In a bold move, developer Spiders has rolled out the first major update for Greedfall 2, aiming to address significant player feedback regarding its combat system. The decision to launch the game in early access, while ambitious, has proven to be a challenging endeavor, as noted by PC Gamer’s Fraser Brown in his September 2024 preview. The original Greedfall garnered a loyal following, particularly among fans of the so-called “Eurojank” genre, but its sequel has faced considerable hurdles.
Combat Overhaul
The crux of the issue lies in the combat mechanics, which many players have criticized as slow and unengaging. A wave of negative reviews on Steam echoes this sentiment, particularly from those who cherished the first installment. In response, Spiders has promised a more dynamic combat experience. The latest update introduces:
- Faster Attacks: Players can expect quicker attack triggers and smoother chaining of moves, eliminating the frustrating pauses between strikes.
- Improved Animations: The update boasts snappier animations and transitions, enhancing the overall fluidity of combat.
- Enhanced Character Movement: Characters will now exhibit more fluid motion, allowing for better handling of micro-movements and abilities.
- Refined Target Lock System: Improvements have been made to the targeting system, making it easier for players to engage with enemies effectively.
Spiders has shared several before-and-after gameplay videos, showcasing the enhanced speed and responsiveness that players can anticipate.
New Features and Content
Beyond the combat improvements, this update introduces a wealth of new content. Players can explore the newly added region of Olima, meet a fresh companion, and utilize the Hub—a ship designed for resting, managing parties, and accessing workshops and chests, streamlining the inter-mission RPG experience.
Despite these promising changes, the question remains whether they will be sufficient to revive interest in Greedfall 2. The original title achieved an impressive peak of over 16,000 concurrent players, while its sequel has struggled to reach even 375 at its highest. This stark contrast highlights the uphill battle Spiders faces in regaining player trust and enthusiasm.
As a notable caveat, players should be aware that the extensive changes introduced in this patch will render existing saves incompatible, necessitating a fresh start once the update is installed. Such is the nature of early access, where developers strive to refine their creations based on community feedback.
