Amplitude Studios has unveiled the first playable faction for their upcoming 4X strategy game Endless Legend 2, offering fans a glimpse into the sequel's distinctive faction design philosophy. The Kin of Sheredyn represents a defensive, turtle-style gameplay approach that emphasizes fortification and controlled expansion rather than aggressive conquest.
A Faction Built for Defense
The Kin of Sheredyn are designed specifically for players who prefer a defensive playstyle. Game director Derek Paxton describes them as custom made for turtlers, focusing on building strong fortifications and playing defensively rather than expanding aggressively across the map. The faction revolves around an entrenchment mechanic where players gain increasing bonuses and unlock special abilities as they fortify their cities. This encourages a tall rather than wide empire-building strategy, focusing on developing a few well-defended territories rather than rapid expansion.
Kin of Sheredyn Faction Details
- Playstyle: Defensive/Turtling
- Key Mechanic: Entrenchment system (fortifications provide bonuses)
- Special Abilities: "Holy commandments" (technological powers)
- Notable Units: Legionaries, archers, cavalry, and elite "Chosen" warriors
- Combat Style: Tight formations with shield bonuses for adjacent units
- Lore Connection: Descended from bodyguards of the United Empire in Endless Space 2
Rich Lore Connections
Lore enthusiasts will recognize the Kin of Sheredyn from Endless Space 2, where they served as bodyguards to the Emperor of the United Empire. In Endless Legend 2, this branch of the Sheredyn has been stranded on the planet Saiadha for decades, forced to dig in and protect themselves from harsh weather conditions and attacks from the insectoid Necrophage. Their backstory perfectly complements their defensive gameplay mechanics, creating a cohesive faction identity.
Unique Gameplay Mechanics
The entrenchment system is visualized through a gauge at the top of the screen representing fortifications across all cities. As this gauge increases, players unlock economic bonuses and special abilities called holy commandments. These abilities represent remnants of advanced technology that appear almost magical in the game's fantasy setting. They include powerful actions like instant resource excavation and orbital cannon strikes against enemies.
Military Strategy
Combat with the Kin emphasizes tight formations and defensive positioning. Units receive shield bonuses when adjacent to allies, encouraging players to maintain close formations during tactical battles. This defensive strength is balanced by vulnerability to area-of-effect attacks and enemy units with pushing abilities that can break their formations.
Specialized Units
The faction fields disciplined military units including Legionaries as their backbone troops, supported by archers and cavalry. They also feature elite soldiers called the Chosen who wear power armor and possess special abilities. These Chosen warriors serve a unique tactical purpose as targeting beacons, allowing players to deploy holy commandments beyond their borders—a significant advantage given that these powerful abilities are normally restricted to the faction's territory.
Narrative Elements
Endless Legend 2 continues the series' tradition of strong narrative focus. The Kin's story centers on the mysterious disappearance of Commander Garin, a legendary leader who achieved almost demigod status before vanishing. Players take on the role of General Shaparenko, who must maintain order and stability in Garin's absence while managing failing technology and the challenges of survival on Saiadha. The narrative draws inspiration from Arthurian legend, with the Kin believing their lost leader will someday return to lead them to salvation.
Early Access Plans
Endless Legend 2 is scheduled to enter Early Access later this year with four playable factions, including the Kin of Sheredyn. The game has already garnered significant interest, with over 165,000 Steam wishlists since its announcement in January. Amplitude is also accepting applications for their Insiders Program, offering selected players the opportunity to experience the game early and provide development feedback.
Endless Legend 2 Release Information
- Early Access: Planned for 2025
- Initial Factions: 4 (including Kin of Sheredyn)
- Current Wishlists: Over 165,000 on Steam
- Setting: Planet Saiadha (featuring ocean-strewn landscapes)
- Developer: Amplitude Studios
Building on a Strong Legacy
The original Endless Legend earned praise for its creative approach to the 4X genre, particularly its distinctive faction designs that enabled unique playstyles. With the Kin of Sheredyn reveal, Amplitude appears to be continuing this tradition, creating factions with strong identities and specialized gameplay mechanics that offer alternatives to the more standardized approaches found in other strategy titles.