Splitgate 2: A Portal-Packed Shooter That’s Fun—but Frustrating
Game Pass Grab Bag Podcast Recap
In this episode of Game Pass Grab Bag, the hosts dive into Splitgate 2, the sequel to the beloved portal-based first-person shooter. Known for its fast-paced gameplay and creative mechanics, the game aims to stand out in a crowded FPS market—but does it deliver? The crew explores what’s working, what’s not, and where this title could go next.
Scores
Andrew: 75 – Game
Keith: 77 – Game
Aaron: 79 – Game
Average: 77.0
🎮 A Familiar Formula with a Portal Twist
Splitgate 2 doubles down on the portal mechanics that made the original such a cult favorite. This time, it introduces a class system, giving players new roles to play and enhancing strategic depth across various game modes, including a battle royale.
“Players appreciate the fast-paced gameplay and movement mechanics.”
The core gameplay is still a blast: quick movement, tight gunplay, and satisfying portal maneuvers that open up endless flanking opportunities. It’s competitive, it’s chaotic, and when it clicks—it’s a good time.
💸 Microtransactions & Progression: A Stingy System
Unfortunately, the shine fades quickly when it comes to microtransactions. The hosts call out the monetization model for being “way too stingy”—with limited cosmetic rewards, overpriced items, and a progression system that lacks meaningful unlocks.
“It’s aggressively average,” one host summarizes, noting that even the in-game economy feels like a step backward.
🔊 Where’s the Personality?
Splitgate 2’s audio and visual design are… fine. But that’s part of the problem.
- The announcer, a staple in arena shooters, is forgettable this time around—missing that hype-inducing energy that made the original stand out.
- Visually, the game leans into bright, colorful aesthetics, but at the cost of depth or uniqueness. It can feel a little too polished—and a little too flat.
“It just feels generic,” the hosts agree.
🧱 Building Toward Something Bigger
While the game may not wow on all fronts, the potential is there. The podcast highlights a few key areas for growth:
- Custom game modes and community tools could help extend replayability.
- A richer progression system would give players more reasons to stick around.
- Better integration of the battle royale mode could set it apart from competitors.
“I want this game to survive,” one host adds, echoing a shared hope that future updates will push the game toward its full potential.
🟢 Final Thoughts
Splitgate 2 offers a solid, if unspectacular, shooter experience. The portal mechanics still shine, the class system adds variety, and the multiplayer matches are undeniably fun. But between underwhelming monetization, forgettable design elements, and lackluster progression, the game has some work to do.
Still, as a free or Game Pass title, it’s worth a try—especially with friends.
📌 TL;DR – Game Pass Grab Bag’s Take on Splitgate 2
- ✅ Fast-paced combat and portal mechanics are as fun as ever.
- ⚔️ Class system adds tactical depth across modes, including battle royale.
- 💸 Microtransactions and rewards system feel stingy and unrewarding.
- 🔇 Audio design lacks the energy that helped define the original.
- 🎨 Visuals are clean but lack character.
- 🔁 Needs better progression and community features to thrive.
🎧 Want the full breakdown? Check out the latest episode of Game Pass Grab Bag for unfiltered reviews, spicy takes, and more weekly recaps on the best (and worst) in gaming.
