Planet Of Lana 2 Review: A Visual Masterpiece With Gameplay Shortcomings
In the realm of indie gaming, few titles capture the eye quite like Planet Of Lana 2. Released on March 5, 2026, this sequel builds upon the foundation of its predecessor, offering some of the most visually stunning landscapes in modern gaming. However, beneath its painterly beauty lies a game that struggles to innovate, leaving players with a mix of awe and disappointment.
The Aesthetic Brilliance of Planet Of Lana 2
Planet Of Lana 2 excels in creating an immersive world that feels alive and vibrant. The game features breathtaking 2D scrolling landscapes, with towering cloud formations and lush green forests brought to life through multiple layers of parallax scrolling. The art style is consistently uplifting, drawing players into a pastoral setting that contrasts sharply with the darker tones of games like Limbo and Inside.
Sound design plays a crucial role in enhancing this atmosphere. Ethereal music and light sound effects, such as bird songs and deep sub-aquatic noises, infuse the world with a sense of tranquility. The motion capture for characters, including the young hero and the cat-like pet Mui, adds a layer of realism, making them feel like genuine inhabitants of this beautifully crafted universe.
Gameplay and Puzzle Mechanics: A Missed Opportunity
Despite its visual splendor, Planet Of Lana 2 falters in its gameplay. The puzzle design, while charming, is often too simplistic and repetitive. Many mechanics are recycled from the original game, with little added complexity or innovation. For instance, underwater sections require players to nudge open heavy metal doors multiple times without variation, leading to a sense of monotony.
The controls also present a challenge, with a perceptible lag between input and character motion, reminiscent of older titles like the original Prince Of Persia. This can make puzzles feel fiddly and frustrating, even when they are not particularly taxing. As a result, the game sometimes resembles a 2D walking simulator, allowing players to explore its gorgeous environments without engaging deeply with its mechanics.
Story and Character Development
The narrative of Planet Of Lana 2 continues the themes of its predecessor. After defeating robotic alien invaders in the first game, players now face a new threat: humans exploiting extraterrestrial technology to mine polluting substances from the Earth. When a little girl falls ill due to this pollution, the protagonist embarks on a quest across four contrasting biomes to find a cure.
Mui, the pet companion, returns with enhanced abilities, such as releasing electromagnetic pulses and suppressing radiation. While these additions add some variety, they are not enough to elevate the overall experience. The game's lack of significant progression in story or mechanics since the original release is a notable drawback, making it feel more like an expansion than a true sequel.
Comparison to Indie Classics and Final Verdict
Planet Of Lana 2 draws inspiration from indie classics like ICO, with its invented language and emphasis on atmosphere over explicit storytelling. However, it fails to match the depth and innovation of such titles. While the game is a treat for the eyes and ears, its undemanding puzzles and recycled concepts leave it feeling bland and insubstantial.
In summary, Planet Of Lana 2 is a beautiful but flawed experience. It offers stunning visuals and an immersive atmosphere, yet lacks the challenge and innovation needed to stand out in the crowded indie game market. For fans of the original, it provides more of the same, but for those seeking something new, it may fall short.
Score: 6/10
Formats: PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch 2, and PC
Price: £16.99
Publisher: Thunderful
Developer: Wishfully
Release Date: 5th March 2026
Age Rating: 12
