Info about SteamWorld Dig 2:

Official game description:
Another SteamWorld Game is out! Play Now!
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About the Game
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Adventure Waits Below the Surface...
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SteamWorld Dig 2 takes you on a platform mining adventure forged in Metroidvania flames. When an old trading town is struck by mysterious earthquakes, it’s up to a lone steambot and her unlikely companion to uncover what trembling terrors lie beneath.  
Dig your way underground and explore vivid worlds riddled with treasure, secrets and traps.  
Combat dangerous enemies at every turn of the underworld’s twisted paths, including shadowy creatures and the haunted remains of an ancient electrical threat.  
Upgrade your gear to forge deeper into the earth and take on bigger challenges.  
Swing across large chasms with your Hookshot and fly through caves with the Jet Engine!  
And finally, learn the truth about your long lost friend…

Release date: Sep 22, 2017

Categories: Metroidvania, Platformer, Exploration, Upgrade System, 2D Platformer, Single-player, Action-Adventure

Feature scans:
- Proton/Linux: score 10; verdict: Works Well; summary: SteamWorld Dig 2 has a highly reliable native Linux build that runs perfectly for virtually all users. One reviewer encountered a controller recognition issue with the native version that was trivially fixed by switching to Proton. No anti-cheat, DRM, or other blockers exist. Overall Linux compatibility is excellent.
- Steam Deck: score 10; verdict: Seamless on Steam Deck; summary: The game provides a seamless Steam Deck experience with excellent performance, battery life, and controller support. The only minor drawback is slightly small dialog text, which does not hinder playability.

- Hardware Profile: No data
Feature extractions:
- Community Price:
  - Community fair range: $5.00 - $10.00
  - Reasoning: Most reviewers find the full base price (around $20) too high for the game's length and content, and repeatedly recommend waiting for a sale with typical sale prices of $2-$5 cited as good value. This consensus suggests the community considers a fair base price in the $5-$10 range, as that reflects the perceived value without requiring a deep discount.
- Playtime Metrics:
  - Game completion: 20.0h
  - Story completion: 7.0h
  - Session length: N/A
  - Endgame: N/A
  - Reasoning: The game completion time is estimated at 20 hours based on two sources: one quoting 20-30 hours for 100% and another quoting 15-20 hours for full completion, with 20 being the overlapping lower bound. The story completion time is estimated at 7 hours, derived from a 6-8 hour range and an 8 hour playthrough with moderate exploration, averaged to 7 hours. No reliable data for session length or endgame duration was found, so those are set to null.
- Time-to-fun:
  - Summary: SteamWorld Dig 2 begins with slow, tedious mining and limited mobility, but becomes highly engaging once players unlock key traversal tools like the grappling hook and jet engine, typically a few hours into the game.
  - Stance: Clicks after
  - Anchor: Acquiring mobility upgrades
  - Time to anchor: N/A
  - Friction: initial tedium in mining; slow progression at start; repetitive mining loop; limited mobility early on
  - Unlock drivers: acquiring mobility upgrades; unlocking grappling hook; jet engine; hook shot; pressure bomb
  - Conditions: if you go deeper; once you get more efficient tools; after obtaining key mobility upgrades; when upgrades become more frequent
- Player Archetypes:
  - Casual Relaxer (buy)
    - Motivation: Relaxation and stress-free gameplay loop
    - Playstyle: Slow-paced mining, exploring at own pace, upgrading without rushing
    - Experience: mixed
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: N/A
    - Reference games: Wall World; Dome Keeper
  - Goblin Collector (buy)
    - Motivation: Completing all content, finding collectibles, and earning achievements
    - Playstyle: Thorough exploration, seeking hidden rooms, collecting every item and upgrade
    - Experience: familiar
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: goblin
    - Reference games: N/A
  - Series Veteran (sale)
    - Motivation: Appreciation of series evolution and improved mechanics
    - Playstyle: Familiar mining loop, methodical upgrade progression, comparative exploration
    - Experience: veteran
    - Purchase stance: sale
    - Labels: N/A
    - Reference games: SteamWorld Dig 1


Below are summaries of things people say about the game per category.
Each point is assigned a weight that represents how often it is mentioned across all reviews.
What players like:
- Improvement over predecessor (weight 0.8): Many players highlight that this game is a clear and significant improvement over the first installment in terms of gameplay, story, graphics, and content. It is consistently described as bigger, better, and more complete.
- Engaging and addictive fun (weight 0.48): Players find the gameplay very fun, addictive, and satisfying, with a rewarding core loop that encourages hours of play. The fluid controls and dynamic action contribute to an enjoyable experience.
- Excellent metroidvania gameplay (weight 0.37): The game is widely praised as a good to excellent metroidvania, with a fun blend of exploration, platforming, and combat. Players appreciate the genre execution and the mix with other elements.
- Satisfying progression system (weight 0.26): Reviewers appreciate the rewarding progression and upgrade system, which includes meaningful skills and tools. The sense of growth and customization is highlighted as a key positive.
- Improved graphics and visuals (weight 0.25): The game boasts nicer graphics, better animations, and more vibrant, stylized visuals compared to its predecessor. The improved art direction is positively noted.
- Great soundtrack and audio (weight 0.24): The soundtrack is consistently praised as good, immersive, and not tiresome, with pleasant sound design and atmosphere. The audio significantly enhances the experience.
- Engrossing exploration world (weight 0.24): Exploration is highlighted as fun and rewarding, with a large map full of secrets and surprises. The world is considered interesting and satisfying to explore.
- Good story and narrative (weight 0.22): The story is considered well-constructed, deeper than the first game, and a meaningful continuation. It is described as unexpected but great and overall enjoyable.
- Worthy sequel overall (weight 0.21): The game is considered a fantastic and worthwhile sequel that builds on the original while introducing new features. It is praised as a perfect continuation that deserves recognition.
- Fun digging mechanics (weight 0.18): The digging and collecting mechanics are described as more enjoyable than before, forming a core part of the satisfying gameplay loop. The act of digging is specifically praised.
- New gameplay mechanics (weight 0.18): Players note the introduction of new abilities and mechanics that change gameplay, adding variety and depth. New tools like the hookshot and pressure bombs are appreciated.
- Appropriate difficulty level (weight 0.13): The difficulty is described as well-balanced, offering a good challenge without being too easy or too hard. Players appreciate the ability to adjust difficulty to their preference.
- Great 2D platformer (weight 0.11): The game is recognized as a great 2D platformer with excellent side-scrolling action and a comfortable adventure feel. It stands out among platformers.
- Great for Steam Deck (weight 0.1): Multiple players confirm the game runs excellently on Steam Deck, achieving 60 fps with low battery drain. This makes it a highly recommended title for portable play.
- Challenging puzzles and secrets (weight 0.09): The puzzles and secrets present a good challenge, adding to the exploration and discovery aspects. Players enjoy the mysterious treasures and interesting world.
- More enemy variety (weight 0.09): The game introduces more enemy types, including visually and gameplay-wise changes to old ones. This adds to the combat and exploration experience.

Common complaints:
- Story is weak and abrupt (weight 0.33): Players consistently find the story underwhelming, shallow, and forgettable. Many note the ending is abrupt and unsatisfying, diminishing overall enjoyment.
- Lack of Chinese language support (weight 0.27): A significant number of players report no official Chinese language support, requiring community patches that may cause stability issues. This creates a major barrier for Chinese-speaking audiences.
- Final boss is too difficult (weight 0.16): The final boss is widely criticized for being excessively difficult, with projectile spam and long phases making the fight stressful and tedious compared to the first game.
- Too few and unimpressive bosses (weight 0.15): The game features very few boss battles, and those present are considered unimpressive or too easy, reducing excitement and variety.
- Pacing and repetition issues (weight 0.15): Players feel the game is paced poorly and more repetitive than its predecessor, losing the relaxed rhythm that made the first game appealing.
- Difficulty spikes and frustration (weight 0.14): The game has unfair difficulty spikes and frustrating sections, with some areas being overly challenging compared to the first game.
- Game is too short (weight 0.13): The game is considered too short for its price, with a brief story and limited content that diminishes value and replayability.
- Weak and clunky combat (weight 0.13): Combat is described as weak, clunky, and unsatisfying, lacking the excitement and fulfillment expected from the series.
- Low replay value (weight 0.12): There is little incentive to replay the game due to lack of New Game Plus or endless modes, and achievements are difficult to complete in one playthrough.
- Slow and boring beginning (weight 0.05): The game starts slowly and is boring initially, which may discourage players early on.
- Poor platforming design (weight 0.05): Platforming elements, especially in caves, are frustrating and not a strong point of the game, feeling out of place.
- Excessively hidden items (weight 0.05): Hidden items are placed in overly obscure locations, making them tedious to find and contributing to frustration.
- Not worth full price (weight 0.05): Players feel the game is not worth buying without a deep discount due to its short length and low content value.
- Missing Portuguese subtitles (weight 0.04): Portuguese (Brazil) subtitles are missing, limiting accessibility for Portuguese-speaking players.
- Core mining mechanic is tedious (weight 0.04): The core mining and selling loop feels pointless and chore-like, reducing enjoyment from the main gameplay activity.
- Achievements are troublesome (weight 0.04): Unlocking all achievements is difficult and impossible in a single playthrough, frustrating completionists.

Gameplay feedback:
- Metroidvania with mining mechanics (weight 0.82): The game is frequently described as a metroidvania that incorporates mining and exploration. Players dig for resources, upgrade their abilities, and unlock new areas, combining platforming with resource gathering.
- Platformer exploration focus (weight 0.34): Many reviews note the 2D platforming and metroidvania-style exploration. The game features side-scrolling action, backtracking, and ability-gated progression typical of the genre.
- Upgrade and skill system (weight 0.28): The game includes a robust upgrade system for tools, weapons, and skills. Players can enhance their abilities, such as the jet engine and hookshot, to improve traversal and mining efficiency.
- Digging core gameplay loop (weight 0.28): Digging and mining are described as the central activities, with players collecting ore, gems, and minerals. This loop drives progression and upgrades.
- Puzzle caves with challenges (weight 0.15): Several reviews highlight side caves and dungeons that contain puzzles and platforming challenges. These offer additional secrets and rewards for exploration.
- Progression ability gates (weight 0.08): New abilities and equipment unlock access to previously unreachable areas. This metroidvania-style gate system encourages backtracking and upgrades.
- Boss fights with simple mechanics (weight 0.08): Boss battles are mentioned as present but straightforward, often featuring invulnerability phases. They provide combat challenges alongside exploration.
- Hidden collectibles discovery (weight 0.08): The game contains hidden collectibles and secret levels, totaling 42 items. Finding them adds replay value and rewards thorough exploration.
- Direct sequel continuation (weight 0.07): This game is a direct sequel to a previous title, continuing the story. Players familiar with the first game will recognize characters and settings.

Performance notes:
- Plays well on low-end hardware (weight 0.16): Users confirm smooth performance on older or integrated graphics, including Intel HD Graphics and 4200n Linux systems. The game is very accessible.
- Runs great on Steam Deck (weight 0.11): Multiple users report 60 FPS and low battery drain on Steam Deck; one mentions 290 FPS. Performance is consistently praised.
- Works on Linux (weight 0.1): The game runs smoothly on Linux via Proton or natively, with only minor controller issues in the native build. Default Proton configuration is sufficient.
- Stable and smooth performance (weight 0.1): Players note no stutters, micro-stutters, or frame pacing issues, with instant loading and 25+ hours without crashes. Performance is highly reliable.
- Minimal hardware strain (weight 0.08): CPU and GPU loads are low, making the game suitable for weak computers. Very good optimization ensures playability even on modest setups.
- Suitable for short or long sessions (weight 0.03): The game is appropriate for both quick play and extended gameplay sessions, offering flexibility for different play styles.
- Stable high frame rate at 1440p (weight 0.03): The game maintains a stable 120 FPS at 1440p resolution, showcasing excellent optimization for higher-end displays.
- Crashes on some laptops (weight 0.03): Frequent crashes are reported on laptops, though this appears limited to certain hardware configurations.
- FPS drop on older iMac (weight 0.03): An iMac 2017 base model experiences frame rate drops, indicating some older hardware may struggle.
- Windows sound issue workaround (weight 0.03): A digging sound is too low on Windows 11; an audio enhancement workaround exists. This is a minor but specific bug.
- Mod causes crashes (weight 0.03): One user experienced crashes that made the game unplayable, attributed to a mod rather than the base game.
- Opens full screen by default (weight 0.03): The game launches directly into full screen mode, which is appreciated by players.

Recommendations:
- Recommended for fans of first game (weight 0.4): Many reviewers strongly recommend this game to players who enjoyed the first game in the series. It is considered a must-buy for returning fans, though some suggest approaching it with caution if you seek a challenging experience.
- Excellent for metroidvania fans (weight 0.3): The game is widely recommended for fans of the metroidvania genre, including both newcomers and experienced players. It is praised as a must-play for those who enjoy exploration and progression.
- Strong recommendation to everyone (weight 0.25): Some reviewers give an unconditional recommendation, urging all players to try the game. This indicates broad appeal beyond specific genre preferences.
- Play first game first recommended (weight 0.2): Several reviewers advise playing the first SteamWorld Dig game before this one to fully appreciate the story and improvements. It is seen as a direct sequel that benefits from prior knowledge.
- Great value on sale (weight 0.17): Many reviewers suggest waiting for a sale to purchase the game, as it offers excellent value at a discounted price. The low cost makes it a no-brainer for interested players.
- Enjoyed by platformer fans (weight 0.16): The game is recommended for fans of 2D side-scrolling platformers, emphasizing its solid platforming gameplay. It is considered an excellent choice within the genre.
- Not for seeking challenge (weight 0.16): One reviewer mentions that the game is not for those seeking a challenging experience like the first game. This suggests it may be easier or more accessible than its predecessor.
- Appeals to digging game fans (weight 0.12): The mining and digging mechanics are highlighted as a major draw for fans of that gameplay style. Reviewers specifically recommend it to players who enjoy digging and mining games.
- Worth the price (weight 0.1): Several reviewers affirm that the game is worth its full price, providing good value for money. It is considered an excellent purchase both at full price and on sale.
- High score ratings (weight 0.08): Reviewers frequently give the game high scores, such as 9/10 or 10/10, reflecting strong overall quality and enjoyment. These scores support a strong recommendation.
- Appeals to adventure game fans (weight 0.08): The game is recommended for fans of adventure games and platform action games. It is seen as a great adventure that combines exploration with platforming.
- Good for newcomers to series (weight 0.06): Some reviewers note that the game works well as a standalone entry point for newcomers, not requiring prior experience with the series. It is considered a good starting point for new players.
- Bundle with first game recommended (weight 0.06): Buying the bundle with SteamWorld Dig 1 is highlighted as excellent value, especially at a low price point. Reviewers recommend this option for maximum value.
- Ideal for unwinding (weight 0.06): The game is described as a relaxing experience suitable for passing time and unwinding. It is recommended for players looking for a casual, low-stress game.

Other player notes:
- English patch causes crash (weight 0.03): The 3DM Simplified Chinese patch for the first game crashes the game when selecting a difficulty, but switching to the Traditional Chinese patch works. This is a specific technical issue affecting only the modded version.
- Fan translation available (weight 0.03): A fan-made translation exists for the second game, indicating community-driven localization efforts. This point is based on a single mention without further detail.

Emotions:
- Satisfaction (weight 0.17): Players repeatedly cite comprehensive improvements over the first game, including larger maps, deeper story, better graphics, and quality-of-life features like teleportation. The well-paced progression, rewarding upgrade system, and satisfying digging loop create a consistently enjoyable experience. Many also appreciate the game's polish, bug-free performance, and excellent value for its price.
- Enjoyment (weight 0.14): Players consistently praise the smooth, dynamic gameplay loop of digging, exploring, and upgrading. The addictive core mechanics, excellent music, charming graphics, and well-paced progression keep engagement high from start to finish. Many highlight the game's relaxing nature and clear guidance, making it ideal for casual sessions.
- Frustration (weight 0.11): The most common frustrations stem from difficulty spikes, particularly with the final boss and secret challenge caves. Lack of language support (especially Chinese and Portuguese) makes instructions and story comprehension difficult for non-English speakers. Control issues like inability to jump while mining, floaty platforming, and backtracking also contribute to negative experiences.
- Disappointment (weight 0.09): Many players found the story and ending abrupt and underwhelming, with weak boss fights and a shift away from the mining focus toward metroidvania elements. The game's short length relative to its price and lack of endgame content or replayability modes left some feeling unsatisfied. Comparisons to the first game's relaxing mining pace highlight the sequel's loss of identity.
- Excitement (weight 0.08): The game's constant introduction of new abilities, tools like the hookshot and jetpack, and transformative upgrades create a powerful sense of progression and freedom. Players describe the gameplay as highly addictive and engaging, with many unable to put the game down and eagerly anticipating a third installment. The hidden secrets, puzzles, and exploration rewards fuel ongoing excitement.
- Admiration (weight 0.03): Reviewers express deep respect for the game's craftsmanship, praising its beautiful hand-painted art, remarkable soundtrack, and polished mechanics. Many consider it a masterpiece in the Metroidvania genre, ranking it alongside Hollow Knight and Ori. The developers' evident care and love for the game are frequently acknowledged.
- Surprise (weight 0.03): Players were often surprised by the game's quality, far exceeding expectations for a seemingly simple or budget title. The depth of the map, ability-gated progression reminiscent of Hollow Knight, and unexpected story twists caught many off guard. Several noted becoming deeply hooked despite initial skepticism or not being fans of the genre.
- Annoyance (weight 0.02): Common annoyances include floaty platforming, confusing death mechanics, and frustrating collectible requirements that force multiple playthroughs. Missing language support and questionable design choices in platforming sections further irritate players. Bugs like the Golem Altar softlock also detract from the experience.
- Appreciation (weight 0.02): Players appreciate the game as a near-perfect sequel that improves on the original while retaining its charm. The hand-painted map, well-designed progression, and timeless art style are frequently praised. Many view the game as a hidden gem and commend its high quality, especially when available at a low price or for free.
- Relaxation (weight 0.02): The game is widely described as a stress-relieving, chill experience thanks to its calming mining loop, low difficulty, and calm pacing. Players find it ideal for unwinding after work, with gameplay that does not require excessive mental energy. The early game's platforming and progression maintain a soothing rhythm.
- Love (weight 0.02): A number of players express deep affection, calling the game a personal favorite and one of the best in its genre. They praise the improved map design, movement, story, and abilities that make it superior to the first game. The engaging digging loop and overall polish inspire a strong emotional connection.
- Nostalgia (weight 0.01): The game evokes strong nostalgia, reminding players of classic arcade titles like Dig-Dug and Motherload, as well as fond memories on the Nintendo 3DS. The relaxing platformer feel of the first game and the tactical mining sections are recalled positively. References to Hollow Knight also appear in some comparisons.
- Pleasure (weight 0.01): Players derive pleasure from the modular upgrade system, customization freedom, and satisfying exploration of the underground world. Smooth animations, chill gameplay, and beautiful visuals contribute to a consistently pleasant experience. Multiple playthroughs and high completion are noted as enjoyable.
- Addiction (weight 0.01): The gameplay loop is described as 'just one more dig' addiction, with many players playing for hours without noticing time passing. The simple yet highly addictive mechanics and exploration hook users deeply, often leading to late-night sessions. The progression and discovery cycle is cited as the primary driver.
- Joy (weight 0.01): Joy stems from soft visuals, fitting music, and the freedom of revisiting old areas with new abilities. Sequence breaking and creative movement options add a sense of playfulness. The warm, inviting presentation and immersive gameplay loop create an overall feeling of happiness.
- Engagement (weight 0.01): The game keeps players thoroughly engaged through its atmosphere, progression, and addictive exploration of secrets. The digging, exploring, and upgrading loop is highly compelling, and the story never allows for boredom. Many report being unable to put down the controller until completion.
- Happiness (weight 0.01): Lore, humorous dialogues, and the joy of digging for treasure contribute to a sense of happiness. Players appreciate the game as a worthy successor and a cozy title they can revisit anytime. The overall positive feedback loop reinforces good feelings throughout.
- Anticipation (weight 0.01): The ending hints at a sequel set in space, generating strong anticipation for a third game in the series. Many players explicitly express looking forward to or waiting for SteamWorld Dig 3. The hook of potential continuation keeps excitement alive.
- Amusement (weight 0.01): Players find amusement in the humorous concept of legally mining and selling plutonium, as well as the charming story and funny dialogues. The character design, such as playing as a robot with braids, adds to the lighthearted tone. The unexpected shift from relaxation to Metroidvania also draws chuckles.
- Amazement (weight 0.01): The intelligent, handcrafted level design and overall quality leave players amazed, with many stating the sequel surpasses the first in every way. Items like JackPot and super hand that make the game delightfully easy are also appreciated. The visual and animation improvements are particularly highlighted.}