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Yes, it’s official—Grounded 2 will be available via Game Preview starting July 29, 2025. This early-access phase gives eager fans a chance to jump in and experience the game well before its full launch.
Even better? Grounded 2 is launching on Xbox Series X/S and PC, and it’ll be available day one on Xbox Game Pass. So whether you’re a seasoned survivor or a curious newcomer, getting started will be easy and affordable.
What Is Grounded 2? A Bigger Backyard With New Dangers
For those unfamiliar with the series, Grounded is a survival adventure game where players are shrunk to the size of an ant and must survive the threats of a backyard ecosystem. Insects become monsters, and blades of grass become towering trees. You’ll craft tools, build shelters, and fight for survival—often with friends by your side.
In Grounded 2, the world expands from a backyard to a massive park, introducing a broader, more dynamic open world filled with new biomes, threats, and gameplay features. The sequel promises an even more immersive survival experience.
New Gameplay Features: Mountable Bugs, New Weapons, and More
The reveal trailer gave us a thrilling sneak peek into what’s coming:
- Mountable Insects: That’s right—some of the terrifying bugs from the original game can now be tamed and ridden into battle. A first for the series.
- Expanded Arsenal: Players can wield new weapons such as knives, shields, and bows, perfect for fending off scorpions, spiders, praying mantises, and more.
- Larger Environments: The new setting—a sprawling park—offers diverse landscapes, including water features, dense foliage, and rocky areas, all filled with interactive threats and treasures.
This new environment is also built for multiplayer—a key selling point. Up to four players can team up in co-op mode to explore, build, and survive together, making the adventure more dynamic and unpredictable.
Game Preview vs Full Release: What to Expect
The Game Preview phase launching on July 29 will offer players early access to the core gameplay. As with the original Grounded, expect frequent updates, bug fixes, and content expansions based on community feedback.
This early-access model allows Obsidian to gather valuable player input while maintaining flexibility to polish and enhance the final product. Players should expect:
- Access to the new park map
- A variety of creatures and weapons
- Core building and crafting mechanics
- Multiplayer co-op functionality
The full version of Grounded 2 is likely to include additional story elements, extended maps, and more refined systems. A release window for the final version hasn’t been announced yet.
A Legacy of Innovation: Obsidian’s Busy 2025
Grounded 2 isn’t Obsidian’s only major project this year. The studio has had a blockbuster 2025 so far:
- Avowed launched on February 18, drawing acclaim for its rich storytelling and expansive RPG systems.
- Pillars of Eternity is getting a turn-based combat mode update, further cementing its status as a deep, replayable CRPG.
- And most notably, The Outer Worlds 2 is slated for release on October 29, making this one of Obsidian’s most ambitious years to date.
With Grounded 2 joining the lineup, Obsidian continues to showcase its versatility across genres—from fantasy RPGs to sci-fi satire to survival adventure.
Why Grounded 2 Is Generating So Much Buzz
The original Grounded gained a cult following for its unique blend of survival mechanics, crafting systems, and cooperative gameplay, all wrapped in a nostalgic Honey-I-Shrunk-the-Kids aesthetic. It sold millions and became a sleeper hit over time thanks to regular content updates and an engaged fan community.
Now, with Grounded 2, Obsidian is scaling up every aspect—more creatures, bigger maps, better multiplayer, and new gameplay layers—all while keeping the heart of the game intact.
The early footage suggests a strong continuation that both honors and elevates what made the first game great.
How to Play Grounded 2: Platforms & Game Pass Access
To recap, here’s how you can be among the first to play Grounded 2:
- Release Date (Game Preview): July 29, 2025
- Platforms: Xbox Series X|S and Windows PC
- Availability: Day One on Xbox Game Pass
You don’t need to wait for a full release or pay extra—just fire up your Xbox or PC, log into Game Pass, and start your miniature survival adventure.
Final Thoughts: A Sequel That’s Ready to Fly
Grounded 2 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting survival games of 2025, and its surprise announcement during the Xbox Games Showcase took fans by storm. With a near-term release, expansive new features, and a larger-than-life setting, it looks set to capture the magic of the original—and then some.
Whether you’re a bug-battling veteran or curious newcomer, July 29 is your chance to explore the world from a whole new (tiny) perspective.
