PGC NEWS

Moving Out 2, the sequel to the popular physics-based moving simulator from Team17, developers of Overcooked and The Escapists, has finally arrived. The original game, released in 2020, offered a chaotic and hilarious co-op experience. This review explores what Moving Out 2 brings to the table, highlighting both its strengths and weaknesses.

Moving Out 2 Gameplay

Multiversal Mayhem and Quirky Level Design

Players once again take on the role of Furniture Arrangement and Relocation Technicians (F.A.R.T.) tasked with moving everything from refrigerators and sofas to… livestock. The core gameplay remains largely unchanged, focusing on cooperative object manipulation and puzzle-solving. However, Moving Out 2 integrates previously optional “return to sender” missions into the main campaign, offering a more streamlined experience. The roster of playable characters has also expanded, providing more variety.

Moving Out 2 Characters

Level design is where Moving Out 2 truly shines. Environmental elements like ramps, bouncy pads, and even hazardous obstacles like rogue shovels and aggressive goats add layers of complexity and hilarity to the gameplay. These elements become even more dynamic with the introduction of interdimensional travel.

Moving Out 2 Levels

Beyond the initial suburban setting, Moving Out 2 introduces three distinct worlds: the magical Middle Folkmore, the futuristic Patropolis, and the sugary Snackmore. Each world boasts unique environmental mechanics and challenges. Rotating rooms, treacherous chasms requiring rainbow-powered train travel, and other quirky obstacles ensure a fresh and engaging experience throughout the estimated 6-8 hour campaign, even for solo players.

Frustrating Flaws and Missed Opportunities

Despite its improvements, Moving Out 2 suffers from some perplexing design choices. The progression system, based on earning stars by completing level objectives, feels needlessly convoluted. While players can technically complete all five objectives on their first attempt, three are hidden until after the initial playthrough. This forces repetitive gameplay to unlock new areas, even though the requirements are achievable from the start.

Moving Out 2 Challenges

Some levels also seem poorly designed for solo play. Patropolis levels shrouded in clouds, requiring a vacuum for visibility, force solo players to juggle two tasks simultaneously, making for a frustrating experience. Similarly, the timed “Time Attack” levels can be extremely difficult to complete alone.

Moving Out 2 Co-op

Perhaps the biggest oversight is the lack of online matchmaking. Players are limited to split-screen co-op or pre-arranged online sessions, significantly hindering the accessibility of the multiplayer experience. This makes enjoying the core co-op focus of the game unnecessarily complicated.

Conclusion

Moving Out 2 expands on the original with creative level design and engaging multiversal settings. However, its flawed progression system, some poorly balanced solo levels, and the lack of online matchmaking detract from the overall experience. While the chaotic gameplay remains entertaining, these shortcomings prevent Moving Out 2 from reaching its full potential. If you enjoyed the first game and have friends to play with locally, Moving Out 2 offers more of the same chaotic fun. However, solo players and those seeking seamless online co-op may find themselves frustrated.