The video addresses the common question of whether Space Engineers 2 is worth buying, especially considering its early access status and comparisons to the original Space Engineers. The host explains that Space Engineers 2 is a sequel built on a new engine that resolves many issues of the first game, such as stability problems and limitations with planets. The new engine supports features like volumetric water and offers significant graphical and physics improvements, making it a more modern and refined experience compared to the nearly 13-year-old original.
One of the standout new features in Space Engineers 2 is the unified grid system, which allows for building with blocks of varying sizes on a single grid, improving ship construction flexibility. Quality of life improvements such as blueprinting, projection building in survival mode, and an area welder tool make building and designing ships much easier and more intuitive. The game also introduces caves and overhangs to terrain, enhancing exploration compared to the flat landscapes of the original game.
The colonization system is highlighted as the biggest gameplay advancement, offering players contracts to complete in various sectors, which influence the development and activity in those areas. This system adds direction and purpose to gameplay, addressing one of the original game’s shortcomings. While most major features from Space Engineers 1 have been incorporated, some blocks and mechanics like airtightness, programmable blocks, and certain AI features are still missing but expected in future updates.
Performance remains a work in progress due to the game’s early access status, though recent updates have significantly improved it. The host notes that with a high-end PC, the game runs well at max settings, and even older hardware now handles it better than at launch. Multiplayer is currently absent but is planned for upcoming updates, with co-op multiplayer for up to four players expected by the end of the year, alongside NPC combat features.
In conclusion, Space Engineers 2 is presented as a better, more polished version of the original game, albeit still incomplete. Players seeking a fully featured and mod-rich experience might prefer the original for now, but those interested in new gameplay systems like colonization and improved building tools should consider trying the sequel. The host recommends waiting for future updates if performance, multiplayer, or missing features are a concern, while promising ongoing coverage of the game’s development on their channel.
