Gameplay

Risk of Rain 2 diverges significantly from its predecessor, which was primarily a 2D side-scrolling shooter, by immersing players in a fully 3D world. Players traverse various terrains on foot, venturing through subterranean caves, verdant jungles, and lofty plateaus, among other locales. These diverse environments are laden with hazards such as perilous canyons and molten lava pits. To reach elevated areas, players can utilize a jetpack, which also proves advantageous in combat against certain adversaries. Similar to the original game, players can gather items of varying rarity that provide temporary passive enhancements.

Throughout the adventure, players will face the planet's indigenous inhabitants, posing significant challenges to their skill and ingenuity. Enemies in Risk of Rain 2 are categorized into regular monsters and bosses. Standard foes range from diminutive wisps to humanoid Lemurians and Imps, as well as mechanical Contraptions and Stone Golems. Each type of common monster has a fixed amount of health and damage, both of which increase with their level. Bosses are notably tougher and inflict greater damage. All enemies also appear in elite variants, differentiated by traits such as fire and ice.

Story and Setting

You're stranded! After your spaceship crash-lands on an alien planet, any hope for rescue seems bleak. Together with other survivors, you must navigate this uncharted and perilous world, realizing that surviving the crash was just the beginning of your challenges. The planet, teeming with hostile creatures, demands courage and resilience. To endure, you must combat the ferocious beasts eager to make you their next meal. Armed with a variety of weapons and items, fight your way through a range of enemies, both large and small. Collaborate with fellow survivors and, with luck, you might just escape this hostile environment.

Initial Reception

The early access release of Risk of Rain 2 for PC in 2018 was met with enthusiastic approval. Reviewers lauded the game’s diverse settings, the distinct character classes, and the boss battles, which demanded skill, strategy, and a solid item build. The fairness of combat, with clear visual and audio cues indicating enemy attacks, was also praised. The randomization of item drops was highlighted as a feature that enhanced the game's replayability. Additional commendations were given for the game’s polished graphics and overall enjoyment, even at this preliminary stage.

Key Features

• Survival: As a crash survivor, explore the alien planet to seek a way out.
• Character Variety: Select from various character classes, each with unique skills essential for survival.
• Hostile Environment: Face a range of creatures, from small sprites to imposing bosses.
• Resourcefulness: Collect items and gold to upgrade your character and withstand the harsh environment.
• Cooperation: Team up with other players to combat monstrous foes.
• Early Access: Available since March 28, 2019.