Veewo Games releases Neon Abyss 2

Veewo Games, a small Chinese studio, has released Neon Abyss 2, a sequel to its 2020 roguelike game Neon Abyss. The game entered early access on PC over a year ago and includes new content, features, and improvements based on player feedback.

Setting and characters in Neon Abyss 2

Neon Abyss 2 continues the story of the "Grim Squad," a group sent by the god Hades to defeat New Gods. The game is set in a deformed version of New York, where players take on one of eleven Agents, each with unique starting gear and abilities.

Core gameplay mechanics remain similar

The game retains its core mechanics as a 2D action roguelike with randomly generated floors. Players face enemies, collect items, and battle bosses. If they die, they return to the start but keep upgrades for future runs. Each Agent has unique starting equipment, and players can accumulate items with passive effects.

Returning features and new additions

The Hatchmon, small creatures that hatch from eggs, return and can evolve by collecting three of the same type. They assist in combat and can be used to clear rooms, though some may hinder the player.

New systems and gameplay styles

Neon Abyss 2 introduces a more diverse weapon system, including close combat weapons, magical objects, and even dragon-like creatures. Weapons can be upgraded and recycled for experience. The Faith system replaces the previous Violence and Wisdom system, offering different gameplay styles such as Consumerism, Artisanism, and Fortunism.

Progression and game modes

The game includes a larger hub world and permanent upgrades that affect the Abysse itself. Bosses now have randomly selected skills, and two game modes are available: Abysse Invasion for exploration and Storm Assault for quick sessions.

Multiplayer and technical issues

An online multiplayer mode is included, though it was not tested due to a lack of players. The game has freezes during loading and runs at a fixed 30 FPS, which can be frustrating. Level design is criticized for becoming repetitive quickly, and some items have minimal effects.

Mixed reception and final score

The review gives Neon Abyss 2 a score of 5/10, praising new systems and features but criticizing technical issues, repetitive level design, and the overall feel of the game being more of an incremental update than a true sequel.