Creator Tom Happ first unveiled the game during the October 2020 Indie World presentation, though it was delayed from its intended release date of later that year.
Axiom Verge 2 boasts a larger map and several new features, including drones, enemy hacking, and a built-in speedrun mode.
Here’s how Happ describes it (thanks, Gematsu):
Expansive non-linear exploration of a huge interconnected map. Hack any enemy with unique and interesting consequences for each. Launch a remote drone with its own separate abilities and behaviors. Speedrun Mode — play with a streamlined interface and additional features to facilitate speedrunning. Plus one other major feature players will be excited to discover on their own
Despite being a numbered sequel, Axiom Verge 2 is a standalone experience you can play whether you’ve finished the original or never even heard of it — although the original is certainly worth giving a try if you haven’t.