The Unveiling of Blasphemous 2: Everything You Must Know Before Its Epic Release

Highlights

Blasphemous 2 is upping the ante of the first game while leaning more heavily into Metroidvania gameplay, expanding combat into traversal and puzzle-solving.

The sequel introduces three innovative weapons that revolutionize gameplay, providing players with distinct combat advantages and enhanced traversal abilities that greatly influence their progress. Blasphemous 2 sets itself apart from its predecessor through its focus on exploration, puzzle-solving, and platforming, delivering a unique Metroidvania experience that effectively fills the void left by Hollow Knight: Silksong's absence.

The long-awaited sequel to The Game Kitchen's incredible hybrid game, Blasphemous, is set to be released in just a few weeks. Fans have eagerly awaited any new information about the title since its initial announcement. Fortunately, The Game Kitchen and publisher Team 17 have generously provided updates and even allowed members of the gaming media to have a hands-on experience with the game in May. From what has been shown so far, Blasphemous 2 seems to surpass its predecessor in every aspect, while also embracing its Metroidvania elements more prominently.

The first Blasphemous was a pleasant surprise and has received continued support from the developer through patches and free DLC. This dedication has elevated the game to cult-classic status. Although it was described as a blend of Metroidvanias and Soulslikes, players can confirm that it had more similarities with Dark Souls than Castlevania. The sequel is already showing signs of setting itself apart by retaining the excellent combat mechanics of the first game while expanding its applications to include traversal and puzzle-solving, aligning it more closely with the inspirations of Metroidvania games.

Blasphemous 2's New Weapons Completely Transform Gameplay

In contrast to other contemporary Metroidvania games that combine elements of Soulslike combat, such as Hollow Knight, the initial version of Blasphemous only offered one upgradeable weapon for players to utilize throughout their entire journey. This weapon, known as the Mea Culpa, was a reliable tool comparable to the Knight's Nail, but it limited players to a specific combat style. However, Blasphemous 2 addresses this lack of diversity by introducing not one, but three new weapons. In fact, one of the first decisions players make in the game is choosing which weapon to use initially.

These fresh weapons possess their own distinct physics and combat advantages, which completely overhaul the combat mechanics in Blasphemous 2. Early hands-on experiences with the new combat system indicate that it is smoother and more responsive compared to the first game, regardless of the chosen weapon. While combat remains a key component of Blasphemous 2's gameplay, the exciting part lies in how the weapon choice during the early stages of the game impacts the path players will traverse in its peculiar and captivating world.

Players are presented with a test arena to try out different weapons before facing the classic Soulslike dilemma of which one to use initially. Regardless of the initial choice, players will eventually uncover and gain access to the other two weapons. Each weapon offers unique traversal abilities that significantly impact player progress, adding weight to their decision.

For example, selecting the flail grants players the ability to strike bells, causing invisible platforms to appear and granting access to a previously blocked-off biome. This biome can only be reached later in the game if the player chooses the rapier and dagger combo or the traditional sword. Even when players venture into these new biomes, there is a stronger focus on exploration, puzzle-solving, and platforming compared to the original Blasphemous.

The transformative impact of the three new weapons in Blasphemous 2 goes beyond combat, shaping the way players traverse and explore the game world. This solidifies the sequel's commitment to its Metroidvania influences, ensuring a unique and distinct experience. Additionally, the game offers the opportunity to replay and choose from three different starting options, resulting in a varied and fresh playthrough each time. With its release date set for August 24, 2023, on Nintendo Switch, PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X/S, Blasphemous 2 is poised to fill the Metroidvania void left by the absence of Hollow Knight: Silksong.