Atomic Heart 2 RPG Systems Grant Players Greater Freedom

In a recent reveal, Mundfish's CEO and Game Director shared insights on the gameplay enhancements planned for the upcoming sequel. Discover how the game is evolving with a refined Open World RPG framework, greater player influence on the narrative, and a host of immersive new activities.

Atomic Heart 2 Aims for Deeper RPG Integration

Open World Exploration and More Dynamic Environments

While Atomic Heart 2 remains a few years from release, developer Mundfish is offering a clearer picture of what to anticipate. In a Q&A with Wccftech, CEO Robert Bagratuni detailed plans for a more substantial RPG layer, emphasizing a living game world packed with engaging activities.

"Yes, we are enhancing the RPG systems for Atomic Heart 2, but we're implementing it in true Mundfish fashion – woven directly into the world and core experience, not just added as superficial complexity," he explained.

Although the original Atomic Heart was praised for its unique Soviet sci-fi aesthetic, inventive weapons, and experimental combat, Mundfish recognized its open-world elements needed refinement. Criticisms centered on limited interactivity, with players requesting more dynamic events and immersive depth.

Bagratuni responded directly to this feedback: "We've listened closely to all critiques, and we know the open-world experience in the first game had its flaws. With Atomic Heart 2, we are committed to significantly improving it."

To enrich this vision, Atomic Heart 2 will feature a "more open structure" with "larger, interconnected spaces that grant greater freedom to explore, revisit locations, and engage with various systems." The game's Summer Games Fest 2025 debut showcased new vehicles and traversal tools, such as paragliding. Bagratuni stressed the importance of discovery and replayability beyond the central narrative.

Elaborating further, Mundfish aims for the environment to feel "less like a static backdrop" and more like a reactive, living world. While specifics are still under wraps, players can anticipate "dynamic elements like time of day and weather influencing both the atmosphere and gameplay mechanics."

Bagratuni also assured that "everything remains anchored in the story and internal world logic – the expanded scale is intended to enhance immersion, not overwhelm it."

Player Choice and Narrative Influence

Bagratuni noted that "various activities" between major story missions will reward player curiosity. This likely points to expanded side quests and unlockables. However, the developer was clear that all content will complement the core experience.

"We are not creating a checklist-driven open world. Everything retains the handcrafted, surreal quality our fans appreciate," he stated.

Players will also enjoy increased narrative agency, with more sway over mission outcomes and in-game events. Bagratuni hinted at companion-based interactions, though the full scope of this feature is yet to be detailed. Currently, there is no official confirmation on whether allies will play a more active role in gameplay or the story.

Enhanced Progression, Customization, and Skill Systems

Without delving into specifics, Bagratuni acknowledged combat as a standout strength of the original—a foundation the team aims to elevate. Mundfish is focusing on deeper weapon customization, broader skill trees, and more impactful progression to allow players greater control over their combat style.

"The visceral feel, the variety, the creative problem-solving in combat—the positive reception to those elements meant a great deal and set a high standard for the sequel," Bagratuni said. "With Atomic Heart 2, we're pushing further. To ensure quality, we've begun internal playtesting much earlier. Whether it's moment-to-moment gunplay, skill utilization, or enemy AI, our goal is to make every encounter more engaging, tactical, and rewarding."

Atomic Heart 2 is in active development for PC and consoles (PS5 & Xbox Series X|S). For the latest updates on the game, explore our detailed coverage below!