Monster Train 2 Review
OUR RATING: 9/10
When you first dive into Monster Train 2, you might notice that it retains the core mechanics of the original game. However, don’t let that fool you; this sequel introduces a wealth of new features that make it not just a fantastic sequel, but one of the finest deckbuilders available. The game’s premise remains the same: you’re in charge of a train filled with a motley crew of demons, dragons, and other fantastical beings, all while battling against the forces of Heaven. But this time, the stakes are higher, and the challenges are more complex.
The narrative picks up where the first game left off, with the player having successfully defended Hell from the angels. However, the Seraph, the chief angel, has gone mad and summoned powerful titans to wreak havoc. Your mission is to venture into Heaven, confront these titans, and restore balance to the afterlife. This overarching story adds a layer of depth that was somewhat lacking in the original, making each run feel more meaningful.
At its core, Monster Train 2 is a deckbuilding game, but it introduces several mechanics that set it apart from its competitors. The verticality of the train adds a unique twist to the gameplay. Enemies spawn on the lower floors and attempt to ascend to your pyre, which is located at the top. This layout forces players to think strategically about where to place their units and how to manage their resources effectively.
Players can choose from various factions, each with its own unique cards and abilities. The game encourages experimentation, allowing you to mix and match cards from different factions to create powerful synergies. This flexibility means that no two runs are ever the same, keeping the gameplay fresh and engaging.
The introduction of new card types, such as equipment and room cards, further enhances the strategic depth. Equipment cards can be attached to units, providing them with additional stats and abilities, while room cards can modify the effects of each floor on the train. This added layer of complexity means that players must constantly adapt their strategies based on the cards they draw and the challenges they face.
While gameplay is crucial, Monster Train 2 also excels in its storytelling. The characters are more fleshed out than in the original, with each faction having its own lore and backstory. As you progress through the game, you’ll encounter various events and dialogues that deepen your understanding of the world and its inhabitants.
The narrative unfolds through cutscenes and interactions between characters, making each run feel like part of a larger story. This approach not only enhances immersion but also provides motivation to keep playing. Players will find themselves invested in the outcomes of their runs, eager to see how the story develops.
Visually, Monster Train 2 is a feast for the eyes. The vibrant colors and imaginative character designs create a whimsical yet dark atmosphere that perfectly complements the game’s themes. Each unit is beautifully animated, and the various environments you traverse are visually distinct, adding to the overall aesthetic appeal. The music sets the tone for battles and exploration, enhancing the emotional impact of key moments in the game. Whether you’re strategizing in the heat of battle or navigating through the train’s many floors, the audio elements contribute significantly to the overall experience.
One of the challenges with Monster Train 2 is its learning curve. New players may find themselves overwhelmed by the sheer number of mechanics and card interactions. However, the game does a commendable job of providing tooltips and explanations for various keywords and abilities, making it easier for players to grasp the intricacies of the gameplay.
If you fail a run, you’re not penalized heavily; instead, you’re motivated to try again with a different strategy or faction. This design choice fosters a sense of progression and keeps players engaged, even when faced with setbacks.
The roguelike nature of Monster Train 2 ensures that replayability is a core component of the experience. With multiple factions, card combinations, and challenges to tackle, players can easily lose themselves in the game for hours on end. Each run presents new opportunities and obstacles, making it a joy to explore different strategies and approaches.
The game also features various challenge modes, providing players with additional content to enjoy. These challenges often come with unique modifiers that can drastically change the way you play, adding even more variety to the experience.
All in all, Monster Train 2 is a worthy successor to the first game, offering a rich blend of strategic gameplay, engaging storytelling, and stunning visuals. It’s a shining example of how to build upon a successful formula; expanding upon the foundation laid by the original, introducing new mechanics and features that take the experience to a whole new level. Whether you’re a seasoned deckbuilder or a newcomer to the genre, Monster Train 2 is an easy recommendation to add to your list.
