The original Red Solstice found a dedicated audience with its blend of real-time tactics and cooperative action, and its sequel, Red Solstice 2: Survivors, expands on that foundation with deeper strategy, enhanced visuals, and a more robust single-player experience. With the Ultimate Edition now available on PlayStation 5, console players get access to a refined version featuring post-launch improvements and additional content.
Set in a war-ravaged future where humanity struggles against a deadly mutagenic infection, Red Solstice 2 casts players as the Executor, a leader commanding elite troops to fight off waves of relentless foes. The campaign unfolds across a global strategy layer, where players must manage resources, research upgrades, and decide where to deploy their squads. This overarching system introduces a more dynamic flow to the game, as every decision influences future battles and the overall resistance against the Biomass threat.
Combat in Red Solstice 2 retains the top-down, squad-based approach of its predecessor but refines it with improved AI, smoother controls, and a stronger emphasis on tactical positioning. While it can be played solo with AI companions, the game shines in its cooperative multiplayer mode, allowing up to eight players to team up in intense, fast-paced engagements. Each class brings unique abilities to the battlefield, from heavy gunners to medics, encouraging teamwork and strategic synergy.
The PlayStation 5 version benefits from the optimizations made post-launch, including performance improvements and better controller support. The transition from PC to console is handled well, with intuitive controls and an interface adapted for gamepad navigation. However, the complexity of the game’s menus and tactical elements may take some time to adjust to, especially for players unfamiliar with the genre.
Visually, the game delivers atmospheric environments with dark, industrial aesthetics that enhance its tense and grim atmosphere. Enemy designs are suitably grotesque, reinforcing the ever-present threat of the Biomass. While the graphics aren’t cutting-edge, they effectively convey the game’s bleak setting. The sound design further amplifies the tension, with eerie ambient effects and impactful weapon sounds adding to the immersive combat experience.
Despite its improvements, Red Solstice 2 still has some rough edges. The learning curve can be steep, and the strategic layer, while engaging, might feel overwhelming for those looking for a more straightforward action experience. Additionally, while AI squadmates are serviceable, they occasionally struggle with pathfinding or decision-making, making cooperative play the preferable option.
For fans of tactical shooters and cooperative strategy games, Red Solstice 2: Survivors’ Ultimate Edition offers a compelling experience that blends strategic planning with intense, real-time combat. The PlayStation 5 version ensures that players can enjoy the game with its best updates and additional content, though its complexity may deter more casual audiences. If you’re looking for a deep, atmospheric challenge, this is a solid addition to the tactical action genre.
Score: 7.1/10
Press Play Media 