An incredible XCOM-like strategy game is finally getting a sequel after 9 years - the latest in a criminally slept-on series that's never seen a bad game

GamesStrategySteamWorld Heist 2An incredible XCOM-like strategy game is finally getting a sequel after 9 years - the latest in a criminally slept-on series that’s never seen a bad gameWhen you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works. GamesStrategySteamWorld Heist 2An incredible XCOM-like strategy game is finally getting a sequel after 9 years - the latest in a criminally slept-on series that’s never seen a bad gameWhen you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works. (Image credit: Thunderful) After proving themselves in darn near every genre under the sun, the devs behind the incredible SteamWorld series are finally returning to the format of their fantastic XCOM-style strategy game with a proper sequel set to launch later this year. SteamWorld Heist 2 was revealed at today’s Nintendo Indie World Showcase, and is set to hit Switch alongside PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X and S, Xbox One, and PC on August 8. Like its predecessor, this is a turn-based strategy game where you control an upgradeable crew of characters from a side-view perspective, carefully lining up your shots with ricocheting bullets to do the most damage possible to your enemies. Think XCOM mixed with Worms and you’re on the right track. The sequel takes the concept to a high seas setting, letting you control a submarine in real-time naval combat as you explore the world map in between the strategic battles. In a press release, the devs tease that the adventure will be a meaty one that offers “35+ hours of gameplay.” That’s much, much longer than the original, whichHowLongToBeatclocks in the 10-20 hour range. If you’re not familiar with the SteamWorld series, it’s worth digging into. Developer Image & Form - now under Thunderful’s indie mega-banner - has used SteamWorld to build a universe of games featuring steampunk robots across all different gaming genres. SteamWorld Dig was a Minecraft-tinged Metroidvania, SteamWorld Quest gave us a deckbuilding narrative RPG, and SteamWorld Build even brought us a full-on city-building game. Maybe the wildest thing about SteamWorld is that every single entry in the series has been good, and many of them have been excellent. Dig 2 is one of thebest Metroidvania gamesaround, and if Heist 2 - just the second direct sequel in the lineage - can make a similar level of improvements on its predecessor, we’re in for something truly special. Looking to get into thebest strategy gamesout there? You know where to click. Sign up to the GamesRadar+ Newsletter Weekly digests, tales from the communities you love, and more CATEGORIESPC GamingPS5PS4Xbox Series XXbox OneNintendoPlatformsPlayStationXbox CATEGORIES More about strategyThe devs behind “the biggest PC strategy game on the market” say their main aim is “to be everyone’s second favorite game"Forget AAA: this year, all I wanted to do was optimize my conveyor belts in SatisfactoryLatest26 years later, Codemasters' Chris Southall talks Colin McRae Rally: “We wanted to do something that was an authentic rally experience for the hardware of the time"See more latest► More about strategyThe devs behind “the biggest PC strategy game on the market” say their main aim is “to be everyone’s second favorite game"Forget AAA: this year, all I wanted to do was optimize my conveyor belts in SatisfactoryLatest26 years later, Codemasters' Chris Southall talks Colin McRae Rally: “We wanted to do something that was an authentic rally experience for the hardware of the 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Wars with a swashbuckling twist” 4Skeleton Crew review: “Perfectly captures the vibes of classic Star Wars with a swashbuckling twist” 4 Skeleton Crew review: “Perfectly captures the vibes of classic Star Wars with a swashbuckling twist” 5Creature Commandos review: “James Gunn’s heartwarming, R-rated tale about super-monsters proves that the DCU is in good hands” 5Creature Commandos review: “James Gunn’s heartwarming, R-rated tale about super-monsters proves that the DCU is in good hands” 5 Creature Commandos review: “James Gunn’s heartwarming, R-rated tale about super-monsters proves that the DCU is in good hands”