After waiting years for a sequel, I finally got hands-on time with Alien: Isolation 2. Stepping back onto a Xenomorph infested planet immediately brought back memories of playing the original, along with the dread of knowing just how hard a time I was in for. Right before the appointment began, one of the developers even joked:
"I can't wait until you all stop laughing and start screaming."
What I Learned Playing
The story instantly continues after the first game, picking up on a foggy, thunderous colony planet where the Sevastopol station crashed. We play as Blake, a Weyland worker sent with her team to scavenge the station in search of survivors and lootable materials. They could never have dreamed of what was really waiting for them... something that survived the crash, and an icon we all know far too well from the first title.
Turning to the gameplay, we first explore the planet’s surface, which delivers a stunning and oppressive atmosphere. The heavy rain, lightning, and fog play mind games with you, making you expect a Xenomorph around every single turn. Fortunately, we made it to Sevastopol Station unharmed. Once inside, however, the power was completely dead. To progress, we needed to find parts to repair broken doors, bring the generator back online, and check the log data to figure out the station's tragic final moments.
We've Got Company
As expected, I finally got to meet the Xenomorph, who couldn't wait to hunt me down and give me a kiss. I found throwables on the ground, like a bottle, to lure it away. though that trick sadly only worked once. Later, I sneaked into a tunnel and heard the Xenomorph crawling directly on top of me, giving me chills as it drew nearer by the second. As I got close to making my exit, I naturally got caught. It started chasing me while I ran for my life toward an escape ladder. But right as I tried to climb up, something unexpected happened that I won't spoil, bringing the demo to an end.
It felt so good after such a long wait to finally experience Alien: Isolation 2. I really missed that terrifying feeling of being hunted by such an involved AI and a truly smart Nemesis. I can't wait to see how the full game handles those open, storm-swept environments outside the space station and makes us feel completely powerless all over again. Visually, the game looks crisp and stunning, and of the original and newcomers alike are in for a treat. While we still don't have an official release date, I wouldn't be surprised if we hear more at The Game Awards.
I want to thank SEGA and Cosmocover for the chance to experience all of this early. Without them, this preview wouldn't have been possible!