Frostpunk 2 17+

I encourage developers to do some last mile fine tunings to optimize performance

My updated review (on version 1.1.0, Oct 29):

The issue of game randomly crashing has been solved completely with the new updates. The game has become very stable and it feels reliable now (which is a very good feeling when you’re going through a whiteout:) ). The graphics settings have been updated, and now users can set the settings to the recommended values. However, I still have complaints about the UI resolution. As I said, the game graphics are perfect if I set my 14-inch MacBook Pro’s display resolution to 3024*1964. Everything becomes so clear and appealing. However, that higher resolution introduces a lot of unnecessary computational overhead, because my laptop’s native resolution is 1512*982, and I believe that the game uses some scaling to try to match that resolution. That’s why the text and all the elements in the game look extremely blurry. Yet, given the fact that the developers fixed the sound issues very quickly, I have a hunch that the scaling issues will be fixed pretty much soon too. One last thing: the game stops responding to inputs if I switch spaces (MacOS Mission Control—think about checking my email). This didn’t happen in the previous version.

My original review for version 1.8 (which I downloaded around October 15th and came before the updated version of the game, 1.1.0):

The game crashes randomly. I’ve seen people on Reddit suggesting interesting workarounds by giving the crash log to ChatGPT. One of the solutions that worked for me was running the game with no sound. But this is not my point. I’m saying that good developers and engineers like you can utilize every resources (even chatbots) to fix such frustrating and easy-to-fix issues. By the way, is this game optimized for macOS? How about any other platform? Also, the fonts are crispy. I have a 14-inch Mac. Why is the game’s native resolution is 3024*1964? And it uses scaling to fit to the default resolution of my laptop (1512*982). I would assume this adds a lot of unnecessary computational overhead. Overall, it’s without a doubt that a lot of effort has been put on this game, but these last mile fine tunings will hugely enhance user experience.

Developer Response ,

Please check if the issue has been resolved in the latest version. This update includes an important fix for audio crashes that were frequently reported.

If the issue persists please contact our Player Support here:
https://11bitstudios.com/faq/?filter_game=frostpunk-2

Really want to give this game 5 stars, but…

Frostpunk 2 is a great sequel to the original, which is one of my favorite games. There is one big issue that I hope the developers will find a solution to: all building options are not available in the Building and Districts tabs after researching enough new buildings because you are not able to scroll the pop-up menu left and right (at least on my MacBookAir). I was able to circumvent this by changing the resolution to “more space” (Apple apparently thinks Air users are incapable of understanding number as resolution options) but then the game is no longer full-screen. I’m left to then change the resolution every time I need to access the building button farthest right on the pop-up menu, then change back once I’m done using it. Happy to change my review if this is fixed, or I’ve missed something. I am also not able to change the angle of view and the description of key binds on the tutorial for key binds is not Mac specific (e.g. “Hold left Alt - Buildings overlay”), but neither of these problems prevent you from effectively playing the game beyond a certain point like the first issue does.

Keeps Crashing

I really want to love this game. The first Frostpunk was one of my all-time favorites, and from what little I’ve been able to play of Frostpunk 2, it has all the hallmarks of being even better. The atmosphere is rich and immersive, and the added mechanics and depth feel like a natural evolution of the original game.

However, I’m stuck—literally. The game crashes partway through the second mission every time I try to progress. I’ve tried troubleshooting, adjusting settings, and even reinstalling, but nothing has worked. It’s frustrating because everything I’ve experienced so far tells me this could easily become my new favorite game if only I could play it.

Until these stability issues are resolved, it’s hard to recommend Frostpunk 2, despite its obvious potential. I’ll keep an eye out for patches, and I genuinely hope the developers can iron out these bugs. This is a game I want to fall in love with—it just needs to let me.