SteamWorld Heist 2 Review: A Tactical Triumph in a Sea of Strategy Games

Developer: Thunderful
Publisher: Thunderful
Release: Out now
Platforms: Windows (Epic Games, Steam)

The Verdict: SteamWorld Heist 2 is a delightful continuation of the SteamWorld series, blending strategic depth with the charm and whimsy fans have come to expect. Thunderful has once again crafted a game that’s not just fun to play but feels like a breath of fresh air in the tactical genre.

SteamWorld Heist 2 is a testament to Thunderful's knack for reinventing genres. Whether you’re digging through the earth in SteamWorld Dig 2 or casting spells in SteamWorld Quest, each entry in the series brings a unique twist that keeps players coming back for more. Now, with SteamWorld Heist 2, Thunderful revisits the bullet-bouncing tactics of their 2016 hit SteamWorld Heist and adds a fresh layer of complexity that elevates it to new heights.

In SteamWorld Heist 2, you step into the boots of Captain Leeway, the one-armed commander of a pirate submarine navigating a watery world floating in space. Your mission? To solve a water crisis threatening the very existence of steambots. The narrative is light-hearted yet engaging, with a cast of colorful characters that are easy to root for, from the stiff-upper-lipped grenadier Wesley to the ever-enthusiastic sniper Daisy. Each character has their quirks and backstories that unfold as you progress, adding depth to the game's overall charm.

Exploring the World:

Unlike its predecessor, SteamWorld Heist 2 ditches the simple space map for a more dynamic world map filled with tropical waters and hidden treasures. You’ll sail your submarine through these waters, uncovering secrets, avoiding mines, and engaging in naval combat. The map is beautifully designed, offering a sense of exploration and discovery that keeps you hooked.

Tactical Brilliance:

Where SteamWorld Heist 2 truly shines is in its tactical combat. The game’s core mechanics revolve around turn-based battles where precision and strategy are key. Your bots’ arms sway as they aim, adding a layer of unpredictability to your shots. Some weapons come with laser guides to help, while others require you to trust your instincts. This risk-reward dynamic is a thrilling aspect of every encounter, as you’re never entirely sure how a shot will land until you pull the trigger.

Each character class brings something unique to the table, from the Flanker’s swift movements to the Reaper’s deadly precision. And just when you think you’ve mastered the system, SteamWorld Heist 2 introduces a new layer of complexity: cogs. These allow you to mix and match abilities across classes, creating hybrid characters that can adapt to any situation. It’s a brilliant system that encourages experimentation and rewards creative thinking.

Enemies and Bosses:

The enemies you face are as varied and interesting as your own crew. Navy commanders issue buffs to their allies, while the eerie Rattlers, a cult of bots who’ve replaced their metal with bones, present unique challenges. The game’s boss battles are particularly memorable, with foes like the trick-shooting Admiral and the imposing Big Steve pushing your tactical skills to the limit.

A Forgiving Challenge:

One of the standout features of SteamWorld Heist 2 is its approachability. The game is challenging, but it’s never punishing. Fail a mission, and you’ll lose some time but nothing else. This spirit of forgiveness extends to the game’s difficulty settings, which you can adjust before every mission. It’s a system that ensures the game remains fun and accessible, no matter your skill level.

The Final Verdict:

After spending 15 hours with SteamWorld Heist 2, it’s clear that Thunderful has once again struck gold. This is a game that’s as satisfying as a well-cooked meal, offering a perfect blend of challenge, charm, and contentment. It’s not just another strategy game; it’s a reminder of why we play games in the first place: to have fun. And in that regard, SteamWorld Heist 2 delivers in spades.