New Survival Game on the Horizon: Insights into the Upcoming Grounded 2 Release
Grounded 2 Launches in Early Access on Xbox Series X|S and PC
After much anticipation, Grounded 2 has finally been released in early access on July 29, 2025, simultaneously on Xbox Series X|S and PC platforms. The game, set in the year 1992, follows the story of the four original missing teens from the first game as they explore Brookhollow Park, a new and larger world than the original, built from the ground up for the current-gen Xbox Series X/S due to technical limitations of the Xbox One[1][3][5].
The gameplay of Grounded 2 remains primarily a survival game, with players scavenging materials, crafting shelters, and unlocking upgrades to survive and thrive in their shrunken state. New features include dashing, facing off against cockroaches, and the ability to ride buggies (mounts) that fight alongside the player[6]. Players will also need to manage their hunger, thirst, and stamina levels, with enemies becoming more aggressive during nighttime[7].
Co-op is a significant gameplay feature in Grounded 2, allowing players to play with up to three friends or solo[4]. Obsidian, the game's developers, have assured fans that the first Grounded will be preserved following the release of Grounded 2[2]. However, no information has been provided about a Nintendo release for Grounded 2[1].
Regarding future platform availability, all current information specifies release and support only for Xbox Series X|S and PC. No official announcements have been made about plans to release Grounded 2 on other platforms as of now[1][3]. The game's development roadmap shows a year of updates planned post-launch but does not mention expansion to additional consoles or platforms beyond Xbox and PC[2][3][4].
It is unclear when exactly Grounded 2 will have its full release. The first Grounded was released on Switch, PS4, and PS5 after being in Early Access for two years[8]. The first Grounded 2 trailer was released, showcasing a bigger setting and these new features[6]. Grounded 2 is one of the upcoming Xbox Series X games[9].
For those interested in Grounded 2, it can be wishlisted on Steam and the Microsoft Store, but pre-ordering is not currently available[10]. The story of Grounded 2 follows the characters as they explore research labs and battle massive boss bugs to unlock technology and equipment[7]. The world of Grounded 2 features new biomes such as an icy environment and a "spooky" anthill[7].
One thing to note is the return of Ominent, the company behind the kidnapping of the characters in the first Grounded, who are up to shady antics once again in Grounded 2[7]. The game was revealed during the Summer Game Fest 2025 schedule[1].
[1] "Grounded 2 Announced at Summer Game Fest 2025" - [link] [2] "Grounded 2 Development Roadmap Revealed" - [link] [3] "Grounded 2 Early Access Launch Details" - [link] [4] "Grounded 2 Co-op Gameplay Explained" - [link] [5] "Grounded 2 Available Now in Early Access" - [link] [6] "First Grounded 2 Trailer Showcases New Features" - [link] [7] "Grounded 2 Story and Gameplay Overview" - [link] [8] "First Grounded Releases on Multiple Platforms After Early Access" - [link] [9] "Grounded 2 Among Upcoming Xbox Series X Games" - [link] [10] "How to Wishlist Grounded 2" - [link]
- Players can expect Grounded 2's scavenging, crafting, and survival mechanics on Xbox Series X|S and PC, thanks to its early access release on July 29, 2025.
- Despite the anticipation, no official announcements have been made about plans to release Grounded 2 on other platforms like Nintendo, PS4, or even the upcoming Xbox Series X.
- The survival game's development roadmap hints at a year of updates following its launch, but no expansion to additional consoles is mentioned.
- Co-op gameplay allows players to explore Brookhollow Park with up to three friends, while managing their hunger, thirst, and stamina levels.
- Grounded 2's console competitors could include the PS5 and the Xbox Series X, depending on future platform announcements.
- RPG and action game enthusiasts may find glory in Grounded 2's battles against massive boss bugs and the exploration of new biomes like icy environments and spooky anthills.
- Obsidian, the game's developers, have confirmed that the first Grounded will be preserved post-Grounded 2 release, but no details about the game's artificial-intelligence features have been disclosed yet.
- Gadget lovers might enjoy the addition of new features such as dashing, facing off against cockroaches, and riding buggies that fight alongside players.
- In Grounded 2, the characters once again face the shady company Ominent, which was responsible for their kidnapping in the first game.
- Gamers interested in Grounded 2 can watch trailers, wishlist the game on Steam and Microsoft Store, but pre-ordering is currently not available for this adventurous RPG that's set to bring more thrilling entertainment to TV screens.
