Obsidian expands with 'Grounded 2' due to space limits

Mountable Insects: The Driving Force Behind Grounded 2

One of the standout new features in Obsidian's upcoming survival sequel Grounded 2 is the ability to ride insects like mounts - a feature fans have been requesting for years. This insect-riding mechanic (playfully dubbed "Buggies" by developers) represents a key reason Obsidian chose to develop a full sequel rather than expand the original game.

Technical Constraints Paved the Way for a Sequel

The original Grounded, developed for Xbox One hardware, hit technical limitations that prevented significant expansions. "We started Grounded 1 on the original Xbox One," explains executive producer Marcus Morgan. "We were literally running out of memory to add new content while maintaining that seamless immersion the game requires."

The shift to Unreal Engine 5 for Grounded 2 allows for both greater scale and new gameplay mechanics like riding creatures. "With mounted travel changing movement speed and traversal, we needed to completely rethink level design from the ground up," Morgan adds. "That's why Grounded 2 features a dramatically expanded world."

Creative Partnerships Fuel Development

Obsidian has partnered with Eidos Montreal (Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy) for co-development. Morgan describes the collaboration as ideal, noting many Eidos developers were passionate Grounded fans who helped shape the sequel's story direction.

Early Access Approach Mirrors Original Game's Success

Grounded 2 will follow a similar early access model to its predecessor, launching initially on Xbox and PC with potential platform expansions later. While no PlayStation or Switch versions are currently planned, Morgan emphasizes the team's commitment to cross-platform play. "Our motto is 'ride together, survive together' - we always want to reach the widest possible audience."

The development team plans to refine the game through early access feedback before considering its full release and potential post-launch expansions. "We've built Grounded 2 to be far more expandable than the original," Morgan reveals, "but we'll let player response guide our future decisions."