Frostpunk 2’s Idea Tree is a Logical Progression From the OG’s Tech Tree

Frostpunk 2's Idea Tree is a Logical Progression From the OG's Tech Tree

As a seasoned strategy gaming enthusiast who has braved countless cold winters and city-building challenges in the original Frostpunk, I must say that Frostpunk 2’s Idea Tree has left me both intrigued and impressed. The first game was a solid foundation, but the sequel has taken the concept of a tech tree to new heights, or should I say, depths, given our sub-zero setting.


The element of advancement plays a crucial role in video games, particularly in the strategy genre. Whether it’s a Real-Time Strategy (RTS), a 4X game, or a city-building title, players crave a steady feeling of progression that encourages them to carry on playing. Often, this sense of advancement is conveyed through a technology tree, enabling the player to enhance their abilities, better their structures, and discover new units in many strategy games. Frostpunk 2 is an example of such a game.

In the game Frostpunk 2, players take control of a city from the 19th century that is on the verge of ruin. The objective is to skillfully manage essential resources such as warmth, sustenance, and shelter to keep the city’s inhabitants alive. To make resource management more streamlined, the player receives an extensive technology tree. Although it builds upon the foundation established by its predecessor, Frostpunk 2‘s Idea Tree includes notable enhancements.

How Frostpunk 2’s Idea Tree Compares to The First Game’s Tech Tree

Frostpunk 2’s Idea Tree Trades Cleanliness for Style

As a gamer, diving into my first Frostpunk experience, I was greeted by a well-organized, efficient tech tree that spells out the game’s technological progression like an open roadmap. A single glance at this tech tree reveals not only what I can immediately unlock, but also what future advancements are in store for me as the hours roll on. Each technology is distinctly marked with icons that hint at its in-game function, and the requirements for each tech are clearly stated upfront. Moreover, the tech tree’s branches are neatly defined by stark white lines, making it easy to navigate and understand the path I should take.

As a gamer, diving into Frostpunk 2’s Idea Tree feels like exploring a labyrinth of innovative thoughts. Unlike its predecessor, this sequel showcases technology in a more abstract manner, arranging its in-game advancements in a mind map layout that radiates from the core. At first glance, the research might seem less straightforward due to the new visual design, but let me tell you, it adds a touch of sophistication and production value that sets Frostpunk 2 apart.

Frostpunk 2’s Idea Tree Is Much Bigger Than Its Predecessor

One method to express a similar idea in simpler, conversational language: When comparing the tech trees in each Frostpunk game, it’s important to note their size. The first Frostpunk had four main categories: Heating, Exploration and Industry, Food & Health & Shelter, and Resources. At the beginning of the game, there were typically two technologies to investigate within each category, with an additional 2-4 tech options becoming available as the player progressed through each level.

In Frostpunk 2, the Idea Tree is divided into six main sections: Heating, Resources, Frostland, City, Society, and Hubs. Compared to the tech tree in the original game, these sections contain a larger number of individual research options. At the beginning of the game, players have more freedom to choose which technologies they want to focus on, with each section typically offering 4-6 potential technologies to start.

Frostpunk 2’s Idea Tree Impacts Its Social Mechanics

In Frostpunk 2, a significant change in the Idea Tree is that it directly influences the game’s social structures. Many of the research options within the Idea Tree offer multiple versions, each representing the ideals of different factions. For example, the Watchtowers technology comes in three distinct versions: Surveillance Watchtowers preferred by the Stalwarts, Patrol Watchtowers favored by the Pilgrims, and simple Watchtowers desired by both the New Londoners and Frostlanders. Each version has its own set of unique benefits and drawbacks, and choosing one will boost the player’s relationship with the corresponding faction, seamlessly integrating the game’s systems.

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2024-09-28 00:04