Frostpunk 2 Deluxe Edition vs Standard Edition: Which One Should You Get?
With the upcoming release of Frostpunk 2 on September 20, 2024, fans of the popular city-building survival game are faced with a choice: the Standard Edition or the Deluxe Edition. Each edition offers a unique package of content, appealing to different types of players depending on how immersive they want their experience to be.
Let’s take a closer look at what each edition provides, the added value of the Deluxe Edition, and which one might be the best fit for you.
Overview of Frostpunk 2 Editions
Both editions grant access to the full Frostpunk 2 game, but the Deluxe Edition includes additional perks, exclusive content, and early access features designed for fans looking to fully immerse themselves in the game’s rich, post-apocalyptic setting.
Here’s a breakdown of the features in each version:
What’s Included in the Standard Edition
The Standard Edition offers the complete Frostpunk 2 base game and is priced at $49.99. Here’s what you get:
Full Game: Access to the full Frostpunk 2 experience, with challenging survival mechanics, faction-based politics, and expanded city-building gameplay.
Game Pass Access: Frostpunk 2 will be available on PC Game Pass at launch, allowing subscribers to play the game without purchasing it separately.
While the Standard Edition doesn’t include any pre-order bonuses or exclusive digital items, it’s an excellent option for players looking to experience the game without the added cost of premium content. It’s also ideal for Game Pass subscribers, who can play the game through their existing subscription at no additional cost.
Deluxe Edition Features and Benefits
The Deluxe Edition, priced at $74.99, includes several additional perks that enhance the Frostpunk 2 experience. Here’s what you get with the Deluxe Edition:
Full Game: Like the Standard Edition, you get the complete base game.
Three Future DLCs: The Deluxe Edition includes access to three post-launch DLC packs, which will introduce new content, gameplay expansions, and possibly additional storylines.
Exclusive Digital Content: Players receive a digital artbook, the official soundtrack, and a novella titled “Warm Flesh” that further explores the Frostpunk universe.
Early Access: Deluxe Edition buyers get a 72-hour early access period starting on September 17, 2024, allowing them to experience the game three days before its official launch.
Closed Beta Access: Deluxe Edition purchasers also had early access to a closed beta in April 2024, providing an exclusive first look at the game.
The additional content offered in the Deluxe Edition caters to dedicated Frostpunk fans who are interested in diving deeper into the game’s world, both through story expansions and exclusive extras.
Breaking Down the Added Value of the Deluxe Edition
DLCs for Extended Gameplay
The three DLC packs included in the Deluxe Edition will expand on the base game’s content. While specific details about the DLCs haven’t been fully revealed, players can expect these expansions to bring new challenges, scenarios, and possibly fresh narrative content.
For fans who enjoyed the season pass model for games like Cities: Skylines or Civilization VI, the Deluxe Edition ensures access to all future content at no additional cost.
In a game like Frostpunk 2, where survival mechanics and tough decision-making are central to gameplay, DLC can offer new scenarios and obstacles, keeping the experience fresh long after release.
The Warm Flesh Novella
One standout feature of the Deluxe Edition is the “Warm Flesh” novella. This digital book dives deeper into the game’s dark, post-apocalyptic world, offering backstory and additional lore for players interested in understanding the setting and the storylines.
This novella appeals to those who are invested in the narrative aspect of Frostpunk and want to immerse themselves further in its bleak, frozen world.
Digital Artbook and Soundtrack
The digital artbook and soundtrack are perfect for fans who appreciate the visual and musical artistry behind the game. Frostpunk 2 has a distinctive visual style that captures the harsh beauty of a frozen apocalypse.
The artbook provides a behind-the-scenes look at concept art and design processes, giving fans insight into how the game’s environments and characters were brought to life. The soundtrack, composed to evoke the chilling atmosphere of Frostpunk 2, offers an additional layer of immersion.
Early Access to the Game
For those who can’t wait to play, the 72-hour early access in the Deluxe Edition lets players dive into the game on September 17, 2024, three days before the official launch.
This feature is particularly appealing for fans who have been eagerly awaiting the sequel and want to start their journey through the frozen wasteland as soon as possible.
The early access period can also be beneficial for players interested in streaming or sharing content online, as it gives them a head start on exploring the game and creating community discussions.
Who Should Get the Standard Edition?
The Standard Edition is a great choice for players who are mainly interested in the core gameplay experience of Frostpunk 2 without any additional frills. Here are a few scenarios where the Standard Edition might be ideal:
Game Pass Subscribers: If you already have PC Game Pass or Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, you can play Frostpunk 2 at launch without purchasing it separately, as it will be available on Game Pass for PC.
New or Casual Players: If you’re new to Frostpunk or strategy games in general, the Standard Edition provides the full experience at a lower price, letting you see if the game fits your tastes before committing to DLC or exclusive content.
Budget-Conscious Gamers: If you’re primarily interested in the base game and don’t feel the need for digital extras or future DLCs, the Standard Edition is a budget-friendly option.
Who Should Opt for the Deluxe Edition?
The Deluxe Edition is designed for fans who want an all-inclusive experience with additional content and early access. It’s the better choice if:
You’re a Dedicated Frostpunk Fan: If you’ve been eagerly awaiting the sequel and want to experience every detail of its world, the Deluxe Edition offers lore-rich extras like the Warm Flesh novella and the digital artbook.
You Want the DLCs: For players who enjoy replaying with new content, the included DLCs make the Deluxe Edition a good value, as buying each DLC separately may cost more in the long run.
You Want Early Access: If you’re excited to start exploring Frostpunk 2 as early as possible, the 72-hour early access period is a huge draw.
Final Thoughts: Which Edition is Right for You?
Both editions of Frostpunk 2 offer an immersive experience, but the right choice depends on what type of player you are.
The Standard Edition is perfect for those focused on the core gameplay or those using Game Pass, while the Deluxe Edition is ideal for dedicated fans eager for additional content, lore, and early access.
Ultimately, if you’re drawn to the story, strategy, and artistry of the Frostpunk world, the Deluxe Edition may provide a richer experience that’s worth the investment.
