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Planet Coaster 2

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Planet Coaster 2
Item: Planet Coaster 2
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2024

GenresAdventure, Simulation, Top-Down Perspective, Strategy, Single Player, Multiplayer

AvailableNov 6, 2024

PlatformXbox Series X, PC

DeveloperFrontier Developments

Overview

Dive into the thrilling world of Planet Coaster 2! Construct the theme park of your dreams with an intuitive piece-by-piece building system, as you meticulously craft and customise every aspect of your park down to the smallest detail. From towering rollercoasters to spectacular twisting water slides, let your imagination reach new heights to delight and thrill your guests.

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Critics have mixed feelings about Planet Coaster 2's story. While some praise its attempts at narrative, with engaging elements like Coastonians and a career mode, many others find the storytelling lackluster and frustrating. Repetitive missions and cringe-worthy characters leave the majority disappointed, with the campaign mainly serving as an unsatisfying tutorial. Overall, the game struggles to deliver a compelling narrative experience that meets player expectations.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

33%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

22%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

44%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The opinions of various critics regarding the story of Planet Coaster 2 reveal a mixed bag of sentiments. On the positive side, some reviewers, such as Areajugones and TheSixthAxis, highlight that the game attempts to weave a narrative into its gameplay, particularly in the Career mode. Areajugones appreciates the surprisingly entertaining narrative that guides players through the complexities of the park management system, while TheSixthAxis praises the introduction of Coastonians, an ancient race that adds a fun and accessible narrative drive. This suggests that there are elements of creativity and engagement that some players may find enjoyable, particularly those who appreciate a narrative framework in simulation games. However, a significant number of critics express dissatisfaction with the story elements in Planet Coaster 2. TheXboxHub and GameWatcher both note the absence of an engaging narrative, with TheXboxHub stating that the attempt to inject lore falls flat. Gamers Heroes describes the campaign as frustrating and exhausting due to repetitive mission objectives, which detracts from the overall experience. Additionally, PC Games criticizes the story as unimportant and filled with cringe-worthy characters, further emphasizing a lack of depth. Critics like IGN France also point out that the campaign serves primarily as a tutorial, but is restrictive and lacking in necessary information, leading to player frustration. Overall, the consensus among critics leans towards disappointment regarding the narrative aspects of Planet Coaster 2. While some reviewers, like Areajugones and TheSixthAxis, find merit in the game's attempt to incorporate a story, the majority highlight its shortcomings. Critics such as Gamers Heroes, PC Games, and GameWatcher underscore that the narrative feels either rudimentary or unengaging, which ultimately detracts from the overall gaming experience. This suggests that while there are sparks of creativity, the execution of the story in Planet Coaster 2 may not meet the expectations of players seeking a rich narrative alongside their park management gameplay.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Planet Coaster 2 impresses with its rich customization and engaging career mode, drawing praise for its design focus and improved mechanics. However, critics warn of a steep learning curve, a complex interface, and shallow management features that may frustrate newcomers. While it excels in creativity, it may not satisfy players seeking a deeper economic simulation experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

66%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

34%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Planet Coaster 2 has received a largely positive reception from critics, highlighting its extensive customization options and engaging modes. Reviewers like Metro GameCentral and Multiplayer.it commend the game’s focus on design and building, with improved path-building mechanics and intuitive controls that enhance the player experience. The career mode is frequently praised for its depth and structure, serving as both a tutorial and a source of engaging objectives, as noted by TheXboxHub and SpazioGames. Additionally, the introduction of new features like water attractions and the ability to manage utilities adds layers of complexity and creativity, making the gameplay feel fresh and inviting for both newcomers and veterans of the genre. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the gameplay experience. Many reviewers, including Xbox Tavern and But Why Tho?, point out a steep learning curve and a complex user interface that can be overwhelming, particularly for new players. Critics like Eurogamer and GameWatcher mention that while the game offers a mix of creative freedom and management challenges, the management aspects often feel shallow and less impactful compared to its predecessor. Some reviewers, such as Gameliner and IGN, express frustration with cumbersome mechanics, particularly in path construction, which can detract from the overall enjoyment of the game. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Planet Coaster 2 successfully builds upon its predecessor with rich customization options and engaging gameplay modes, though it is marred by some usability issues and a lack of depth in management mechanics. While many players will appreciate the creative freedom offered in sandbox mode and the structured career mode, the complexity and unclear objectives can lead to frustration, as highlighted by critics like Power Unlimited and Vandal. Ultimately, the game appears to cater well to those who enjoy the creative aspects of park management but may challenge those seeking a more traditional and in-depth economic simulation experience.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Planet Coaster 2 dazzles with vibrant graphics and impressive detail, especially on Xbox Series X and PC, earning rave reviews for its stunning visuals and artistic evolution. Critics praise its cartoonish charm and customization options, but some note issues with thematic consistency, immersion, and minor bugs. Despite these shortcomings, the consensus highlights its captivating aesthetic as a strong asset to the theme park simulation genre. Overall, it’s a visually polished experience that enhances gameplay, making it a must-see for fans.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

86%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

14%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The graphics and visual design of Planet Coaster 2 have been widely praised by critics, with many noting the vibrant colors and impressive detail that enhance the overall gaming experience. Reviewers like ZTGD and Areajugones highlighted the game's stunning visuals, particularly on the Xbox Series X and PC, where the water effects and lighting have received significant commendation. Critics such as COGconnected and Multiplayer.it emphasized the improvements in animations and the overall artistic evolution from the original game, showcasing a unique and artistically pleasing design that allows for extensive customization options. The game's cartoonish style, favored by theme park simulation enthusiasts, has been noted by multiple reviewers, including Metro GameCentral and IGN Spain, who appreciate how it contributes to the game's charm and immersive environment. Despite the overall positive reception, some critics pointed out a few shortcomings in the visual design. Eurogamer mentioned that while the game is visually impressive, it lacks distinct thematic archetypes compared to its predecessor, which could lead to a somewhat bland experience. Additionally, Cubed3 noted that certain elements, like park entrances, felt less believable, which could detract from the immersion. IGN Spain also mentioned the presence of noticeable bugs that affected gameplay experience, suggesting that while the graphics are strong, they are not without their issues. Gamers Heroes pointed out that while the visuals are beautiful, they can feel detached from the simulation elements, indicating a potential disconnect between aesthetics and gameplay mechanics. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Planet Coaster 2 boasts very good graphics and visual design, with many praising the enhancements made since its predecessor. Reviewers such as Shacknews and TechRadar Gaming echoed the sentiment of improved visuals, particularly in water effects and animations, which contribute to a more polished experience. The majority of opinions reflect a strong appreciation for the game's aesthetic appeal and the creative possibilities it offers, with many critics expressing excitement about the vibrant environments and detailed animations. While there are some criticisms regarding thematic consistency and minor bugs, the overwhelming sentiment is that Planet Coaster 2 successfully delivers a visually captivating experience that enhances the theme park simulation genre.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Planet Coaster 2's sound design and music receive generally positive reviews for creating an immersive park atmosphere, with praise for engaging visitor sounds and ride effects. Critics highlight the thrilling audio experience but note a lack of evolution from the previous game and missed opportunities for a richer soundtrack. While the game's auditory environment is effective, there’s consensus on the need for more innovation and variety.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

56%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

44%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The sound design and music of Planet Coaster 2 have garnered a generally positive reception from critics, highlighting the immersive experience that the game offers. Metro GameCentral praises the "thrilling" hubbub created by park visitors, which contributes to the lively atmosphere of the game. But Why Tho? emphasizes the immersive sound design, particularly noting the alerts for in-game events and the option for first-person ride experiences, which enhance player engagement. Similarly, Multiplayer.it commends the fantastic music that enriches the overall gaming experience, while Cubed3 appreciates the excellent sound design, especially the satisfying ride effects and themed sounds, despite mentioning a limited music selection. However, there are some criticisms regarding the sound design and music in Planet Coaster 2. ZTGD points out that the sound design remains similar to the previous game, indicating a lack of significant evolution or innovation in this aspect. Gamer.nl mentions that while the music is familiar and fitting, it lacks specific details, which suggests a missed opportunity for deeper engagement with the soundtrack. Additionally, Vandal notes that while the game includes ambient music and sound effects, it does not delve into specifics about the sound design, leaving some critics wanting more detailed exploration of this element. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that while the sound design and music of Planet Coaster 2 contribute positively to the immersive theme park experience, there are areas that could benefit from further development. The general sentiment is that the game successfully creates an engaging auditory environment, as noted by Eurogamer and Multiplayer.it, but some reviewers like ZTGD and Gamer.nl feel that it does not significantly advance from its predecessor. This mixed feedback suggests that while the game excels in certain auditory aspects, there is room for improvement and innovation in both sound design and musical variety.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

The voice acting in Planet Coaster 2 sparks mixed reviews. While some critics like GameGrin and GamesHub praise its engaging and immersive qualities, others such as TheXboxHub and PC Games find it tedious and cringe-worthy. This divide suggests that the voice performances may appeal to players who enjoy character-driven narratives, but could detract for those less inclined toward dialogue-heavy experiences. Overall, it’s a polarizing element that shapes player enjoyment.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

14%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

43%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

43%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in Planet Coaster 2 has garnered a mix of responses from critics, with some highlighting its positive aspects. For instance, GameGrin praised the engaging voice acting and dialogue in Career Mode, noting that it helps endear players to the characters while also teaching the game's basics. Similarly, GamesHub emphasized that the fully-voiced campaign adds depth to the immersive experience, suggesting that the voice acting contributes positively to the overall enjoyment of the game. TheSixthAxis also noted the light-hearted commentary provided by characters like Oswald B Thompson and Eugene, which enhances the cozy atmosphere of the game, indicating that there are elements of charm and warmth in the voice performances. However, not all feedback is favorable. TheXboxHub criticized the voice acting for including "inane chatter" that detracts from the gaming experience, suggesting that the dialogue can become tedious. IGN echoed this sentiment by providing negative feedback on the dialogue in Career Mode, indicating that it may not resonate well with all players. Furthermore, PC Games described the voice acting as "annoying and cringe-worthy," which they felt negatively impacted the overall experience. This sentiment is somewhat mirrored by Vandal, who acknowledged the presence of good voice acting in Spanish but noted that it does not significantly stand out, hinting at a lack of memorable performances. Overall, the consensus among critics reveals a divided opinion on the voice acting in Planet Coaster 2. While some reviewers, like GameGrin and GamesHub, appreciate the engaging and immersive qualities of the voice performances, others, including TheXboxHub and PC Games, find aspects of it to be off-putting or lacking in quality. This dichotomy suggests that the voice acting may appeal to certain players who enjoy character-driven narratives, while others may find it detracts from their experience. Ultimately, the voice acting in Planet Coaster 2 appears to be a polarizing element that could influence players' enjoyment depending on their preferences for dialogue and character interaction.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Planet Coaster 2 offers a mixed experience; praised for stable performance on Xbox Series X and decent optimization on PC, yet marred by UI issues and multiplayer limitations on Xbox. The PC version faces significant optimization challenges and bugs, impacting gameplay. Critics agree it needs further polish to reach its potential, despite showing promise.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

15%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

77%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

In analyzing the technical performance of Planet Coaster 2, the opinions from critics reveal a mixed bag of experiences across different platforms. On the Xbox Series X, several reviewers commend the game's stable performance, with SomosXbox highlighting the reduced popping and effective ray tracing, suggesting a well-optimized experience. Metro GameCentral and ZTGD note that the game generally plays smoothly, especially with a gamepad, which enhances the overall user experience. On the PC side, there are also positive remarks, particularly from IGN, who found the game to perform well even at 4K resolution, and TechRadar Gaming, who praised its smooth operation on lower-end hardware. Additionally, Vandal noted the game’s optimization for a range of machines, indicating that it can cater to a broad audience. However, the negative aspects of Planet Coaster 2 cannot be overlooked, especially on the Xbox Series X. Critics like Xbox Tavern pointed out UI issues and sluggish performance, which detracts from navigation and responsiveness. Furthermore, TheXboxHub raised concerns about the limitations in multiplayer mode, hinting at potential technical constraints. On the PC front, the situation appears more problematic, with COGconnected reporting significant optimization issues, including choppy performance and frequent crashes. Other reviewers, such as Gameliner and Power Unlimited, echoed similar sentiments regarding bugs and interface problems that hinder gameplay, suggesting that the game is in need of further polish and updates. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Planet Coaster 2 shows promise with some commendable technical aspects, it suffers from notable performance issues across both platforms. The Xbox Series X experiences some limitations in UI and multiplayer functionality, while the PC version grapples with optimization challenges and bugs that affect gameplay. Critics like Eurogamer and Player 2 acknowledge that the game has improved since its predecessor but still requires additional patches and updates to fully realize its potential. As a result, while the game offers a solid foundation, it is clear that both platforms have room for improvement in technical performance.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Planet Coaster 2 is praised for its extensive creative options and diverse gameplay modes, especially the money-free sandbox mode, boosting its replay value. Critics appreciate features like Franchise mode and extensive customization, encouraging community sharing. However, concerns about shallow management mechanics, frustrating interfaces, and a steep learning curve could limit long-term engagement for some players. Overall, despite these criticisms, the game's potential for updates and community interaction keeps optimism high for its longevity in the gaming scene.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

65%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

32%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of Planet Coaster 2 is largely positive, as many critics highlight the game's extensive creative possibilities and diverse gameplay modes. Reviewers like Metro GameCentral and Xbox Tavern emphasize the appeal of the money-free sandbox mode, which allows players to unleash their creativity without financial constraints. The introduction of Franchise mode, noted by Areajugones and Cubed3, adds a competitive edge and encourages community sharing, further enhancing replayability. Critics also appreciate the game's extensive customization options, with multiple modes such as career, sandbox, and challenge providing varied experiences that cater to both new and experienced players, as highlighted by PC Gamer and GameGrin. However, there are some criticisms regarding the game's replay value. A few reviewers, such as COGconnected and Eurogamer, express concerns about the lack of depth in management mechanics, which may limit long-term engagement. Additionally, some critics, like Gameliner, point out frustrating interface issues and limited content that could hinder replayability. The steep learning curve mentioned by GameGrin may deter newcomers, making it challenging for them to fully enjoy the game's potential. Critics like Gameliner and Eurogamer suggest that while the game has a lot to offer, certain mechanics and limitations could impact the overall experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Planet Coaster 2 provides significant replay value through its creative modes and community features. The sandbox mode is frequently highlighted as a standout aspect, allowing players to experiment freely and create unique parks, as noted by IGN and TechRadar Gaming. Despite some concerns about management depth and interface issues, the game's potential for future updates and community engagement keeps many reviewers optimistic about its longevity. Critics like Multiplayer.it and Shacknews affirm that the combination of various modes, including cooperative play and user-generated content, makes Planet Coaster 2 a promising title for fans of the genre, ensuring that players will have ample opportunities to revisit and enjoy the game.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

68%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

29%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The overall sentiment regarding Planet Coaster 2 from various critics is largely positive, with many praising its enhancements over the original game. Reviewers like Metro GameCentral and SomosXbox highlight the game’s cheerful vibe and rewarding building experience, emphasizing that it maintains the franchise's reputation as the best theme park simulator available. Critics such as Areajugones and TheSixthAxis commend the game's depth, creativity, and improved management systems, noting that it provides a satisfying experience for fans of the genre. The extensive customization options and new features, including water park attractions and improved tools, are frequently mentioned as significant advancements that enhance the gameplay, making it a highly recommended title for both new and returning players. However, despite the many positives, Planet Coaster 2 is not without its flaws. Several critics, including COGconnected and Eurogamer, point out issues with the user interface and technical performance, which detract from the overall experience. The game has been described as having a frustrating interface and a lack of polish, leading some reviewers like Gamer.nl and Gameliner to feel it lacks depth in management gameplay compared to its predecessor. Critics such as GameWatcher and IGN also echo concerns about the onboarding process for new players, suggesting that while the game excels in creativity, it may be challenging for those unfamiliar with the genre. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Planet Coaster 2 is a worthy sequel that builds upon its predecessor with numerous improvements and new features, making it a standout title in the theme park simulation genre. While many reviewers acknowledge the game’s shortcomings, particularly regarding interface and management depth, the overall sentiment leans towards a positive reception. Critics like Shacknews and TechRadar Gaming encapsulate this sentiment by describing it as a fantastic entry with minor issues, reinforcing the idea that despite its flaws, Planet Coaster 2 is an enjoyable and creative experience that fans of the genre will appreciate.

TL;DR

Planet Coaster 2 is a largely praised sequel that enhances its predecessor with cheerful gameplay, extensive customization, and new features like water park attractions. Critics commend its depth and building experience, solidifying its position as the top theme park simulator. However, issues with the user interface and onboarding process have been noted, leaving some reviewers feeling it lacks management depth. Overall, it’s a recommended title for both newcomers and fans, despite some minor flaws.

MONSTER

Reviews

69 reviews found

100

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