The upcoming Endless Legend 2 is sparking my love for 4X games once again, as developer Amplitude teases the first of its playable factions, the hardened Kin of Sheredyn. Civilization 7 might make some bold changes, but it remains fundamentally, stoically Civ in its core systems. Like its predecessor before it, EL2 is set to bring something different to the strategy table, leaning into firmly defined faction identities that open up the potential for far more unique play styles.
Launched between Civ 5 and 6, the first Endless Legend was a breath of fresh air. It felt creative and distinctive at a time when the best 4X games around it were nailing down a more rigid formula, and a big part of that was in its faction diversity. Its Broken Lords are fallen spirit knights, using the game’s core currency ‘Dust’ to extend their lifespans rather than betray their moral code and drain the life force of other sentient beings. Conversely, the Drakken are a noble dragon people with few fighters but the ability to force peace treaties and alliances through careful application of diplomatic pressure.
Endless Legend 2, then, has a lot to live up to – but we’re off to a good start. The Kin of Sheredyn are the first new faction Amplitude offers a close look at, and they’re a defensively minded society descended from interstellar explorers. Originating from a “mighty empire,” they’re relative strangers to the new ocean-strewn land of Saiadha, with their early attempts to forge a colony impeded by the planet’s devastating storms and constant threats from the Endless universe’s returning insectoid menace, the Necrophage.
Amid the chaos, the Kin force does what it knows best and hunkers down, building strong fortifications on their new island home. To make matters worse, their charismatic leader, Commander Garin, has been missing for several years after vanishing during an expedition into the ruins of the Endless. She’s now become more a figure of myth, with the remaining Kin fervent in their belief that the long-lost hero will make her triumphant return one day to lead them to salvation.
The Kin of Sheredyn are best suited to players who enjoy a more defensive, turtling playstyle. Their early focus is on establishing and gradually expanding upon their robust, high-walled cities, which they protect with their disciplined military. Legionary units form the backbone of that army, supported by archers, cavalry, and special soldiers called the Chosen, elite troops in power armor.
As the Kin’s strength grows, they’ll gradually regain control of their more advanced technologies, even becoming capable of calling in the likes of powerful orbital strikes and strategic abilities. I’m already eager to give them a try – I’m reminded of the Command and Conquer Generals superweapons expert Alexis Alexander, who specializes in utilizing defensive tools to hold off threats until she can get her devastating endgame powers online.
Endless Legend 2 is set to launch via Steam Early Access in 2025. With more than 165,000 wishlists already since its announcement in January, I’m certainly not alone in my anticipation. If you want a chance to experience it early and help provide feedback to shape the game’s initial launch, you can fill out a form to apply for the Amplitude Insiders Program.
To keep you busy in the meantime, we’ve picked out plenty of the best grand strategy games and the best fantasy games, so you’ll have ample choice no matter what your tastes may be.
Which is your favorite Endless Legend faction? Let us know on Discord. You can also follow us on Google News for daily PC games news, reviews, and guides.