All aboard-Monster Train 2 has pulled into the station, bringing a cargo hold stuffed with new cards, factions, and strategic possibilities. The beloved deckbuilding roguelike returns, challenging players to once again unite the forces of Heaven and Hell against world-ending Titans. With its arrival today on PC, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S (and a ticket price of $24.99 or included in Xbox Game Pass), is this sequel a must-play for fans and newcomers alike?
Monster Train 2 doesn’t just rest on the laurels of its genre-defining predecessor-it aims to upend expectations with a cavalcade of new features. Players can now experiment with innovative card types, fresh clans, and a dynamic multi-floor battlefield that keeps even veteran strategists on their toes. But does this sequel deliver meaningful evolution, or just more of the same in a shiny new package? Let’s break down what’s inside this armored engine.
Key Takeaways
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Publisher | Big Fan / Devolver Digital |
| Release Date | May 21, 2025 |
| Genres | Deckbuilder, Roguelike, Strategy |
| Platforms | PC, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S (Xbox Game Pass) |
Monster Train 2’s core draws from the original’s blend of tactical deckbuilding and three-tiered battlegrounds, but amps up the variety with new clans and card types. The Banished, Pyreborne, Luna Coven, Underlegion, and Lazarus League each offer distinct playstyles—from stacking valor with holy hymnists to commanding fungal rot or wielding explosive science. This diversity, paired with new ‘Equipment’ and ‘Room’ cards, opens up a wider array of synergies (and, let’s be honest, wild combos for seasoned min-maxers).
One of the headline additions is Endless Mode, which promises to push even the most seasoned strategists to their limits as difficulty steadily ramps up. The game also boasts Daily and Dimensional challenges, mutators for remixing rules, and leaderboards to keep the competitive spirit alive. If you crave a break from the intensity, train customization and a bevy of unlockables—ranging from new Pyre Hearts with unique powers to visual upgrades—give players plenty of reason to return for “just one more run.”
The PC version sweetens the deal with a Supporter Pack, bundled with a digital soundtrack, art book, and behind-the-scenes goodies—a nice cherry for dedicated fans, though not critical to the core gameplay. For newcomers, Monster Train 2 remains approachable thanks to a gentle early learning curve, but its true depth emerges as you dive into faction synergies and challenge modes.
What stands out is how Monster Train 2 respects the tactical legacy of its predecessor while confidently expanding its design space. While some may wish for even more radical innovation, fans of the original will likely find this sequel to be a thoughtful, content-rich evolution. For those chasing the thrill of the perfect run—or hoping to climb the leaderboard rails—Monster Train 2 offers a ticket well worth punching.
Check out the launch trailer for a taste of the action:
TL;DR: Monster Train 2 dials up the deckbuilding chaos with new factions, card types, and an Endless Mode, now available for $24.99 on all platforms and Xbox Game Pass. Smart refinements and deeper tactical layers make it a strong recommendation for veterans and newcomers craving a strategic roguelike fix.
Source: Big Fan via GamesPress