I have only dipped my toes into the city survival genre. More specifically, Frostpunk, I have only put a handful of hours into it. But, the promises 11 Bit Studios are building on and how they look to elevate the follow-up Frostpunk 2 have me excited to see what potential the series and genre could reach.
Whereas the original title focused more on the individual, Frostpunk 2 looks to focus on the society you are raising as a whole. We see this almost immediately as instead of working on a single block that would amount to a hamlet like in its predecessor, we are given this vast view of what looks to be an actual city.
We are given glimpses into how decisions around your city will affect the thousands of residents living in it. At one point, our presenter builds a facility that puts human waste to good use. But in doing so, people start to fall more ill, and there is at the same time a more significant push for children to no longer work. Frostpunk 2 looks to test your morals as a city builder, and it’s an interesting mechanic.
There is a big push into the everyday politics that will run your city, with each choice having the potential to alter how your city expands vastly. When it is time to make these choices, you’ll enter the council building, and much like in politics, each group or eventually splinter group will hold several seats. It is up to you to garner a group to vote with what you are pushing for, but in return, they might ask that you overturn some previous laws or side with them on the next vote.
“Frostpunk 2 looks to test your morals as a city builder, and it’s an interesting mechanic.”
This, in turn, adds a layer of strategy because do you want to keep the scholars happy? Then, you better keep your promises even if it goes against your moral code. Or, next time you need a favour, they might not be willing to help you out.
Frostpunk 2 expands the idea of the first in almost every way, whereas Frostpunk 1 was a survival game. This sequel really asks, what’s more important, the needs of the few or the needs of the many?
While we don’t have a solid release date for Frostpunk 2, this is one I’ll be keeping my eye on.
