Sharp and compelling strategy that expands on the first game with a clever new progression system, but at over twice the length it's in danger of outstaying its welcome.”
Despite this, it seems that SteamWorld Heist II Manages to achieve almost everything it sets out to be as an expansion of the original addictive formula of the original. The genre of 2D tactics remains niche but every bit as compelling as it was a decade ago. Atomix were very impressed with the game with the following write up for their 9/10 score:
“SteamWorld Heist II is everything a good sequel should be. The story offers a unique adventure, with an emphasis on the personal problems of its protagonist, and at the same time substantially expands the universe created by Thunderful, so veterans and those who have not experienced a single title in the saga can enjoy this adventure without any problem.”
Image by Thunderful
So, if you’re a fan of the charming SteamWorld series or tactical RPGs, SteamWorld Heist II looks to be worth picking up when it launches later this week on August 8th. While longer than expected, if you’re a fan of how the first SteamWorld Heist game put a unique spin on combat and story, its certain to keep you engaged right until the climax. You can pick the game up on release for all major consoles.
