Roguelike deck building game Monster Train, released on Steam and Xbox in 2020 (followed by other formats in subsequent years), is a game that we here at Card Gamer have sunk countless hours into since we first discovered it. Though, like many other rogue like deck building games, it was released in the wake of Slay the Spire, the unique Angels vs Demons setting (with players actually on the demonic side, trying to keep the denizens of Hell alive against the relentless Heavenly onslaught), vibrantly colorful aesthetic and vertical, multi-level gameplay made Monster Train feel unique in a sea of similar titles. In a piece of coincidental timing, Monster Train’s sequel is due to leave the station in the same year that Slay the Spire 2 is arriving. What do we know about Monster Train 2 so far? Let’s take a closer look.
What’s New in Monster Train 2?
Story
First up: the enemy of your enemy will be your friend, as you’re no longer battling against heaven’s soldiers; in Monster Train 2, you’ll be teaming up with the light side, against powerful Titans who have seized control of heaven for themselves; given this new twist, there’s a more clearly defined narrative this time around too.
New Playable Clans
Which leads us onto the next new feature: more clans! One of the coolest elements of Monster Train was the dual clan system; before attempting a new run, you were able to choose any combination of 2 clans, with which to head into battle against the heavenly hordes. The first faction chosen would determine your strongest unit, and each faction’s deck, as well as their style of play, was different overall. Choosing a combination which made for interesting, powerful synergies, adapting your play style depending on which clans you used and unlocking cards for each deck was a huge part of what made the original Monster Train so compelling. With 5 new clans in Monster Train 2, there’ll be even more opportunity to discover new units, abilities and devilish synergies!
New Card Types and Customization Options
As well as new unit subtypes (check out one example in the image above, with the Upbeat Warbler card being classified as a “Hymnist”), Room and Equipment cards have been added to Monster Train 2. Room cards will allow players to apply improvements to the titular locomotive, and Equipment cards can be given to units to gain ability bonuses. In addition to that, the Pyre itself, which is the element of the train which must be protected at all costs, can also be customized, with the debut of Pyre Hearts. Developers Shiny Shoe have also said that Pyre Hearts will play a key role in the overall narrative of Monster Train 2, as well as providing gameplay bonuses.
A Post-Run Hub: The Covenant Outpost
Between runs, you’re now able to visit a hub known as The Covenant Outpost, which will allow players to unlock the aforementioned Pyre Hearts, check out their current progression, customize their train, encounter new characters (some of whom may,apparently, be guests from outside of the known Monster Train universe), and more.
Endless Mode
Finally, for now at least, we know that an Endless Mode will also be part of the Monster Train 2 experience. In the first Monster Train, the end of a run really was the end, and there would only be the option to start a new run. However, should players want to continue pitting themselves against increasingly difficult enemies after completing a main run, in Monster Train 2 they can do so, for as long as they can survive!
When Will Monster Train 2 Be Released?
According to the latest timetable, Monster Train 2 is scheduled to arrive on May 21st, 2025. Unlike the staggered release of the first game, Monster Train 2 will make its way to PC, PlayStation 5, Switch and Xbox Series consoles simultaneously.
Want to check out more on roguelike deck building games? We named the first Monster Train as our choice for the best card game on Steam you need to try. If you’re looking for something more family friendly, Nif Nif might be what you need! We’ve recently reviewed cozy deck builder, Cobalt Core, along with the Game Freak classic, Pocket Card Jockey: Ride On!
