Mortal Shell 2, one of the most anticipated soulslike titles releasing in August, has received positive feedback from critics. The PC version currently holds an 84 on Metacritic from 37 reviews, while the PS5 version sits at 85 from 11 reviews. Even before its official launch on August 20, the title secured a 'Very Positive' rating on Steam with over 1,000 reviews during early access.

Mortal Shell 2 is the sequel to the 2020 debut by Cold Symmetry. The narrative returns to the same world, tasking players with the journey to retrieve an 'Undermether' egg guarded by monsters. The core mechanics remain centered on the 'Shell' system—allowing players to inhabit the remains of fallen warriors to gain new abilities—and the absence of a traditional stamina gauge.

Many critics praised the refinement of the Shell system in their early reviews. They noted that the ability to experiment with various classes while utilizing Shell-based progression allows for a more strategic approach. Removing the stamina bar creates a distinct rhythm that sets it apart from other soulslike games, providing a satisfying sense of freedom when constructing builds around specific Shells and weapons.

Beyond the mechanics, reviewers highlighted the immersive exploration, a more polished map design than its predecessor, and a dark fantasy narrative that feels relatively accessible compared to other soulslike games. While perhaps not a total revolution, it is a well-crafted effort that addresses previous shortcomings, and it is highly recommended for fans of the genre.

Early adopters on Steam are echoing these sentiments. Alongside the gameplay mechanics, the stable optimization and a fair price point (54,800 KRW) have been noted as strengths. Players are also expressing hope that minor tweaks to issues like the camera system could elevate the experience even further.

Mortal Shell 2 launches on August 20 for PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X/S, featuring Korean subtitle support.