Machinarium, the acclaimed 2009 2D puzzle game, is getting an official sequel from its original creators. The first game is widely regarded as one of the best point-and-click puzzle games of the 2000s and has remained a cult favorite among genre fans since its release. Machinarium 2 will continue the story where the original left off and introduce an intriguing new mechanic that could change the gameplay entirely.
Announcing the surprise sequel, developer Amanita Design said, “We’re not getting any younger, and the world seems to be ending, so if we were ever going to make Machinarium 2, now is the right time.” Since Machinarium‘s release, Amanita Design has remained active, releasing multiple games, including new installments in the Samorost franchise. Now, however, the studio is preparing to return to one of its most iconic titles.
Machinarium 2 Is Coming to Windows and macOS
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Image via Amanita Design -
Image via Amanita Design -
Image via Amanita Design
Amanita Design plans to release Machinarium 2 on Windows and macOS via Steam, with wishlists now open. The developer has also expressed interest in bringing the sequel to more storefronts, saying, “More platforms and dates will be announced later.” Machinarium 2 will retain the original game’s hand-drawn visuals and lack of text dialogue, with characters communicating through noises and symbols. Fans of classic 2D point-and-click games will also be pleased to know that the sequel will continue Josef and Berta’s story after the first game’s events.
The biggest change in Machinarium 2, however, is the ability to control both Josef and Berta.
The developer said, “After escaping the city of Machinarium, Josef and Berta crash-land in the barrens.” The two protagonists will discover a brand-new location with different factions and new robot characters. The biggest change in Machinarium 2, however, is the ability to control both Josef and Berta. Players will be able to switch between them in different segments, suggesting a new approach to solving puzzles. That said, Machinarium 2 will not feature co-op and is listed as a single-player puzzle game on Steam.
The 2009 Machinarium was also praised for its music, which many considered one of the best soundtracks in gaming at the time. Each area featured a distinct track with futuristic themes that matched the game’s robot-filled, dystopian world. The good news for fans is that the original composer is returning to produce the music for the upcoming sequel. Amanita Design said, “The soundtrack is composed by Tomas Dvorak, aka Floex, who scored the original Machinarium. His new work keeps the robot universe and acoustic textures of the first game, now elevated by symphonic arrangements.”
Czech indie developer Amanita Design has also discounted the original Machinarium by 80%, bringing its price down to just $2.99. Fans of atmospheric indie games who haven’t played this gem can take advantage of the limited-time offer, which ends on October 15, and enjoy the game while waiting for the sequel. At the time of writing, Machinarium 2 has no release window. However, the fact that its first trailer already features gameplay could mean the wait won’t be too long.
- Released
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October 16, 2009
- ESRB
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E10+ For Everyone 10+ // Comic Mischief, Use of Tobacco
- Engine
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adobe flash