*SteamWorld Heist II* made its debut somewhat quietly in early August of the previous year.
Unlike other prominent titles within the well-crafted robotic universe it inhabits, this tactical RPG has flown under the radar—an oversight considering the strength of its gameplay mechanics.
Despite a few distractions along the way, this sequel excels with a solid foundation that draws players in.
From Sci-Fi to High-Seas Adventure
Building on the legacy of Image & Form’s 2015 title for the 3DS, *SteamWorld Heist II* shifts the narrative from a sci-fi setting to a thrilling high-seas adventure, conjuring memories of *Pirates of the Caribbean*.
Yet, at its core, the game remains anchored in its turn-based combat, beautifully set against dynamic 2D side-scrolling backdrops where bullets bounce off surfaces and grenades blow away obstacles, crafting unforgettable and chaotic scenarios.
As players navigate procedurally generated environments in search of treasure, they must also dodge enemy fire.
However, *SteamWorld Heist II* introduces a bold concept: it abandons the rigid character classes of its predecessor.
Now, players can equip any weapon with any character, allowing for a greater degree of customization in skills and tactics.
For example, a character armed with a sniper rifle can become a sharpshooter, excelling in long-range attacks.
Switch things up with a hammer, and that same character turns into a brawler, gaining bonuses and additional actions for melee combat.
Enhancing Tactical Flexibility
Furthermore, the game encourages players to mix and match skills from different classes once they unlock abilities, fostering a spirit of experimentation and creativity.
This flexible system contrasts sharply with the traditional job mechanics found in titles like *Final Fantasy Tactics*, which tightly link skill trees to specific character classes.
The result is an invigorating experience that retains depth while offering a streamlined approach.
After finishing the game last summer on the Nintendo Switch (though it’s also available on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC), I found joy in the strategic aspects of the gameplay—analyzing trajectories of bullets, blast zones, and maneuvering tactical retreats for my team.
Although the procedurally generated maps can overwhelm players who grow complacent, *SteamWorld Heist II* rewards with high-stakes moments and compelling strategies, enhancing the successes of its predecessor into an even more captivating package.
Balancing Length with Gameplay
However, one notable downside is the extended playtime.
The sequel nearly doubles the original game’s succinct 12-hour adventure.
These added hours often involve time-consuming late-game grinding and a new submarine exploration mechanic that thrusts players into real-time battles against enemy ships.
While both aspects are masterfully designed and entertaining, they sometimes detract from the tactical combat that truly defines the experience.
To sum it up, *SteamWorld Heist II* feels akin to enjoying a peanut butter and jelly sandwich with an extra slice of bread—delicious but a bit overwhelming when consumed in excess.
Nonetheless, the enthralling 2D combat reminiscent of *XCOM* makes it a worthwhile experience despite the more tedious filler content.
For fans of tactical RPGs, ignoring *SteamWorld Heist II* would be a missed opportunity.
Source: Kotaku