Obsidian Entertainment has returned with Grounded 2, the much-anticipated sequel to their hit miniaturized survival adventure. Co-developed with Eidos-Montréal and published by Xbox Game Studios, the game launched in early access on July 29, 2025, for Xbox Series X|S and PC, and is available through Xbox Game Pass. While the core premise remains familiar—tiny heroes surviving in a giant world—Grounded 2 expands its scope in almost every way.
A Bigger World With Bigger Ideas
The action now takes place across the vast Brookhollow Park, offering more diverse environments than the first game’s backyard setting. Powered by Unreal Engine 5, the game boasts lush, vibrant visuals, with improved lighting, detailed textures, and striking day-night transitions that make the world feel truly alive.
But this isn’t just a prettier map. Obsidian has listened to community feedback, incorporating over 900 player suggestions to refine mechanics, expand content, and improve accessibility.
What’s New: Rideable Bugs and Smarter Tools
The most headline-grabbing addition is rideable insect companions, affectionately nicknamed buggies. These mounts speed up travel, help in combat, and can even assist with gathering resources. There’s nothing quite like charging into battle atop a ladybug or navigating Brookhollow Park on the back of a beetle.
Another major change is the Omni-Tool, which replaces the clutter of multiple tools like axes and shovels. This single, unbreakable, upgradeable tool streamlines gameplay while keeping exploration and crafting engaging. Windows Central praised the change as reducing survival-game “busywork” without dumbing the game down. However, we believe fast travel should have been included in this game.
Improved Combat and Progression
Combat has also received an overhaul. Players can now block, dodge, and charge attacks, with expanded weapon variety—including dual-wielding. Crafting and progression feel more intuitive, and the streamlined UI makes objectives and missions easier to follow. There’s also a lighthearted story woven into the adventure, complete with a mischievous hacker antagonist and playful tone that retains the original’s charm.
Critical and Player Reception
Reception has been overwhelmingly positive. On Steam, over 84% of the game’s 6,700+ reviews are rated “Very Positive.” PC Gamer called it “one of the best survival games I’ve ever played,” while GamesRadar described it as “Grounded 1.5”—a sequel that improves nearly everything without reinventing the formula. GameSpot praised its polish and new features like buggies, though noted Creative Mode still needs more content.
If you loved the original Grounded, this sequel is an easy recommendation. It’s bigger, more polished, and adds meaningful new features like rideable bugs and streamlined tools. Even with some missing content and performance hiccups, Grounded 2 already feels like a playful, immersive survival experience—and it’s only going to grow from here. Whether you want to explore solo or team up with friends, Grounded 2 is shaping up to be one of the most charming and engaging survival games on the market.
Score: 9.5 out 10