KEY POINTS

  • "Kerbal Space Program 2" features new and improved graphics and gameplay mechanics
  • The sequel will include colony building and new, next-generation ship parts to play with
  • The game will include multiplayer and mod support

The development of the sequel to the highly successful space flight simulator “Kerbal Space Program” is going smoothly, as evidenced by a new clip released by the developers showcasing a few new features that players can expect from the game.

A highlight reel was recently posted on the official “Kerbal Space Program” YouTube channel, showing off a list of technical and graphical improvements as well as some new effects and terrain generation features, which already make the sequel a better treat to the eyes than the first game.

The first major addition presented in the showcase was the inclusion of clouds within the atmosphere of the Kerbal home world of Kerbin, making the skies look and feel more immersive than before. While volumetric clouds serve as wonderful set pieces for pre-space stages, some players are worried that game performance might get severely affected by this new addition.

Next, the showcase featured terrain generation enhancements for Pol, one of the moons of the planet Jool. The surface of Pol now realistically mirrors that of known satellite bodies of our own solar system, featuring natural-looking craters and shearing cliff edges. A similar treatment was given to the Mun, one of Kerbin’s own satellites.

Lastly, the video showcased some shots of the new and improved Kerbal Space Center and its revamped structures and satellite dishes as well as a commemorative statue of the first Kerbals that reached space.

Kerbal Space Program features a realistic physics engine that accurately simulates atmospheric flight conditions
Kerbal Space Program features a realistic physics engine that accurately simulates atmospheric flight conditions Squad

“Kerbal Space Program 2” will also provide players with new systems and mechanics to play around with. Players will have access to a new generation of ship and shuttle parts that expand the limits of in-game space exploration. Additionally, players will have the ability to create lunar and interplanetary colonies that require careful physics-based construction techniques and resource management.

Multiplayer is also getting added to the game after much demand from fans, and mod support will still be fully functional and available to everyone who wants to add more content or improve upon the game’s features.

The original “Kerbal Space Program” is a charming take on the challenges of space flight that serves as a testament to humanity’s own achievements, giving players the opportunity to tackle said challenges by themselves in an extremely satisfying cycle of failure and success.

“Kerbal Space Program 2” is scheduled to release in 2022.

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