11 Bit Studios recently revealed the new gameplay trailer for Frostpunk 2. The sequel to 11 Bit’s breakout hit survival strategy game picks up 30 years after the first game. As the Steward of the post-apocalyptic city-state of New London, Frostpunk 2 sees players lead their city into a hopefully brighter future. However, not everyone agrees on what that future looks like.
Frostpunk 2 trailer focuses on New London’s political landscape
Navigating New London’s political landscape is central to Frostpunk 2. The trailer makes this immediately clear, opening with a quote from Roman historian Sallust that reads, “By union the smallest states thrive… by discord the greatest are destroyed.” A growing chorus of increasingly disgruntled voices calls for the Steward’s attention as the city emerges from the mist.
The trailer is only about two minutes long but covers the general idea of what Frostpunk 2 players should expect. The worst of the storm may have passed, but resources are still finite. As before, players must manage their citizens’ needs by providing food, shelter, heat, and medical facilities. However, unlike the first game, where players have their workers construct individual buildings, Frostpunk 2 has them zoning specialized districts. In that respect, the new game is a bit more like Sim City or Cities Skylines.
However, as the city grows, so do its needs and the demands of its people. Examples from the trailer include complaints of hunger and overcrowding and anger over the Steward’s approval of experimental medical treatments.
Citizens will also form political factions representing different visions for the city’s future. Some citizens will want the Steward to prioritize education. Others see expanding the city and reclaiming the wasteland as a top priority. Frostpunk 2 players will need to balance all these demands and concerns.
As unrest spreads, the trailer shows the Technocrat faction taking to the streets to demand equal pay for workers. However, unlike the last game, players can’t pass whatever law they want. Instead, they must seek approval from the city’s council, even pressuring them to support or oppose a new law. In the trailer, however, the vote fails, tipping the city over the edge into civil war.
