SteamWorld Dig 2

SteamWorld Dig 2 is a side-scrolling mining platformer built around tunneling downward, collecting ore, and opening new routes with better tools. By our assessment, its biggest strength is the loop of digging, upgrading, and returning to places that change as your gear improves; that gives the game a steady sense of progress. The downside is that the structure is still a metroid-style loop, so backtracking and route checking are part of the package. In play it has the pleasing rhythm of breaking through rock, seeing what was hidden, and then coming back stronger. Compared with the first game, this sequel is broader and cleaner, with more room to explore and a more polished pace. SteamWorld Dig 2 is a good fit for players who like movement, discovery, and constant small rewards, and it never tries to be anything other than a focused underground adventure.