After much anticipation ahead of its release, Kerbal Space Program 2is finally out for players to enjoy in early access. The first game was vast, and the sequel is setting its targets even higher this time. Although this meant a lengthy development process, it also means fans of the game will be treated to an ambitious game that literally aims for the moon and beyond.
Kerbal Space Program 1launched all the way back in 2015 and was a monumental success. The game inspired many players to learn about rocket science, even if it did mean a few brave Kerbals were lost in space. Now it’s time to repeat the process and enjoy a brand-new version of the incredible game. Here are some of the biggest changes to look out for inKerbal Space Program 2.
10Colonies & Interstellar Travel
An original feature coming toKerbal Space Program 2is the colonies add-on. This creates new challenges for players and developers, as the scale is much larger. It has already been revealed that there will be new build structures and unique fuel types that will allow players toexplore deep space.
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Even though colonies are not yet implemented, the interstellar travel feature is inextricably linked. The new interstellar technologies mean possibilities to explore far-off star systems, and this means venturing to all new planets added toKSP2.
9Graphics
Despite a lot of issues regarding optimization, the game is clearly much better-looking than the original.Launch delayswere causing frustration, but now that the game is here, it looks like they were for the best. The developer team has already stated that optimizing the game is a priority and the surprisingly high minimum specifications won’t be like that forever, but it will take time.
The new graphics are noticeable when in orbit and viewing the scenery. There are new light reflections that add realism to surfaces, making spaceships look better than ever. Some players may find it hard to appreciate these changes because of the potential low frame rates, but the improvements are definitely there.
8The Overhauled Vehicle Assembly Building
There have been 350 new and improved parts added to the game, including a capsule that can hold five Kerbals. The overhauled vehicle assembly building (VAB) also allows players to change the color of individual pieces of their designs. This opens up a lot more customization optionsthanKSP1.
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The overall feel of the new VAB is very clean and satisfying to work with. The game developers wanted players to have an easier time whencreating something, without adding a button that would do everything for the player. This goal has definitely been achieved, as the new VAB is ultra-efficient and makes everything easier.
7Tutorials
One big change that most players will immediately notice is the new tutorial system. The animated tutorials provide a more engaging way to learn the game, replacing old text boxes. The game’s creative lead Nate Simpson has spoken out about hoping the existing community reaches out and helps newer players, but the tutorial is the game’s way of integrating new Kerbonauts.
One fun thing about the tutorials is that players are actually learning about real rocket science. It may be basic rocket science, but it’s rocketscience nonetheless! The four tutorial missions will give players a great platform to build upon. These tutorials will even benefit veteran players and offer a glimpse into what the game could be post-early access.
6Multiplayer
Although it isn’t here just yet, multiplayer is confirmed and will be coming to the game later down the road. From the multiplayer section of the website, the game seems to hint that there will be elements of friendly competition, or unfriendly aspects to the game. These may include being able to start or join rival space agencies, and race against friends.
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As multiplayer will be a big draw for some players, it is nice to see this in the pipeline. Even though it is some way off, it gives players a chance to learn the game before taking on their friends.
5Multiplayer Time Warp
The time warp feature makes large-distance traveling much easier by adding the maneuver planner. Being able to accelerate and see the plan in greater detail means there is less work for the player to do in terms of calculating the procedure.
But the biggest challenge for the developers is how they will implement time warping with the new multiplayer feature coming toKSP2. It means the developers will have to solve any interactions between players and their ships if they are atdifferent points in time.
4New Environments
New to the game is unprecedented diversity in the planetary bodies. Each of the planets and environments is attempting to be different and with added realism. The developers have added clouds and atmospheric features that layer together to make a more immersive experience.
The increased variety in each environment means more reasons to travel and explore. Coming with all-new terrain and more detailed features, each planet adds a touch of variety to the game. Alongside the visuals, there are also significant changes to the soundtracks that add to the unique vibe of each planet.
3Soundtrack
An updated soundtrack is the perfect companion to updated graphics. To make the most of an atmospheric game, a lot of work needs to go into the soundtrack. WithKSP2, players have been spoiled.
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Each planet will have its own ambiance thanks to personalized music. The layering will mean players can seek out each planet and enjoy a different theme. Although, some players have pointed out that the heroic music levels can be quite jarring and would prefer a more subtle approach.
2Updated UI
The new UI attempts to cut down on the time spent on tedious activities. One big drive forKSP2seems to be simplifying what doesn’t need to be complicated and cleaning up the UI. This means that players can understand the game more and spend more time creating. Adding simple features, like the sizes of each part, makes it easier to piece together a creation.
One of the biggest changes is to the flight navigation system. The Navigation ball has been moved to the bottom left of the screen, though it can be adjusted. It also has more detail to it, creating a single space where a lot of information can be gained. The throttle, heading, altitude meter, and much more are tucked away with the Nav ball.
1New Planets
As mentioned as part of theinterstellar traveladdition, new planets are added to spice up the variety from the original game. Listed on theKerbal Space Program 2website are Charr, Ovin, Rask, and Rusk. But there are potentially a lot more to come.
Ovin is an Earth-esque planet with a big difference: it is a ringed planet. Adding a ringed planet means that for once, players will be able to see what being on a surface of a ringed planet is like. Rask and Rusk seem to be closely positioned with odd gravitational pulls that could make landing tricky. Charr looks like a flame-scarred Mars that has been in the oven too long. Being the closest to the sun, it’s no surprise that the heat is ramped up.
Kerbal Space Program 2is already available in Early Access for PC.
