November 1st 2024.
Planet Coaster 2 is the highly anticipated sequel to the popular theme park simulator game released in 2016. The first game was a huge success, allowing developer Frontier to break free from their previous space trading sim and establish themselves as a force to be reckoned with in the simulation genre. And now, with Planet Coaster 2, they have once again raised the bar and delivered a worthy successor.
Right off the bat, Planet Coaster 2 impresses with its refined gameplay and cleverly reworked design tools. While the game still focuses on design rather than economics, it offers a plethora of options for players to create the most lavish and diverse theme parks imaginable. And despite occupying a niche in the gaming spectrum, the game manages to have a surprisingly heavyweight feel to it.
The game starts off with a whimsical and light-hearted tone, with gentle British humor sprinkled throughout the tutorial and Career mode. As the newest employee of Coaster Coast, a renowned theme park design company, players must prove their design, building, and management skills to the eccentric owner Oswald B. Thompson and his spreadsheet-loving assistant Eugene Newton.
One of the standout features of Planet Coaster 2 is the addition of water rides. While some may not find this as exciting as building roller coasters, the game makes it fun and easy with a variety of tools that allow players to create elaborate pools and flumes. Pools are rated based on their prestige, so players must also add amenities such as wave machines, sun loungers, and changing rooms to keep their guests happy.
Another area that has been greatly improved in Planet Coaster 2 is the path-building engine. This may seem like a minor aspect of the game, but it is crucial for players to be able to guide their guests around the park and to different attractions. Even when playing on a console with a gamepad, the path-building is intuitive and easy to use, with precise controls for curving and snapping to entrances and exits.
The Career mode, which felt lacking in the first game, has been given a substantial upgrade in Planet Coaster 2. Players now work for different theme park companies and take on projects that focus on specific aspects of design and building. And while the story remains light and fantastical, it serves its purpose of showcasing the player's skills in different scenarios.
For those who prefer a more free-form experience, the game offers a sandbox mode where players can let their imagination run wild with the addition of water features and an extensive collection of building materials. The well-organized menus make it easy to find everything players need to create their dream park. However, one minor issue is the inability to assign uses for buildings, which can be a bit clunky.
Players can also share their creations with the community, and Frontier has a roadmap for post-launch downloadable content, including new visual themes and story scenarios. And for the most competitive players, there is a Franchise mode where they can invite others to help build and improve their park.
Visually, Planet Coaster 2 maintains the cartoonish style of its predecessor, but it looks better than ever. The constant chatter of park visitors adds to the overall atmosphere, and the addition of water features brings a new level of excitement. While playing on a gamepad, the interface is easy to navigate and well-designed. However, there are some occasional issues with the camera when building or repairing coasters.
Overall, Planet Coaster 2 lives up to the expectations set by its predecessor and solidifies its position as the best theme park simulator on the market. With its improved gameplay, new features, and endearing charm, it is a game that will provide endless hours of tinkering and entertainment. Whether you want to relax and create something beautiful or challenge yourself with the Career mode, Planet Coaster 2 has something for everyone. It's the perfect game to unwind with after a long day and let your imagination run wild.
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