In the vast landscape of video game releases in 2025, one title unexpectedly captured the attention of a seasoned gamer who typically shies away from multiplayer experiences: Grounded 2. This game, a sequel to a beloved survival crafter, managed to break through a two-decade-long preference for solo play, earning a special commendation for its ability to transform a personal aversion into genuine enjoyment. While not necessarily the most hours-logged or most-loved title, its impact on the author's gaming habits marks it as a truly distinctive entry.
Over the past year, the author engaged with 32 newly released games, ranging from brief performance tests to extensive playtime. Among these, Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 commanded over 100 hours, yet it was Grounded 2 that left the most profound impression. This is particularly surprising given the author's self-professed dislike for multiplayer games, embracing a philosophy of 'single-player all the way' to control pace, style, and gameplay without external interference. This conviction stemmed from years of finding co-op, MMO, PvE, and PvP modes to be less appealing.
The original Grounded laid the groundwork for this shift, clocking in around 110 hours of gameplay for the author. This initial foray into the series, despite personal reservations about its multiplayer nature, proved to be an enjoyable experience. The sequel continued this trend, and alongside Peak and Split Fiction, became one of three multiplayer games in 2025 that the author genuinely savored. A crucial element in this newfound appreciation was the shared experience with family members, which fostered a unique dynamic not found in other multiplayer titles.
Grounded 2 distinguishes itself with an exceptional sense of adventure. It neither penalizes nor excessively rewards players for choosing between solo exploration or group combat. Instead, the game prioritizes fun, encouraging players to discover new areas, share laughter, frights, and exclamations of awe at the in-game creatures. The game's early access status, with a full release anticipated in late 2026 or later, is also viewed positively. This development model allows for periodic content updates, drawing players back to explore, craft, and battle anew, providing a steady stream of engaging experiences.
Ultimately, Grounded 2 stands out for its unexpected success in converting a dedicated single-player enthusiast into someone who can appreciate the communal aspects of gaming. This achievement alone signifies the game's unique appeal and its capacity to reshape long-held gaming preferences. The author, while humorously maintaining a long-standing belief in the solitary nature of gaming, acknowledges the significant influence Grounded 2 has had, hinting at a potential, albeit unlikely, full conversion to multiplayer gaming in the future.
