Planet Coaster 2

Planet Coaster 2 is a construction and management simulation game from Frontier Developments. It is the follow-up to the 2016 title *Planet Coaster* and launched on 6 November 2024 for Windows, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X/S.

The sequel adds water park construction and management, along with event sequencing. Building tools have been improved, and players can now visit other parks online or build together with cross-platform save sharing. The game returns with career, sandbox, and challenge modes. The pathing system, previously piece-by-piece, can now be switched to a draw system. New scenery options include object scaling, mirroring, and the ability to attach scenery directly to rides and coasters. An update on 12 February 2025 introduced customizable video billboards and synchronized ride launches.

Before *Planet Coaster 2*, Frontier worked on the *F1 Manager* series and *Warhammer Age of Sigmar: Realms of Ruin*, both of which underperformed and led to layoffs. This shifted the company’s focus back to management simulations. The game’s title leaked in June 2024 via an unofficial Epic Games Store tracker. It was formally revealed on 11 July 2024, with a gameplay showcase on 31 July 2024 during a Frontier Unlocked livestream.

Critics generally gave positive reviews, praising the visuals, customization, and new features. IGN’s Leana Hafer liked the improved tools and water attractions but found management shallow and staff maintenance frustrating. Rock Paper Shotgun’s Brendan Caldwell criticized the fiddly busywork, micromanagement, and poor interface. Shacknews’ Timo Reinecke commended the visuals, menus, and campaign, but noted shallow management and passive research. On release day, player reviews were mixed, with complaints about a half-finished feel, inferior UI, and buggy guest AI. However, players praised the performance, graphics, and improved controller support on Steam.