Atomic Heart 2 Q&A: Development Insights on Creating a Tighter and More Immersive Experience

Atomic Heart 2 Q&A: Development Insights on Creating a Tighter and More Immersive Experience

During the Summer Game Fest 2025 event, the development team at Mundfish, known for their work on Atomic Heart, showcased a range of exciting new projects. Among these were a highly anticipated sequel to Atomic Heart, an online multiplayer title named The CUBE, and a forthcoming survival horror game titled ILL.

As the anticipation builds, we once again connected with Robert Bagratuni, the Founder, CEO, and Game Director at Mundfish. Having previously interviewed him in the lead-up to the release of Atomic Heart, we were eager to gain insights into these new games, starting with Atomic Heart 2. This sequel is particularly notable, as the original game has captivated over 10 million players, making the rollout of its successor eagerly awaited.

While the expanding scope of Atomic Heart 2 promises to elevate the experience, it also suggests that players may have to wait longer to immerse themselves in this new chapter. This isn’t unexpected, considering the first game debuted just two years prior. Scroll down to explore the complete Q&A session for deeper insights.

‘Everything in the trailer was captured in-engine using Unreal Engine 5, featuring a blend of gameplay sequences and in-game cinematics. While we’re not diving into extensive gameplay analysis just yet, what’s presented gives a tantalizing glimpse of our key creative directions.’

Setting and Story Continuation

Hello, Robert. Can you specify the timeline for Atomic Heart 2 and which ending from the original game will be followed?

Atomic Heart 2 is set a few years after the events of the first game, weaving together narrative elements from its multiple endings and the forthcoming fourth DLC. Although we are firmly rooted in the original’s visionary dystopia, the sequel will explore diverse retro-futuristic environments worldwide, shaped by the repercussions of the original’s events.

Art Direction and Cultural Influences

Many users have noted a more Western influence in the trailer. Will this be reflected in the game?

While we retain the beloved art style and atmospheric elements from the original, we are also broadening the emotional landscape. The selection of Queen’s classic “Don’t Stop Me Now” in our trailer is not indicative of a shift in direction but rather an expansion of our expressive range. Interestingly, this track was released in the USSR on vinyl as “КВИН – Не останавливай меня, ” which aligns perfectly with our Radio of the Future concept, bridging cultures. Players can expect an array of music that enhances the immersion, reminiscent of the iconic tracks from Atomic Heart.

Trailer Insights

How much of the trailer consisted of gameplay versus cinematics?

The trailer was crafted entirely in-engine utilizing Unreal Engine 5, showcasing a mix of gameplay and cinematic moments. We’re currently not delving deeply into gameplay specifics, but what we’ve shown offers insight into some key design directions. Combat mechanics are evolving, promising a wider variety of encounters, including enhanced glove abilities and challenging boss fights. For more gameplay visuals, check out our extended showcase on YouTube.

The CUBE: An Expanded Universe

Beyond Atomic Heart 2, we are excited to introduce The CUBE, a substantial MMO RPG shooter set in the aftermath of the first game. This title promises to expand the narrative depth as well as the structural dynamics of the universe. The CUBE itself is a critical component of the lore, blending seamlessly into the timeline rather than merely being an added multiplayer layer. Players will navigate this evolving world, revealing secrets and consequences tied to events from the original game.

Character Continuity

Will P-3 return, and are there plans for additional playable characters in Atomic Heart 2?

Fans of the first game should be pleased to know that familiar characters, including P-3, will be making a return in the sequel. Their stories will unfold further, although specifics about P-3’s role remain undisclosed. We aim to weave recognizable threads from the original while introducing fresh perspectives and characters.

World Design and Exploration

The sequel’s game world appears significantly larger. Can we consider it an open world, complete with dynamic weather and day/night cycles?

This is a great point! Player feedback has been invaluable to our development process. In Atomic Heart 2, we are indeed increasing the openness of the game structure, providing interconnected spaces that encourage exploration and interaction. Our design will incorporate vehicles and new methods of traversal, enhancing player freedom. We plan to include dynamic elements such as time of day and weather to enrich gameplay, all grounded in a narrative context to maintain immersion.

Expanded RPG Elements

What can you share about the new RPG features and activities players can expect?

We are excited to introduce a more intricate RPG layer in Atomic Heart 2, seamlessly integrated into the gameplay rather than being an addition for mere complexity. This “living world” concept aims to make the environment feel more dynamic and responsive. With progressions such as deeper weapon customization and skill trees, players will have much greater flexibility in shaping their unique playstyle. We will also incorporate various activities designed to encourage exploration without turning the game into a checklist of tasks.

Player Choices and Companionship

Will players face choices that significantly impact the narrative? Are companions a part of the new game?

Atomic Heart 2 will indeed provide players with more agency in their decision-making, where choices will influence narrative outcomes and mission dynamics. As for companions, while I cannot share too much, I can confirm that players will not be entirely on their own throughout the journey.

Combat System Improvements

What additional features are being implemented to enhance gameplay combat?

The combat experience was a highlight of the original game, and we are committed to elevating that in Atomic Heart 2. The positive reception has set a high standard, prompting us to initiate playtesting much earlier in the development process to ensure a refined, engaging combat system.

Development Update

What is the current stage of the game’s development? When can we expect further updates?

Currently, Atomic Heart 2 is in active development and has moved beyond the prototype phase. While we are still a few years away from launch, our focus is on refining every aspect for a polished, immersive experience. More updates will be shared as we reach key developmental milestones.

Thank you for your time, Robert.

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