Grounded 2 made its debut at the recent Xbox Games Showcase, with an early access release slated for July 29. This approach to game development offers a unique opportunity for developers to refine their creations based on player feedback, yet it also comes with its own set of challenges, particularly when following a successful predecessor.
Challenges of Sequels in Early Access
Marcus Morgan from Obsidian expressed his concerns during an interview with PC Gamer, highlighting the complexities of launching a sequel in early access. “When you’re a sequel to a game that has completed early access, that had five years to iterate and grow, and then you’re a sequel in early access, that’s an incomplete game?” he remarked. This sentiment underscores the delicate balance between innovation and expectation, especially when the original game has set a high standard.
Reflecting on the journey of the first Grounded, Morgan noted that while the game initially captivated players with its engaging atmosphere and intuitive building mechanics, it faced criticism for its limited content. “We ran through the game’s existing story in about an hour, and playing more after that seemed premature,” he admitted. However, over the course of four years, Grounded evolved into one of Obsidian’s flagship titles, boasting a “very positive” rating on Steam and attracting thousands of players daily.
Despite the inevitable comparisons to its predecessor, Morgan remains optimistic about the potential of Grounded 2. He encourages fans to remember the developmental journey of the first game. “If you remember Grounded 1, you know where that game started and where it got to,” he said. “You look at where we’re starting with Grounded 2, hopefully you’re as inspired as we are about where we will end up.”
For those eager to join the adventure, Grounded 2 is currently available for wishlisting on Steam, inviting players to be part of its ongoing evolution.
