After several delays in its release schedule, some fans of the sandbox simulation game genre are wondering – is Prison Architect 2 worth the wait?
And how is it different from the first Prison Architect anyway? And, in the case of those new to the franchise – do I need to play the first game before jumping into the sequel?
We’re here to compare the sequel to the original to help you make an informed decision!
A different look
Prison Architect is instantly recognisable by its two-dimensional visual style. It’s simplified, yes, but it adds to the game’s charm – which is why many fans of the title were surprised by the fact when the developers decided to go in a very different direction with the sequel.
No longer two-dimensional, Prison Architect 2 has gone for its own visual identity. Which of the two looks better is a matter of personal taste, but it’s important to note that the change affects more than just the look.
Dimensions and their effect on gameplay
The prisons in Prison Architect were flat. Not just because they were drawn that way, but also because the game did not provide an option to expand vertically.
This changes in Prison Architect 2, and apart from expanding your prison to cover more and more ground, you can also add up to four storeys. This opens up new gameplay possibilities, such as walkways for the staff and vantage points for your guards.
On the other hand, the two-dimensional flat prisons in Prison Architect were much easier to keep track of, as you could see the whole thing at a glance.
Image credit: Introversion Software, Double Eleven
Surveying multi-storey buildings is less convenient – but it could be an interesting challenge in itself.
Additional content
Prison Architect was released seven years ago and has been supported by its developer and publisher for most of that time.
This means that it has received numerous patches and updates, as well as a fair number of DLCs, as befits a Paradox game. It’s unlikely that the sequel will be able to compete with the amount of content that has been added to Prison Architect over the years – at least not on release.
Of course, it’s likely to receive the same treatment as the original and more content will be added after release – but it will take some time.
Prisoner behaviour
The developers of Prison Architect 2 have boasted that the prisoners are now smarter than they were before.
This means they will make more logical decisions – and cause you even more trouble if you don’t keep a close eye on them. Additionally, the prisoners in Prison Architect 2 are capable of forming relationships with their fellow inmates, adding an extra layer to their behaviour.
For example, if you fail to keep mortal enemies apart, they’re likely to attack each other. On the other hand, two best friends in the same cell could cause trouble of a whole different kind if they put their minds together.
In comparison, the prisoners from the original have less depth and are less three-dimensional than their successors.
Developers behind the games
It’s worth noting that Introversion Software – the studio behind the original Prison Architect – is not responsible for the sequel.
Another studio – Double Eleven – was tasked with developing Prison Architect 2. However, they’ve been working on further support for the original since Paradox bought the rights in 2019, so they’re not completely new to the franchise.
Summary
As you can see, there are quite a few differences between the two iterations of the Prison Architect franchise.
We’ll have to wait for the official release to see if Prison Architect 2 can live up to the original, often cited as the best game in the sandbox simulation genre, but the various improvements and changes mean that it will be more than just a carbon copy.
And while you don’t need to play the original before the sequel, why not give it a go while you wait for Prison Architect 2’s release?