Combining Manor Lords with Fallout, hidden-gem strategy game is about to hit 1.0

The building system is more intricate. The map exploration is tougher and more hands on. And now, by popular demand, Endzone 2 is bringing back raiders. Since it first arrived via Steam Early Access in August 2024, Gentlymad's survival and strategy hybrid has been through dozens of transformative changes. In some cases, like the more threatening radiation zones, sandstorms, and viral outbreaks introduced in the Dangers and Progression update, the game has gotten tougher than its predecessor. Other changes, like a revised UI and rebalancing passes, have made it more welcoming to newcomers. Now, as shared exclusively with PCGamesN, Endzone 2 is about to hit its biggest milestone yet. A spiritual cross between Frostpunk, Manor Lords, Cities Skylines, and Fallout, Endzone 2's 1.0 launch is imminent.

Given the premise - you're charged with rebuilding human society in the aftermath of the apocalypse - Endzone 2's early months were appropriately tough. The first Endzone remains one of most underappreciated city-building games on Steam. The sequel, for a lot of players, deviates too strongly from the fundamental strengths of the original, incorporating elements of factory simulators and more quest-driven strategy games like Anno. But the last 11 months have marked a gradual comeback for Endzone 2. Over nine (soon to be ten) substantial updates, Gentlymad has fought hard to find the sweet spot between new ideas and series traditions. Now, PCGamesN gets an exclusive look at the 1.0 launch.

One of the greatest threats in the original game, raiders finally arrive in Endzone 2. Until now, your vehicular expeditions into the wasteland have been motivated by the hunt for new building sites and extra resources. Now, you need to use your fleet to defend yourself from attacks and to safeguard your trade routes. Some raiders are disorganized and ill-equipped, basically opportunistic bandits looking for a meal. Others are tough, disciplined, and armed to the teeth, and enjoy killing more than stealing.

Raiders on the Storm is the tenth major update for Endzone 2 and it arrives alongside the survival game's 1.0 launch. And there isn't long to wait: the Endzone 2 1.0 release date is set for Thursday July 24. If you want to give it a shot, Gentlymad's sequel is also on sale until Thursday July 10, so you can buy it for $14.99 / £12.59. Just go here.

Otherwise, try some of the best RTS games, or maybe the best 4X games on PC right now.

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