SteamWorld Heist 2 Review: Tactical Trick Shots and Pirate Shenanigans

Ah, SteamWorld. Whether it's digging through the earth in SteamWorld Dig 2 or slinging spells in SteamWorld Quest, these games never miss the mark. Thunderful Games has made a name for themselves by expertly distilling genres into approachable, charming experiences that fit right into their quirky steampunk universe. In SteamWorld Heist 2, they revisit the tactical, bullet-bouncing gameplay of the original SteamWorld Heist but with fresh twists and a compulsive XCOM-like vibe that might just be their best creation yet.

You step into the worn boots of Captain Leeway, a pirate sub commander navigating a planet-sized sea in space. The water's going bad, and your mission is to figure out why before your steambot crew runs dry. The story is lighthearted and fun, with a colorful cast of characters each bringing their own quirks and backstories. Captain Leeway, overshadowed by his legendary pirate mother, is joined by a ragtag crew, including stiff-upper-lip grenadier Wesley and sniper Daisy, who’s just thrilled to be part of the team. And let’s not forget “Crowbar,” the mercenary who values his paycheck above all else and squawks with every line of dialogue.

Unlike the first game, where you hop from star to star, Heist 2 lets you sail your submarine directly across a lush world map, uncovering hidden lagoons, dodging mines, and engaging in naval combat. The blend of exploration and tactical missions is seamless, and the game’s naval battles add a satisfying layer of arcade-style action to the mix.

But the real meat of the game lies in its tactical missions, where you'll engage in turn-based battles full of ricocheting bullets, careful movement, and tough decisions. The shooting mechanics add an element of chance, with some weapons offering aiming lasers while others rely on your instincts and a bit of luck. It’s thrilling when a well-placed shot bounces around a room, taking out multiple enemies in one go. And as your crew levels up, you can mix and match skills across classes, creating versatile soldiers capable of handling any situation.

Heist 2 goes beyond just refining the formula of its predecessor. The introduction of "cogs" allows you to customize your characters further, making each crew member feel unique and adaptable. Sure, some skills might feel more useful than others, and I found myself favoring certain classes, but the freedom to experiment keeps things fresh and exciting.

Enemies, from high seas cultists to Navy commanders, bring their own challenges, with some able to buff their allies or get in the way with their unkillable bone-reinforced bodies. Boss battles stand out as particularly entertaining, with one Admiral pulling off trick shots that make you laugh—until they take out your best bot.

While the game does have moments where activating a new group of enemies feels overwhelming, the forgiving nature of Heist 2 ensures that no mistake is ever too costly. Even if you wipe out, the game lets you adjust the difficulty on the fly, encouraging you to keep going without frustration.

The world of SteamWorld Heist 2 is full of character, from the floating pubs where you recruit new crew members and listen to shanties, to the hidden secrets tucked away in the far reaches of the map. There’s a sense of joy and craftsmanship in every corner of this game, making it a standout entry in an already stellar series.

After spending 15 hours with SteamWorld Heist 2, I’m not just enjoying the ride—I’m savoring every moment. It’s the kind of game that knows exactly what it wants to be, and delivers it with a smile. Thunderful’s toybox of steampunk delights continues to impress, and Heist 2 is yet another gem in their crown. Whether you’re a fan of the series or new to the SteamWorld universe, this is one adventure you won’t want to miss.