The Kerbal Space Program sequel is heading to early access in February next year.
The much-anticipated Kerbal Space Program 2 will launch into early access on February 24, 2023, available on Steam, Epic Games Store, and other PC storefronts.
“We are so excited to release Kerbal Space Program 2 in Early Access because it will allow Kerbal fans to see for themselves all the amazing progress we’ve made as we reach the final stages of development,” said creative director Nate Simpson. “At its heart, KSP2 is about exploration, discovery, and conquering the force of gravity by adding more boosters.”
A sequel to the beloved rocket-building sim, Kerbal Space Program 2 has been built from the ground up to teach the joy of rocket science to a new generation of players. New, fully interactive tutorials will teach players the basics, then it’s off to the completely revamped vehicle assembly interface to combine over 350 new and improved parts to build the rocket of your dreams.
Using a combination of engines, fuel tanks, procedural parts systems, and more, players can craft planes, rockets, rovers, and “other creations” to aid them on their adventures. Kerbal Space Program 2 also adds the ability to customize and paint your vehicles. That’s right – it’s time to boldly go where no Kerbal has gone before.
During early access, players will be able to explore the entire Kerbolar system – launching from Kerbin, exploring the “pockmarked and breathtaking” Mun, and catching a glimpse of the green clouds of Jool.
All these classic locations from the original Kerbal Space Program have been reimagined, with new levels of realism and complexity promised thanks to new terrain and atmosphere systems.
After releasing Kerbal Space Program 2 in early access, Intercept Games is already planning a number of updates, including:
- Future Technologies: Use new fuels and propulsion systems to travel far beyond the original Kerbolar system into uncharted space.
- Colonies: Build custom bases either planetside or in deep space, managing power and habitation to sustain life on a faraway planet.
- Multiplayer: Co-operate or compete with friends to see who makes the best rockets.
Additionally, Intercept Games is planning to add mod support, making the game even more mod-friendly than the original.
Want to read more about Kerbal Space Program 2? Check out the game’s original reveal trailer as well as what’s been in the works since 2019.
Ryan Leston is an entertainment journalist and film critic for IGN. You can follow him on Twitter.