Standing out in the indie game scene is a tough challenge, yet in 2018, a charming roguelike titled Moonlighter succeeded in doing just that. Blending 2D Zelda-like exploration with a retail simulation, players had to navigate dungeon runs while managing a shop, pricing items, and drawing in customers to fund future adventures. Its sequel, Moonlighter 2: The Endless Vault, was a surprise announcement that quickly climbed to the top of our most awaited titles. Let’s gather our oversized backpacks and delve into the details surrounding Moonlighter 2.
If you're curious about more indie and major releases on the horizon, check out our compilations for upcoming PS5 titles, Xbox Series X games, and PC games.
Release Window
Currently, Moonlighter 2 is slated for release in 2025. The last update we received was in late February, suggesting the game isn't likely to be available until the latter half of the year.
Platforms
Moonlighter 2 is confirmed for all major platforms except the Nintendo Switch. It will be available on PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC, with a possibility of releasing on the successor to the Switch.
Trailers
The announcement for Moonlighter 2 came at the end of 2024, featuring a brief trailer. Notably, the game shifts from its original 2D pixel art style to a new 3D isometric perspective. Players will reprise their roles as Will and the villagers from the first game, navigating a new realm while attempting to restore their village, Tresna, and find a path home.
This time around, players will explore various vaults packed with loot and enemies.
In February 2025, fans received another teaser during the ID@Xbox showcase, which provided insights into new villagers and primarily focused on the combat mechanics. While Moonlighter featured a narrative, gameplay elements took precedence. This trend may continue into the sequel.
Gameplay
While Moonlighter 2 introduces a new 3D design, its core gameplay loop remains familiar. Players will still engage in managing their shop, negotiating with customers, and spending gold to enhance the village. Nighttime will see them delve into the vaults, tackling enemies, gathering treasures, and optimizing their inventory for maximum efficiency. As players progress further into the vaults, they will encounter increasingly valuable loot and formidable foes.
New gameplay features include fresh weapon types, upgrade systems, and a diverse range of enemies and environments. Additionally, players can personalize their shops to attract more patrons. Vertical movements will play a crucial role, but dodging and strategic movement will be vital skills.
Preorder
As of now, there’s no preorder availability for Moonlighter 2 due to the absence of a specific release date. However, you can add the game to your wishlist on Steam, and it’s confirmed to be a day-one title on Game Pass, allowing subscribers to access it at launch without any additional cost.
