Space Engineers 2 solves power management frustration in the sandbox game sequel

Whether it's Satisfactory, Astroneer, Factorio, or No Man's Sky, managing power is one of the most important parts of sandbox games, and Space Engineers 2 is no exception. The sequel to the iconic, intergalactic Steam hit is currently in early access, and developer Keen Software reveals how its new-look batteries will allow you to much more quickly move power between your builds to ensure you've got the juice wherever you need it.

Space Engineers 2 has big shoes to fill. The original remains one of the best space games on PC, boasting an 89% positive Steam review score from nearly 100,000 respondents. Having launched into early access in January, it's still in the early stages as the studio works to deliver something worthy of our best sandbox games list; Keen calls the sequel "a very ambitious game" that will see "massive content updates" over the course of approximately three years before it's ready for launch.

Today's preview isn't as intricate as some of the automation and production-chain details we've been shown in the past few weeks, but it might feature one of the most impactful changes. Batteries are making their return as a way to store power in Space Engineers 2, but they're about to be much more versatile, thanks to their use of swappable power modules.

When you build a battery for the first time, its pre-installed cell will be charged to about the 30% mark, giving you enough power to check it works as intended, much like buying a new phone. Now, however, you can freely take out the installed power cells and swap in fully charged ones from another grid or a custom charging station. It's a simple but extremely welcome improvement.

Whether you're looking to quickly power up a remote base without long cables, need to supplement a failing or overloaded system with some backup energy, or want to carry some surplus power with you for a snappy, battery-powered build, it just got much easier. Keen Software has also been talking about combat recently, and its plan for "longer, more tactical engagements" could mean that careful battery management comes into play.

"Fights should take time - measured in minutes, not seconds," the developer explains. It wants preparation to matter, allowing players who build defenses and prepare ambushes to create "unfair local advantages." Let your power falter, however, and those carefully laid plans might quickly go awry.

Space Engineers 2 is out now on Steam in early access, priced at $29.99 / £24.99. Find it here if you're eager to get in and join its long-term journey. Keen Software notes that it plans to "gradually raise the price" as new updates and features roll out.

While we're still waiting for multiplayer to land in Space Engineers 2, you can take a look through the best co-op games available now. Whether you're playing alone or with friends, the best gaming headset will only make your experience better.

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