Frostpunk 2 Metacritic review roundup: The critics are clear about this “ambitious sequel” to one of the best survival games out there

Frostpunk 2 Metacritic review roundup: The critics are clear about this "ambitious sequel" to one of the best survival games out there

As a seasoned gamer with over two decades of gaming under my belt, I can confidently say that Frostpunk 2 has piqued my interest like no other game in recent memory. The original Frostpunk was a masterpiece that left me gripped by its post-apocalyptic world and the challenges it presented. So, when a sequel was announced, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of anticipation that bordered on giddy excitement.


11 Bit Studios’ highly praised game Frostpunk, launched in 2018, immediately captured the attention of both critics and players due to its compelling post-apocalyptic ice age setting, strategic city-building mechanics, and deep, thoughtful storytelling. The anticipation for a sequel was palpable when it was announced in 2021, and it has only grown since then. As of now, Frostpunk 2 is the fourth most-wishlisted game on Steam, a popular PC gaming platform. With the review embargo recently lifted, critics have shared their opinions, and we’re just days away from its official launch on Xbox Series X|S, PS5, and Windows PC on September 20.

Based on the consistent positive feedback in all reviews, it seems undeniable that Frostpunk 2 is a well-received game, with many considering it exceptional. Critics particularly appreciate its expanded scope, increased emphasis on tough decisions, and engaging narrative. However, some critics have noted that the broader scale may have diminished certain aspects of the original game’s city-building mechanics. Additionally, there are mixed opinions regarding the game’s focus on political maneuvering with factions and movements. Despite these minor concerns, most agree that the essence of Frostpunk remains intact in this sequel, and it exceeds expectations set by its predecessor.

In our Frostpunk 2 review penned by Samuel Tolbert, he rated the sequel from 11 bit studios a high score of 90%, or equivalently 4.5 out of 5 stars. He commended it for expanding the boundaries of city-building games and survival experiences, seamlessly blending narratives of human hope and despair. In addition, he praised its stunning visuals and significantly larger gameplay scope compared to its predecessor, except for a few minor flaws that slightly tarnish the overall experience. His main concerns were some progression paths proving underwhelming at launch and a limited offering of accessibility options.

It’s worth mentioning that every early review of Frostpunk 2 was conducted on Windows PC. Therefore, if you’re planning to play the game on Xbox or PS5, it might be wise to hold off on your purchase until post-launch reviews for these platforms are available. The game seems to run smoothly on PC, but we can’t confirm how it will perform on consoles until they’ve been released and tested.

Frostpunk 2 Metacritic review roundup: The critics are clear about this "ambitious sequel" to one of the best survival games out there

The base price for Frostpunk 2 is set at $44.99, while the Deluxe Edition with access to post-release DLC expansions, early access gameplay for three days, an exclusive in-game item, a digital artbook and soundtrack, and a digital copy of the upcoming “Warm Flesh” Frostpunk anthology novella is priced at $74.99. If you preorder it, there’s a 10% discount that reduces the price to $67.49. However, better deals can be found on CDKeys, where the Standard Edition is available for $34.19 and the Deluxe Edition for only $52.59. Additionally, from now until September 23, the original Frostpunk game is being sold for just $2.99, and its DLC Season Pass can be purchased for $8.57.

Unfortunately, the markdowns are only available for the computer version of the game, but don’t worry Xbox users! You can still access Frostpunk 2 on its release day by subscribing to Xbox Game Pass, a flexible service offered by Microsoft. Similarly, PC gamers with a Game Pass or Game Pass Ultimate subscription can enjoy the game via the Microsoft Store in the same manner.

Frostpunk 2 is almost here, and judging by the overwhelmingly positive reviews, it seems poised to become one of the top Xbox games and PC games in 2024. The game retails for $44.99, but you can find it at a lower price with CDKeys deals or Xbox Game Pass.

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2024-09-17 22:39