Kerbal Space Program 2 is now available in PC early access on Steam, the Epic Games Store, and other digital storefronts. The new game builds upon the 2015 original, allowing gamers to create their own space program, sending their team of hapless Kerbals out to explore the cosmos or die trying.

This sequel to the original rocket simulation game offers players over 350 original and improved parts as well as a new part colouring tool to customise their creations. The sequel also welcomes a brand-new generation of space explorers with interactive, animated tutorials that teach the basics of rocketry. Players can also expect many other improvements, including a completely redesigned UI, more user-friendly vehicle assembly tools, and new Map View iconography.

The early access game is available for an introductory price of AU$77.95, allowing players to jump in early as the gameplay is fine-tuned and features added. Not only will players get to enjoy the game as it progresses toward the retail release, but once the completed game is available, players will have full access to the final version of the game.

Additional upcoming features for Kerbal Space Program 2 include:

• Next-Generation Technology: Players will unlock future technologies, allowing them to build at larger scales and use new fuels and propulsion systems.
• Colonies: Players will be able to locate and extract valuable resources, then use those materials to build custom bases on distant celestial bodies or in deep space.
• Interstellar Travel: Venture across the gulf of interstellar space inside fusion-powered megaships capable of incredible speeds.
• Multiplayer: Players will be able to both cooperate and compete with friends to explore space together and achieve historic milestones in their own space race.
• Modding: Kerbal fans are keen to share the plethora of mods available for the original game, and Intercept Games plans to make the sequel even more mod-friendly by releasing additional developments aimed to support the modding community.

Watch out for my hands-on early access impressions soon.