Very solid sequel even with the bugs at launch, multiplayer remains the bright spots for this series.

Buggy launch but a solid game. Retains the core gameplay and adds more depth to it.

A very well designed strategy game which is especially fascinating for its creative approach to time-based simultaneous strategy. It is a pioneer in its style of gameplay, with very few similar titles appearing ever since the release of Mode7's first entry in the series. Individual matches present very unique challenges which fully engage player attention and require lots of complex decision making. These matches are strengthened by their variety, as the game is designed in such a way as for the randomly generated scenarios to have a considerable impact on the sort of problem solving necessary for the scene. The way the strategies of the game are learned is also extremely individualized, allowing personal value systems in general strategic philosophy to be just as valid as others, such that many unique and creative approaches can be taken to the game. The game launched with a very strong multiplayer community, and the very robust asynchronous multiplayer system was my personal main attraction to the game. Frozen Synapse 2 can be played on very unconventional schedules due to this element, making it a perfect opportunity to have in depth and meaningful multiplayer experiences when time otherwise might not permit. Furthermore, the multiplayer queuing system and available gameplay modes provide a very solid entry mechanism to multiplayer matches, requiring little effort on the part of the user. In strict comparison to its predecessor, Frozen Synapse 2 has a considerably improved quality of life in terms of a streamlined UI and more meaningful controls. Additionally, greater unit variety and enhanced terrain generation allow for vastly more challenges in strategic thinking, as opposed to the original where matches tended to be more consistent and similar to each other. As Frozen Synapse often times comes down to very precise moments, a few basic mechanics such as the targeting diamond, move-while-fire, and simultaneous kills reduce a lot of the strain of trying to perfect minutia on a tiny scale. Overall, Frozen Synapse 2 is an incredibly fun experience which delivers a unique style of gameplay which is very successful at creating an engaging strategic experience.