Rate top gamesCurious Expedition 2 is a remarkable success: an accessible, generous, and deeply endearing narrative roguelike, carried by an art direction that makes it instantly recognisable. Maschinen-Mensch delivers a work that fully deserves its reputation, and will reward any player curious about adventure and exploration.
Each expedition sends you to a procedurally generated island, managing mental health, supplies, and relations with locals. Random events offer juicy moral dilemmas with real consequences. Combat is light – functional but lacking strategic depth – which is fine, as the game's heart lies elsewhere. Replayability is excellent: the variety of explorers and islands ensures every run feels different. The universe is the real standout: it doesn't just reproduce Victorian adventure but questions it, with indigenous peoples as genuine actors whose reactions matter. The episodic narratives give structure and motivation to progress.
Visually, it's a triumph: a magnificent oil‑painting style evoking 19th‑century adventure books, with fluid animations and an exotic, adventurous soundtrack. Technically flawless on all platforms. The only flaws are light combat and slight repetition in island structures over the long run.
Highly recommended for anyone who loves adventure, exploration, and smart storytelling.
Full French review:
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