Minecraft Dungeons 2

Minecraft Dungeons II proves this spin-off franchise can stand on its own and improve with subsequent entries at a time when Xbox is refocusing on its biggest IP. There’s plenty of room to expand, improve, and let me reach that endgame feeling of satisfaction much sooner, though. Right now, Minecraft Dungeons II is simply a straightforward, entry-level action-RPG.

Where Minecraft Dungeons was a charming introduction to the dungeon-crawler genre, Dungeons 2 builds a deeper action-RPG within the same familiar, blocky framework. While it doesn’t completely escape the limitations of its predecessor, Minecraft Dungeons 2 is a more ambitious sequel that finally gives its loot, builds, and world the depth that was missing, even if a few rough edges remain.

Minecraft Dungeons II should be easier and more enjoyable with more players, given that it’s the intended experience, but even with two players and a couple of pets, the on-screen busyness is intense and a chore to manage, and it drags the whole game down with it.

Minecraft Dungeons II is at its best with a friend. Its item system makes experimenting with gear rewarding, while fluid, straightforward combat keeps the action moving. Late-game freezes on Xbox Series X are frustrating, but they did not spoil an enjoyable co-op adventure.

At first, I wasn’t really sure what to expect, but in the end, I had a lot of fun with Minecraft Dungeons II. It has all the elements that make this genre so much fun: great combat, a lot of gear and weapons to collect, interesting and even challenging enemies, and tons of treasures to discover. I also really enjoyed the interconnected world, which fits the Minecraft universe a lot better if you ask me.

Minecraft Dungeons II takes everything that felt aimless about the original and brings it into focus. The combat is simple and the story is forgettable, but a steady drip of loot and satisfying buildcrafting make for a sticky, stay-up-too-late loop. Add clean performance and some of the most flexible co-op around, and you've got an accessible looter that works as well for Diablo vets as it does for super-excited 10-year-olds.