Grounded 2 Early Access Is a Must-Play for Survival Game Fans

Grounded 2 is the sequel to Grounded, which was released in late 2022. It is a survival adventure game, being developed by Obsidian Entertainment, in collaboration with Eidos-Montreal. It is being published by Xbox Game Studios and will be available on Xbox Game Pass on day one. Revealed at the Xbox Games Showcase in June 2025, Grounded 2 Early Access is now available as of 29 July 2025.

Players can look forward to exploring a larger, more detailed backyard world filled with new creatures, exciting challenges, and a deeper crafting system that expands the survival experience. The Early Access launch marks the beginning of an evolving journey, with continuous updates planned to enhance gameplay and add fresh content throughout 2025 and 2026 as well. Based on the reactions, the fans are loving what they are experiencing in Early Access so far. Let’s take a closer look at Grounded 2 Early Access and what makes it a must-play for survival game fans.

Grounded 2

Grounded 2 is a survival adventure game set in a backyard where players are shrunk to the size of insects. The events of Grounded 2 take place two years after those of the original game. You can play solo or make a team of four in online co-op multiplayer mode. You’ll explore a much bigger and more detailed world than the prequel. Moreover, it will be filled with new bugs and secrets to discover. You’ll need to gather resources, craft tools, and build shelters to stay safe and survive each day.

The game offers a fresh experience with new challenges, creatures to interact with, and deeper crafting options. Features include:

Larger World: The backyard is bigger and has more areas to explore than before.
New Creatures: Encounter different bugs, insects, and possibly new animal types.
Improved Crafting: Expanded crafting system with more items, tools, and upgrades.
Multiplayer: Join your friends online for co-op teamwork and fun challenges.
Building System: Better building tools and options for creating your own base.
Rideable Bugs: You’ll eventually be able to ride ladybugs and try out water buggies for exploring ponds.

Grounded 2 Early Access

The anticipated Early Access of Grounded 2 is now available as of 29 July 2025. And the Early reviews highlight improved polish, accessibility, and long-term potential compared to the original game. It’s safe to say that if you enjoyed Grounded 1, you’re definitely going to love this one.

The user interface is much clearer, making menus and inventory easy to navigate.
The map is more detailed, helping players find their way better.
More colorful visuals and improved world design make the backyard feel lively and inviting.
Introduction of the Omni-Tool, a versatile device that replaces multiple tools for easier early progression.
Ranger Outposts act as safe havens and feature deeper, more immersive design inspired by Fallout.
Gear customization has been expanded, allowing more personalization of characters.

The Early Access launch marks the beginning of an evolving journey, with continuous updates planned to enhance gameplay and add fresh content throughout 2025 and 2026 as well. Although the Grounded 2 Early Access has just launched, the developers are already onto releasing updates. Just one day later, they released an update called Hotfix 0.1.1.2. In short, it fixes a crash for PC players when players launch the game without Gaming Services enabled.

Early Access Roadmap

As the game finally released for Early Access, Obsidian rolled out an Early Access roadmap showcasing future plans and updates for the survival adventure game. There are lots of exciting details coming in the updates. The fall update will add things like a Building Grid, a hot pouch for your buggies, new furniture, new languages, and improvements to make the game easier to play.

Looking ahead to winter and 2026, the team plans to make the game work well on devices like the Steam Deck and ROG Ally. They also want to add the ability to ride ladybugs and new water buggies. Which means there might be a big pond to explore in the game.

When Is Grounded 2 Coming Out?

There is no precise release date for Grounded 2 yet. The game has just entered the Early Access stage for PC and Xbox Series X|S. The game preview for Grounded 2 is also available on Xbox Game Pass via Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass. Obsidian Entertainment has confirmed that the game will also be available on Game Pass on day one.

The Early Access Roadmap extends until summer 2026. If the developers follow the same trend as the predecessor, which stayed in early access for two years. Then the fans can expect the full release in late 2026 or early 2027. The rest will be confirmed by the developer in future announcements.

Grounded 2 Platforms

Grounded 2 will only be available on PC and Xbox Series X|S and Game Pass on day one. Besides these platforms, Grounded 1 was also released on PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, and Xbox One. Meanwhile, the developers do not plan to release the sequel on the latter platforms for now. Although releasing it on more platforms can invite new and veteran players, and keep the fans happy.

Grab the Grounded game at the cheapest price here.

Summary

Grounded 2 is a fun survival game where players shrink to insect size and explore a bigger, detailed backyard. Available now in Early Access on PC and Xbox Series X|S, it supports solo and four-player co-op play. The game features new creatures, better crafting, and improved visuals. Regular updates will add new tools, rideable bugs, and more. The full release is expected around late 2026 or early 2027.