Grounded 2 Wobbles Between Frustration and Brilliance

Survival Play Gets Tiny Again

The sequel returns players to the backyard—or rather, a sprawling suburban park—where everyone is miniature and the insects loom large. The sense of wonder remains powerful, with creatures and terrain that feel simultaneously charming and menacing.

Streamlined Tools and Smarter Combat

This time around, you wield an all-in-one Omni-Tool instead of juggling separate implements like axes or shovels. It adapts as needed—one moment a blade, the next a digger—which smooths resource gathering significantly. Fighting also sees improvements: dodging and blocking feel responsive and rewarding, contributing to satisfying encounters.

Bug Mounts Change the Game

Perhaps the biggest leap is the introduction of rideable bugs—like ant or spider mounts—which redefine traversal and logistics. These buggies let you move faster, gather more efficiently, and even join in battles. They make the expansive park feel more navigable and less daunting.

Stunning, But Still Rough Around the Edges

Powered by Unreal Engine 5, *Grounded 2* is visually striking, with warm lighting and rich detail elevating the atmosphere. But as an early access release, it still suffers from technical hiccups—frame drops, occasional crashes, and occasional glitches that reflect its unfinished state.

Adventure Beckons Despite the Bugs

In spite of its unpolished edges, the game delivers compelling exploration, inventive crafting, and meaningful progression. Whether you’re building safe havens or storming insect nests, the core experience feels both expanded and refined compared to its predecessor.

A Balancing Act of Potential and Patience

As one reviewer put it, the game “flips between brilliance and frustration” :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}. Its bold additions—mounts, a bustling new environment, refined tools—shine with promise. But the early access roughness means patience is required. For those willing to embrace that messy magic, there’s much to look forward to in this ambitious sequel.