The original Moonlighter from 11-Bit Studios provided a bit of innocent charm when it released a while back. But, as it continues its progress in Early Access, Moonlighter 2: The Endless Vault has made significant progress on the formula. And it’s one that fans of both roguelikes and shop management won’t want to miss.
That’s right, you do both in this sequel. First you set out to defeat enemies in awesome roguelike combat scenarios. But then you go and sell some of the wares you pick up in the heat of battle to others, in an effort to keep your shop on the up-and-up. It sounds like a weary balance, but the developers did a magnificent job keeping each end balanced.
Of course, it helps that the gameplay is excellent. Each combat scenario was a lot of fun to get into, and the management tools are relatively easy to handle. Plus there are situations where you can really step up to the challenge – in each case – and show what you’re capable of. Plus the improvements you make over the course of the game are significant as well. Nothing beats a bigger backpack.
If you prefer pure action and none of the management stuff, maybe Moonlighter 2 isn’t your thing. But you’re missing out. This kind of teetering between two types of games is rare, especially when it’s done right. You should definitely consider throwing cash at this Endless Vault.
Moonlighter 2 Reminds You That When You Reach Bottom, The Only Way Forward is Up
So you’re not exactly off to the greatest of starts when you find yourself in the village of Tresna. You’ve got zero money and very few resources to begin with. However, that just means you need to start from scratch and build something great. 11-Bit Studios’ Moonlighter 2: The Endless Vault does just that, letting you not only become a more agile warrior, but also one heck of a shopkeeper.
The first part of the game involves combat. It’s done in an isometric roguelike set-up, where each new encounter brings opportunity. Opportunity to snag precious loot that you can turn around into items. You can store goods within your backpack for later storage, but need to have just enough to keep enemies at bay.
Then begins the shopkeeping process. It’s here that you build upon your relics and other wares in your little scenario, selling these goods to whomever might be interested. It’s up to you to read customers, score the deal, and use your cash to help Tresna flourish again.
It sounds like a tricky balance. But, thus far, the developers at Digital Sun have it right, just as it did with the original Moonlighter. The combat scenarios are fantastic, and it flows smoothly with each new encounter you take on. Plus the weapons feel like second nature, and the boss battles are actually a bit of fun, even if they are somewhat challenging.
But the shopkeeping is also great. Though obviously going at a much slower pace, there’s a great deal of strategy involved here when it comes to resources and cash. It’s not overly complicated, and you can use your smarts to help the village – and your cohorts – flourish. It requires a small bit of patience at first, but it’s a great system.
Did I also mention you can upgrade your weapons? And to solid effect, no less. Don’t be afraid to try something new, either. We found a nifty little item or two (the giant sword!) that allowed us to tear through foes like tissue paper. As you do.
Moonlighter 2 may not be all-out action like other games of this type. But the fine balance between the two game types shouldn’t be ignored.
Moonlighter 2 Lights Up the Screen With a Great Presentation
Next, let’s talk presentation. Now, Moonlighter 2: The Endless Vault is still a work in progress, based on its Early Access status. But so far, Digital Sun is crafting a wondrous sequel.
I like the fresh approach to the visuals. They’re a nice step up from the original game, with a fine use of 3D models and beautifully rendered worlds. There are hitches with the frame rate here and there, but nothing to get in the way of full-on adventure. And it works good on Steam Deck as well, so don’t let that stand in your way.
The cinematic score is pretty cool as well. It fits the vibe of the adventurer/shopkeeper theme, while also retaining a sense of adventure. Plus the sound effects rock, with lots of explosions and impactful noises.
Moonlighter 2 Might Just Light Up Your Life
Again, it’s still in development, with no word on when the final game will be ready. But Moonlighter 2: The Endless Vaultis a great work in progress thus far, taking everything from the original and vastly improving it. The two types of gameplay are catchy, and blend together better than expected. And the presentation looks very good thus far, though there’s still a few things to fix. No biggie.
Even though it’s not 100 percent action, Moonlighter 2 still has plenty going for it. Definitely worth adding to your collection of relics, if you ask me.
Thanks to 11-Bit Studios for providing us with a review code! Moonlighter 2: The Endless Vault is available now in Early Access for PC/Steam/Steam Deck and Xbox, and is also coming to PS5 and Nintendo Switch 2!
Need more indie roguelike adventure? Check out our review of Dunjungle!
