The beloved co-op survival game franchise is making a swift return as Obsidian Entertainment officially announced Grounded 2 during the Xbox Games Showcase, confirming an early access launch date of July 29, 2025. The sequel promises to expand significantly on the microscopic adventure formula that made the original a standout in the survival genre.
Massive Scale Expansion with Community Park Setting
The most striking change in Grounded 2 is its dramatically expanded world size. Moving beyond the suburban backyard of the original game, players will now explore an entire abandoned community park that spans three times the area of the first game. The starting area alone matches the complete size of the original Grounded, indicating the ambitious scope Obsidian has planned for this sequel. The park setting provides diverse environments created by the chaos of rapid evacuation, including frozen caverns formed by a toppled ice cream cart and toxic zones near anthills where dangerous cockroaches have taken residence.
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| A whimsical caterpillar-like creature embodies the vibrant and diverse environments of Grounded 2's expanded community park |
Enhanced Combat System and Character Progression
Combat receives a comprehensive overhaul with the introduction of a rock-paper-scissors system incorporating light attacks, heavy attacks, and defensive blocks. New dash mechanics provide players with enhanced mobility options for both offensive strikes and defensive maneuvers. The sequel introduces class-like archetypes that allow for diverse character builds, ranging from stealthy rogues and precision archers to spell-casting mages, giving players more strategic depth in their approach to surviving the miniaturized world.
Revolutionary Mount System and Bug Companions
One of the most innovative additions to Grounded 2 is the introduction of rideable insects that serve as both transportation and combat allies. Players can mount ants to assist with supply transportation and excavation tasks, with red ant soldiers capable of recruiting up to two worker ants as followers. Orb weaver spiders offer a more combat-focused mounting option, delivering devastating attacks with impressive speed while possessing the ability to stun enemies through intimidating shrieks. This mount system represents a significant evolution in player mobility and tactical options.
Development Partnership and Timeline
Obsidian has partnered with Eidos Montreal for the development of Grounded 2, combining expertise to deliver the expanded vision. The game will launch through Xbox Game Preview, allowing players to experience the evolution of the franchise while providing feedback during the development process. Set in 1992, the sequel maintains the nostalgic early-90s atmosphere while introducing age-appropriate character development as the original quartet of teenagers returns several years older.
Early Access Availability and Platform Integration
Grounded 2 will be available through Xbox Game Preview starting July 29, 2025, providing immediate access to the expanded survival experience. The early access model allows Obsidian to gather community feedback while continuing development, following the successful approach used for the original game's development cycle. This launch strategy ensures players can begin exploring the massive park environment while the development team continues refining and expanding the content based on player experiences and suggestions.