Key Takeaways
1. Main Character and Story: Players control Dorothy, a robot seeking her lost friend in a steampunk world after an earthquake, featuring puzzles and engaging narrative elements.
2. Gameplay Mechanics: The game combines 2D platforming with Metroidvania elements, allowing players to upgrade abilities and revisit areas to uncover new paths and secrets.
3. Visuals and Sound: SteamWorld Dig 2 boasts vibrant 2D graphics, a unique art style, and an atmospheric soundtrack that enhance the immersive experience.
4. Reception and Critiques: The game received high praise with an 87/100 score from GameStar, though it faced criticism for its short campaign length and limited weapon variety.
5. Pricing and Discounts: SteamWorld Dig 2 is currently available at a significant discount (91% off) until May 17, making it an attractive purchase option.
In SteamWorld Dig 2, players take on the role of Dorothy, a robot hero on a mission to locate her lost friend after a severe earthquake. Her adventure leads her deep into a steampunk-inspired world reminiscent of the Wild West, filled with puzzles, strange gadgets, and perilous enemies. The narrative primarily drives exploration, sprinkled with clever dialogue and unexpected turns. The vibrant 2D graphics and atmospheric music enhance the game’s immersive experience, making the journey even more captivating.
Gameplay and Mechanics
SteamWorld Dig 2 expands upon the classic 2D platformer framework and infuses it with Metroidvania elements. Central to the game is a thoughtfully crafted progression system where players exchange gathered resources for upgrades such as explosive projectiles, grappling hooks, and jetpacks. These enhancements not only provide Dorothy with advantages in combat but also grant access to hidden treasures, shortcuts, and optional challenges. Staying true to the genre, players will frequently revisit previous locations to discover new paths. The game is notable for its fluid gameplay, inventive platforming puzzles, and a harmonious mix of action and exploration.
Release and Reception
SteamWorld Dig 2, created by Image & Form Games, was launched in September 2017. Upon release, it received high acclaim from the German gaming publication GameStar, which praised its intelligent game design and well-balanced upgrade system. The seamless incorporation of Metroidvania elements, along with a plethora of hidden secrets, keeps the gameplay engaging from beginning to end. Regular new upgrades sustain the energy and improve the gameplay flow. Visually, the game impresses with its unique art style, captivating soundtrack, and varied environments that vividly portray its steampunk universe.
Critiques and Scores
However, despite the accolades, SteamWorld Dig 2 has some shortcomings. GameStar noted the relatively short eight-hour campaign, the lack of weapon variety, and a narrative that feels more functional than engaging. While the mouse and keyboard controls are adequate, reviewers observed that the game is much more enjoyable with a gamepad. Nevertheless, the positives clearly surpass the negatives. GameStar rated it a solid 87 out of 100. General reception has also been positive, with a Metascore of 88 and a User Score of 8.4 on Metacritic. On Steam, the feedback is even more favorable: 95% of over 4,000 players have rated the platformer positively.
Pricing and Discounts
SteamWorld Dig 2 usually retails for about $20 on Steam, but until May 17, it is offered at a remarkable 91% off – dropping the price to less than $2. For those interested in exploring the series further, the SteamWorld 1+2 Bundle is also discounted by 91%, currently available for around $2.30. As per SteamDB, while the game sees frequent discounts, this is the lowest price it has ever hit.
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