SteamWorld Heist 2 Review — Full steam ahead

SteamWorld Heist 2 embarks on a new adventure, shifting from a spacefaring setting to a thrilling open-sea journey. Set in a world dominated by steam-powered robots facing the scarcity of clean water, players take on the role of Captain Leeway and his crew as they navigate the Great Sea in search of answers, treasures, and, of course, hats – lots of hats.

The game’s core missions involve turn-based tactics, requiring players to strategically position their crew to infiltrate enemy bases, gather loot, and accomplish objectives. Each turn demands careful planning to outmaneuver enemies, dodge hazards, and line up precise shots using the aimline for maximum impact. The satisfaction of watching bullets ricochet and enemies scatter adds to the overall thrill of the gameplay.

SteamWorld Heist II excels in delivering captivating gunplay, particularly with sniper shots that offer a unique sense of accomplishment. While other weapons may be more challenging to wield, each successful hit resonates with the player, enhanced by the game’s stellar sound design.

The game’s soundtrack, featuring Steam Powered Giraffe, adds to the immersive experience, especially when winding down at the tavern after a mission. The interactions with the quirky steamboats and humorous dialogues enhance the campaign’s charm, despite posing some inconvenience during XP grinding sessions.

Once refreshed and equipped with upgrades, players embark on real-time naval battles in their submarine, engaging with other ships and uncovering hidden treasures. While the open-sea exploration adds a sense of adventure, the naval combat mechanics may fall short compared to the intense gunplay of the main missions.

The introduction of a new job system enriches character progression by providing access to various skills based on equipped weapons. Players can customize their crewmates to create an ideal team for different missions, adding depth to the gameplay and keeping it engaging.

Despite the innovative job system, the game faces challenges with XP and currency rewards, leading to extensive grinding to progress. Balancing difficulty levels and maintaining the pace of the story can become cumbersome, affecting the overall enjoyment of the game.

Adjustable difficulty settings offer some relief, allowing players to tailor their gaming experience. However, finding the right balance between challenge and progress remains a delicate task.

Despite these pacing issues, SteamWorld Heist 2 offers an enjoyable campaign with hand-crafted stages that maintain a sense of uniqueness and prevent monotony. The vibrant visuals, quirky characters, and captivating world design enhance the overall gaming experience.

Conclusion

SteamWorld Heist II delivers an engaging blend of strategy and action, offering a satisfying experience for players. The turn-based combat, enriched by the new job system, provides depth and customization options, enhancing the overall gameplay. Despite some drawbacks in progression and pacing, the game shines in moments of intense and rewarding gameplay.

The game’s vibrant world, unique characters, and delightful dialogue create an inviting atmosphere for players to explore. While certain challenges may hinder the experience, the thrill of successful shots and the charm of the game world make SteamWorld Heist 2 a worthwhile adventure.