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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, PlayStation 5, 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 are divided on the story of Planet Coaster 2. While some praise its structured career mode and the introduction of the Coastonians, most reviewers deem the narrative forgettable and poorly executed, describing it as a frustrating tutorial rather than a compelling experience. The consensus? The game’s attempts at storytelling miss the mark, failing to enhance gameplay meaningfully.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

33%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

33%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

33%

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

The reviews for the story aspect of Planet Coaster 2 reveal a few positive elements that critics have highlighted. For instance, Movies Games and Tech appreciated the structured journey offered by the career mode, which spans five chapters and includes engaging missions alongside a diverse cast of characters. Similarly, Areajugones found the narrative in the Career mode to be surprisingly entertaining, successfully guiding players through the complexities of the game. TheSixthAxis also noted the introduction of the Coastonians, an ancient race that adds a fun and accessible narrative drive to the gameplay, suggesting that there are moments where the story attempts to elevate the overall experience. However, the majority of reviewers expressed significant criticisms regarding the game's narrative. TheXboxHub found the attempt to inject lore into the gameplay to be lacking, while Digitally Downloaded described the story mode as both "bonkers and forgettable," primarily serving as a tutorial rather than a compelling narrative. Gamers Heroes echoed this sentiment by labeling the campaign as frustrating and exhausting, with repetitive mission objectives that detract from enjoyment. Additionally, GameWatcher and PC Games criticized the lack of an engaging narrative, with the latter emphasizing that the story serves merely as a backdrop for gameplay, featuring cringe-worthy characters that diminish the experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Planet Coaster 2 does attempt to incorporate a narrative element, it largely falls short of providing a meaningful or engaging story. Many reviewers, including IGN France and PC Games, highlighted that the campaign functions more as a tutorial than a captivating narrative experience, leading to frustration and a sense of repetitiveness. While some critics like Areajugones and TheSixthAxis found redeeming qualities in the narrative elements, the prevailing opinion suggests that the story lacks depth and innovation, ultimately failing to enhance the gameplay in a significant way.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Planet Coaster 2 impresses with extensive customization, innovative features like water parks, and a rewarding career mode, earning praise for its design and building mechanics. However, it faces criticism for simplified management systems, a steep learning curve, and a cumbersome user interface. While it’s a strong sequel that appeals to both casual and dedicated players, there are key areas needing improvement. Overall, it’s a worthy addition to the theme park simulation genre.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

65%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

35%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Planet Coaster 2 has garnered a largely positive reception, with many reviewers praising its extensive customization and creative freedom. Critics like Metro GameCentral and Multiplayer.it highlight the game's focus on design and building, noting the improved path-building engine and intuitive controls that enhance the user experience. The introduction of new features, such as water parks and advanced coaster mechanics, has been well-received, with critics like TheXboxHub and Push Square emphasizing the depth and complexity these additions bring to the gameplay. Furthermore, the career mode is often described as engaging and substantial, providing players with meaningful objectives, while the sandbox mode allows for limitless creativity, appealing to players who enjoy experimenting with park design. However, the game does face criticism, particularly regarding its management mechanics and user interface. Several reviewers, including Xbox Tavern and Digitally Downloaded, point out that while the gameplay offers a rich experience, the management aspects can feel simplified or even superficial, lacking the depth that some players might expect from a simulation game. The learning curve is also a common concern, with critics like But Why Tho? and GameGrin mentioning unclear objectives and cumbersome controls that can detract from the overall enjoyment. Additionally, the UI navigation has been described as tedious by critics such as GamingBolt and PlayStation Universe, which can hinder the fluidity of gameplay. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Planet Coaster 2 successfully builds upon its predecessor with innovative features and extensive customization options, appealing to both casual and dedicated players. While the game excels in providing creative freedom and engaging gameplay modes, it struggles with some management complexities and interface issues that may frustrate users. Critics like GameSpew and Shacknews encapsulate this sentiment, acknowledging the game's potential while also recognizing the areas where it falls short. Ultimately, Planet Coaster 2 is seen as a worthy addition to the theme park simulation genre, albeit with room for improvement in certain aspects of gameplay.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Planet Coaster 2 impresses with its vibrant graphics and artistic design, earning praise for detailed environments and enhanced water features. Critics highlight its immersive visuals and customization options, but note issues like shaky buildings and limited thematic diversity. Overall, it’s a visually engaging sequel that raises the bar for theme park simulations, appealing to both fans and newcomers despite minor flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

81%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

19%

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 garnered a largely positive reception from critics, who praise the game's vibrant and colorful aesthetic. Reviewers from outlets like ZTGD and GameSpew highlight the impressive detail and artistic flair present in the park environments, with the latter noting the enhancement of water features, such as pools and flumes, which significantly boost the visual appeal. Metro GameCentral and SomosXbox also commend the cartoonish style that is characteristic of theme park simulations, emphasizing the game's decent overall graphics and the extensive customization options that allow players to create unique and visually stunning parks. Critics like Movies Games and Tech and Multiplayer.it further reinforce this sentiment, lauding the superb presentation, immersive lighting, and detailed animations that collectively contribute to an authentic theme park experience. However, while the overall visual design is well-received, some critics have pointed out specific shortcomings. GamingBolt mentions issues with shaky buildings and character model clipping, which detract from an otherwise polished experience. Impulsegamer also notes criticisms regarding certain elements like the paving system, suggesting that not every aspect of the visual design is flawless. Eurogamer echoes this concern by stating that, despite the impressive visuals, the game lacks distinct thematic archetypes compared to its predecessor, leading to a somewhat bland visual experience in certain areas. These critiques indicate that while the graphics are strong, there are elements that could benefit from further refinement. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Planet Coaster 2 presents a visually appealing and artistically engaging experience, with many praising the improvements made over the original game. The vibrant colors, detailed animations, and enhanced water effects are frequently highlighted as standout features, contributing to a lively and immersive park-building experience. Despite some noted shortcomings, such as minor graphical glitches and a lack of thematic diversity, the majority of reviewers, including those from IGN and Shacknews, agree that the game successfully elevates the visual standards of theme park simulations, making it a commendable sequel that appeals to both fans of the genre and newcomers alike.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Planet Coaster 2 boasts an immersive sound design and enjoyable soundtrack, with critics praising its thrilling park atmosphere and relaxing tones. While the first-person ride experience enhances the auditory immersion, some reviewers noted a lack of innovation and limited music variety compared to its predecessor. Overall, the sound design is seen as a strong point, enriching the gameplay, yet there's potential for further improvement.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

69%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

31%

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 received a generally positive reception from critics, highlighting its immersive qualities and enjoyable soundtrack. Metro GameCentral noted the "thrilling" hubbub made by park visitors, which adds to the game's atmosphere. Similarly, GamingBolt praised the soundtrack for its relaxing tones and well-executed sound effects that enhance the overall experience. Critics like Movies Games and Tech and Multiplayer.it echoed this sentiment, describing the sound design as "stellar" and "fantastic," with distinct sounds for various actions and a soothing background score that complements gameplay. The ability to experience rides in first-person view, as mentioned by But Why Tho?, further immerses players in the soundscape, making the overall auditory experience a highlight of the game. However, some critics pointed out areas where the sound design and music could have been improved or lacked innovation. ZTGD specifically mentioned that the sound design is similar to the previous game, indicating a lack of significant changes or advancements. Cubed3 also noted that while the sound design is excellent, the music selection feels limited. Eurogamer and Gamer.nl provided positive remarks but failed to elaborate on specific aspects of the sound design, which may leave some players wanting more detailed insights into the audio experience. This lack of depth in certain reviews suggests that while the sound is generally well-received, there may be room for improvement in terms of variety and innovation. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Planet Coaster 2 offers a solid auditory experience that enhances the gameplay, with notable strengths in sound design and music. While some critics like Movies Games and Tech and Multiplayer.it celebrated the immersive qualities and distinct sounds, others like ZTGD and Cubed3 pointed out areas where the game could have pushed boundaries further. Despite these critiques, the majority of reviewers agree that the soundtrack and sound effects contribute positively to the theme park atmosphere, making it a commendable aspect of the game.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Voice acting in Planet Coaster 2 gets mixed reviews: some praise its charm and immersive experience, while others criticize it for being annoying and distracting. Critics appreciate the engaging commentary, but many highlight "inane chatter" and cringe-worthy dialogue as major drawbacks. The divide suggests that player experiences will vary greatly based on personal tolerance for these voice acting flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

18%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

55%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

27%

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

The voice acting in Planet Coaster 2 has received a mix of positive feedback from several critics, highlighting its potential to enhance the gaming experience. For instance, Movies Games and Tech praised the voice cast for providing "informative and encouraging commentary," which enriches the creative aspects of the game. Similarly, GameGrin noted that the engaging voice acting and dialogue in Career Mode help endear players to the characters while teaching game basics. Critics like TheSixthAxis also appreciated the light-hearted commentary from characters like Oswald B Thompson and Eugene, contributing to a cozy atmosphere. Additionally, GamesHub emphasized that the fully-voiced campaign adds to the immersive experience, suggesting that there are elements of charm and engagement within the voice acting. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the voice acting that cannot be overlooked. TheXboxHub expressed concerns about "inane chatter" from characters that could detract from the overall experience. IGN echoed this sentiment, providing negative feedback specifically on the dialogue in Career Mode. Furthermore, PC Games described the voice acting as "annoying and cringe-worthy," indicating that it negatively impacts gameplay. Push Square mentioned that while the characters are fully voiced, some personalities may come off as grating, which suggests inconsistency in the quality of the voice performances. This divergence in opinion indicates that while some aspects of the voice acting are well-received, others fall short of expectations. Overall, the consensus among critics regarding the voice acting in Planet Coaster 2 is mixed, with a clear divide between those who appreciate its charm and those who find it lacking. While critics like Movies Games and Tech and GameGrin highlight the engaging and immersive qualities of the voice cast, others such as IGN and PC Games point out significant drawbacks in dialogue quality and character interactions. This dichotomy suggests that the voice acting may resonate differently with players, depending on their tolerance for the perceived shortcomings and their appreciation for character-driven narratives. Ultimately, the voice acting in Planet Coaster 2 appears to be a polarizing element of the game, with both commendable performances and notable flaws that shape the overall player experience.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Planet Coaster 2 impresses with solid technical performance across platforms like PS5 and Xbox Series X, but suffers from persistent bugs, UI issues, and optimization problems on all systems. Critics praise its gameplay and visuals but highlight the need for improvements. Hope remains for future patches, as the developer has a history of addressing such issues.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

15%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

76%

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 across various gaming platforms, there are notable positives for each. On the Xbox Series X, critics like SomosXbox commend the game for its stable performance, highlighting reduced popping and effective ray tracing. Metro GameCentral also appreciates the smooth gameplay experience, particularly with the gamepad, despite some minor camera issues. On the PlayStation 5, reviewers such as Movies Games and Tech note a significant improvement, maintaining a stable 60fps during gameplay, while GameSpew echoes that the game performs well across PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC. For PC players, the sentiment is generally positive, with several critics, including Vandal and TechRadar Gaming, praising the game’s optimization for a range of hardware, resulting in smooth performance even on lower-end machines. However, there are several negatives that critics have pointed out for each platform. On Xbox Series X, Xbox Tavern mentions UI issues and sluggish performance that detracts from navigation, while TheXboxHub highlights limitations in multiplayer mode, suggesting technical constraints. For the PS5, GamingBolt and PlayStation Universe raise concerns about annoying bugs and significant control issues that hinder the overall experience. Similarly, on PC, multiple critics, including COGconnected and Gameliner, report serious optimization issues, including crashes, freezes, and low frame rates, with Power Unlimited noting interface problems that affect gameplay. The overall consensus among critics suggests that while Planet Coaster 2 showcases strong technical performance, particularly on the PS5 and Xbox Series X, it is marred by various issues across all platforms. Critics agree that the game has solid gameplay mechanics and visual appeal, but many express concerns about bugs, UI navigation, and optimization that need addressing. As Player 2 suggests, the developer has a good history of fixing bugs, which may provide hope for future patches to enhance the gaming experience. Overall, while the foundation is promising, the technical performance of Planet Coaster 2 requires further refinement to meet the expectations of its player base.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Planet Coaster 2 scores high on replay value with its diverse modes and creative sandbox, allowing limitless park design. Critics praise its community features and engaging missions, but some raise concerns about a lack of challenge, bugs, and steep learning curves that could hinder long-term engagement. Overall, it’s a rich, varied experience favored by creators and collaborators, despite areas needing improvement.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

60%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

38%

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 predominantly positive, with many critics highlighting the extensive creative possibilities and diverse gameplay modes available to players. Reviewers such as Metro GameCentral and SomosXbox emphasize the appeal of the money-free sandbox mode, which allows for limitless creativity in park design. The inclusion of various modes like Franchise, Career, and Sandbox, coupled with features like community sharing and user-generated content, enhances the replayability, making it enjoyable for both newcomers and seasoned players. Critics like GameSpew and Multiplayer.it also point out the fun missions and challenges that add depth to the gameplay, while the integration of a Workshop feature is praised for providing additional content and variety. However, some critics express concerns that may hinder long-term engagement with the game. Digitally Downloaded notes that the lack of challenge could affect replayability, while GamingBolt mentions missing features and bugs that detract from the overall experience. Others, like Gameliner and Eurogamer, point out that while there are various modes to explore, limited content and frustrating mechanics might impede the game's longevity. Additionally, the steep learning curve mentioned by GameGrin could deter new players from fully enjoying the game, suggesting that while there is potential for replayability, it may not be accessible to everyone. The overall consensus among critics is that Planet Coaster 2 offers significant replay value through its diverse modes and creative tools, with many praising the sandbox mode as a standout feature. Critics like IGN and TechRadar Gaming highlight the game's potential for continuous engagement through community content and the ability to build and share parks. Despite some criticisms regarding the depth of management and technical issues, the majority of reviewers agree that the game provides a rich and varied experience that encourages players to return and experiment with their park designs. Overall, while there are areas for improvement, the replay value of Planet Coaster 2 is seen as strong, particularly for those who enjoy creativity and collaboration in gaming.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

69%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

28%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding Planet Coaster 2 is largely positive, with many critics praising its enhancements over its predecessor and its position as a leading theme park simulation game. Reviewers like Metro GameCentral and SomosXbox commend the game for maintaining the franchise's reputation while addressing previous weaknesses, offering a cheerful atmosphere and a rewarding building experience. Critics such as GameSpew and Shacknews highlight the game's stunning visuals, deep customization options, and engaging gameplay, which collectively contribute to a highly enjoyable experience. Additionally, the introduction of new features, including water attractions and improved management tools, has been well-received, with many reviewers noting that it expands the creative possibilities for players. However, several criticisms have emerged regarding Planet Coaster 2, particularly concerning its interface and overall depth. Critics like Digitally Downloaded and GamingBolt express that the game feels more like a DLC rather than a full-fledged sequel, citing a lack of refinement and depth in management gameplay. Other reviewers, such as PlayStation Universe and COGconnected, mention frustrating controls and technical issues that hinder the overall experience. While many acknowledge the game's creative potential, others, including Gamer.nl and GamesHub, point out that it struggles with economic management and can be overwhelming for newcomers due to its complexity. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Planet Coaster 2 is a commendable sequel that successfully builds upon the foundation of its predecessor, offering significant improvements and a rich simulation experience. While there are notable areas for improvement, particularly in user interface and management depth, the game is generally regarded as a worthwhile investment for fans of the genre. Critics like GLHF on Sports Illustrated and TechRadar Gaming encapsulate this sentiment, noting that the game not only enhances the original's strengths but also presents a joyful and creative outlet for players, making it a highly recommended title in the simulation gaming landscape.

TL;DR

Planet Coaster 2 garners positive reviews for its vibrant atmosphere, stunning visuals, and expanded customization that enhance the theme park simulation experience. Critics praise its improvements over the original but note issues with interface, depth, and technical glitches that make it feel like a DLC rather than a full sequel. Despite these drawbacks, it’s seen as a solid investment for fans, offering a joyful and creative playground.

MONSTER

Reviews

74 reviews found

100

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Nov 11, 2024