The CEO and Game Director of Atomic Heart 2 reveals key gameplay enhancements planned for the highly anticipated sequel. Dive into details about the upgraded Open World RPG framework, heightened narrative control, and deeply immersive side activities.

Atomic Heart 2 Targets a Richer RPG Experience

Deepened Exploration and Dynamic Environments

Although Atomic Heart 2 is still some years away from release, developer Mundfish has started revealing what fans can expect. In a recent Q&A highlighted by Wccftech, CEO and Game Director Robert Bagratuni detailed plans for an expanded RPG layer, emphasizing a living world filled with engaging activities.

"Yes, we’re introducing a more robust RPG system in Atomic Heart 2, but we’re doing it the Mundfish way—deeply integrated into the world and experience, rather than just added on for complexity."

While the original Atomic Heart was praised for its unique Soviet sci-fi aesthetic, innovative weapons, and experimental combat, Mundfish admitted there was room to enhance the open-world feel. The first game faced criticism for limited interactivity, with players requesting more dynamic events and a stronger sense of immersion.

Bagratuni addressed these concerns by stating, "We're listening closely to all feedback, so we know that the open world experience in AH1 wasn't perfect. With Atomic Heart 2, we aim to significantly improve this."

To enrich the environment, Atomic Heart 2 will feature a "much more open structure" with "larger, interconnected spaces that offer greater freedom for exploration, revisiting areas, and engaging with various systems." New vehicles and traversal methods—such as paragliding—were showcased during its Summer Games Fest 2025 premiere. Bagratuni emphasized expanded opportunities for discovery and replayability beyond the main storyline.

Expanding on this vision, Mundfish wants the game’s environment to feel "less like a static backdrop" and more like a living, responsive world. While full details are still under wraps, players can anticipate "dynamic elements such as time of day and weather influencing both mood and gameplay."

Additionally, Bagratuni noted that "everything remains grounded in story and world logic—the scale is designed to enhance immersion without overwhelming it."

Player-Driven Content and Narrative Control

Bagratuni clarified that "various activities" between main missions will reward curiosity. Although not explicitly stated, this likely refers to side quests and unlockable content. However, Mundfish made it clear that all additions serve the core experience.

"We’re not turning it into a checklist-style open-world game. Everything retains the handcrafted, surreal tone fans love."

Players can also expect greater narrative agency with more influence over missions and in-game events. Bagratuni hinted at companion-based interactions, though details remain scarce. As of now, there is no definitive confirmation that allies will play an active role in gameplay or story progression.

Enhanced Progression, Weapon Customization, and Skill Trees

While avoiding specific details, Bagratuni highlighted that combat was a standout feature of the original game—a area the team aims to build upon for the sequel. Mundfish is focusing on deeper weapon customization, expanded skill trees, and more meaningful progression paths to allow players greater control over their playstyle.

"The weight, variety, and creative freedom in how you approached each fight meant a lot to us, setting a high bar for the sequel," Bagratuni continued. "With Atomic Heart 2, we want to go even further. To ensure success, we’re starting internal playtesting much earlier this time around. Whether it’s moment-to-moment gunplay, skill usage, or enemy reactions, our goal is to make every fight feel better, deeper, and more satisfying than before."

Atomic Heart 2 is currently in development for PC and Consoles (PS5 & Xbox Series X|S). To stay updated with the latest news about the game, check out our article below!