From day one, Grounded 2 is already as big as the game that came before it — and it’s only getting bigger from here

by

It’s not hidden that I had a strong affection for the initial Grounded game. However, this doesn’t alter the straightforward truth that upon its release into early access, Grounded felt unfortunately sparse.

The small yet fervent team behind Obsidian Entertainment’s creation of Grounded worked diligently on their concept for more than two years, incorporating feedback from the community into its development. Even after the game was launched, it has persistently evolved through subsequent updates.

With Grounded 2 now available in early access similar to its forerunner, I found myself pondering: could we possibly be embarking on the same voyage once more?

Luckily, it’s evident that the expanding Obsidian team has applied all the lessons from their initial project to Grounded 2. Instead of being a reiteration of the first early access trial, Grounded 2 is more of a follow-up, with the sequel already having the same size on its release day as the original did when it was completed.

From humble beginnings to a massive day one launch

Initially, Grounded in early access was little more than the framework for a survival game. A careful examination would reveal the studio’s ambition hidden within, hinting at what Grounded could eventually grow into. However, it was the dedication of the studio and the enthusiasm of the community that ultimately shaped Grounded into the game it is today.

During its two-year journey in early access, I noticed Grounded accumulating an overwhelming amount of content. Simultaneously, Obsidian diligently incorporated a multitude of feedback on quality-of-life and accessibility enhancements. What truly stood out was their significant improvement in the online co-op experience through the impressive “shared worlds.

The initial game, surprisingly, ballooned into an expansive scale for being confined to just one backyard, and the sequel, Grounded 2, continues from where the original ended.

The continuous advancement of Grounded didn’t cease, not even at its release on PlayStation and Nintendo Switch. With the Fully Yoked update, it added even more content for the endgame. What started as New Game+ evolved into a comprehensive level editor with the Make It or Break It update, making Grounded, surprisingly, enormous considering it’s set within just one suburban backyard.

In a new journey awaits us with Grounded 2, yet we’re not treading on familiar paths. As I examine the game currently, it carries the same grandeur as Grounded did at its unveiling to me back in 2022.

Parks are bigger than backyards, who knew?

It was disclosed upon the announcement of Grounded 2 that the upcoming map is anticipated to span approximately three times the size of the Backyard from the original game. Upon previewing the game, my colleague discovered that even the initial version of Brookhollow Community Park will be as expansive as the first Grounded map.

Having delved into Grounded 2 myself, I must say it’s a sprawling wonderland! The map boasts various distinct biomes, each with its own unique locations and iconic landmarks. There are numerous hidden gems waiting to be unearthed as well.

Grounded 2’s map is already as big as the first game, and it also feels packed with content.

Moving away significantly from the minimalist setting of Grounded’s initial release in 2020, Backyard, the game was based on, and Obsidian Entertainment has hinted at larger and more substantial updates for Grounded 2 during its early access phase.

Apart from its scale, Grounded 2 offers an abundance of content. You’ll find thriving habitats teeming with creatures, multiple base construction possibilities, a wide selection of equipment, numerous character advancement options, distinctive loadout choices, comprehensive accessibility enhancements (including the reintroduction of Grounded’s Arachnophobia Mode), and even multiplayer shared worlds that facilitate playing alongside your friends. In fact, Minecraft might benefit from learning a thing or two from Grounded.

This sequel distinguishes itself significantly from Grounded, not only because it continues the narrative, but also by introducing novel gameplay elements such as rideable creatures called buggies.

It’s clear that Grounded 2, at this stage, primarily focuses on expanding its core gameplay mechanics and building a strong foundation rather than providing a complete narrative or endgame experience. In its early access phase, it hasn’t introduced elements like an editor for creating levels, challenging secret bosses, or a definitive conclusion to the story.

The sequel to Grounded, Game 2, appears to be lacking a significant part of its conclusion, yet this absence has only heightened my anticipation – anything could happen!

As a researcher, I must admit that my enthusiasm has been piqued! Initially, I wasn’t planning to delve deeply into Grounded 2 right away, given my preference for playing games once they’re fully complete. However, the captivating content already available in its early access stage has almost made me forget that fact.

To put it simply, although Grounded 2 has some exciting aspects, keep in mind that it’s not fully polished yet. It’s a bit buggy, so remember to save your progress frequently if you decide to play it.

The latest game, Grounded 2, can be played now across various platforms including Xbox Series X|S, Xbox PC, Steam, Xbox Cloud Gaming, and Xbox Game Pass (in its early access phase).

Read More

2025-07-29 22:40