"SteamWorld Dig 2" Review

Every two years, developer Image & Form somehow manages to top itself with yet another Metroidvania-style smash.

Following the head-turning successes of "SteamWorld Dig" (2013) and "SteamWorld Heist" (2015) comes "SteamWorld Dig 2," which reaches fascinating heists while allowing you to dig deep into its subterranean depths. The side-scroller tasks you to seek out currency and upgrades beneath the surface, teasing you with just-out-of-reach caches you vow to return to dig up once you've equipped more powerful tools.

Packing a steampunk-style vibe blended with Wild West influences, the game's cast of characters make for a steady stream of chuckles and occasionally thought-provoking witticisms.

Labyrinthine levels are designed with exquisite ingenuity and care, and the bite-size mission design makes it easy to pick up and play in quick hits or invest long-term time for marathon sessions. The versatility is what makes it an apt pairing for the Switch, which has replaced the 3DS as the system of choice for "SteamWorld" games.

A game as filled with hidden treasures as its levels, "SteamWorld Dig 2" is one of the year's highlights and yet another home run for the skilled dev team. Ya dig?

Publisher provided review code.