Playdate Season Two has officially arrived, delighting fans of the quirky yellow handheld console with two new games released every week until July 3. If the initial two titles are any indication, gamers can expect an exhilarating season packed with unique experiences. Kicking off on May 29, Season Two introduced players to the arcade action game Fulcrum Defender, developed by the studio behind the critically acclaimed FTL: Faster Than Light and Into the Breach. Alongside this, players can dive into the delightfully laid-back Dig! Dig! Dino!. These two games, while vastly different in style and gameplay, both offer exceptional entertainment value.
Fulcrum Defender presents players with the challenge of surviving for 10 minutes in a frantic shooter experience. Initially, the game's instruction manual felt intimidating, full of on-screen information, diverse enemy types, and various weapon upgrades. However, while the game's Hard Mode may pose a substantial challenge, the Normal Mode offers a manageable yet engaging experience. The gameplay allows players to immerse themselves without the overwhelming stress often associated with shooter games.
In Fulcrum Defender, players find themselves at the center of a circular arena, tasked with fending off relentless waves of enemies. Any enemy that collides with your shield causes damage, and once enough breaches occur, it's game over. To prevent this, players must utilize the crank to aim their weapon and the D-pad to shoot. Some enemies can be eliminated with a single shot, while others require multiple hits, adding depth to the gameplay. As players progress, they can unlock powerful weapon upgrades, including large guided projectiles and a flail that can take out several foes in one swing. This combination of strategy and skill makes the game surprisingly addictive.
The soothing soundtrack adds a calming atmosphere to the otherwise chaotic environment, allowing players to enjoy the game even while under constant threat. Once I realized that surviving beyond the 10-minute mark was achievable, I found myself caught in a loop of attempting to beat my high scores. A global leaderboard would be a fantastic addition, as I can only imagine the impressive records set by other players. For those interested in the development process, be sure to check out our interview with Jay Ma, co-founder of Fulcrum Defender developer Subset Games.
If you’re looking for a more relaxed gaming experience, Dig! Dig! Dino! is the perfect choice. This game offers an opportunity to step into the shoes of a paleontologist, digging for dinosaur bones alongside a crew of adorable anthropomorphic animals. The gameplay revolves around excavating fossils and artifacts, gradually piecing together the skeletons of various dinosaurs. Once you've assembled a complete skeleton, you can scan it in the lab to uncover fascinating details about its life.
The game is low-stakes and perfect for those moments when you want to unwind. Equipped with a shovel, drill, and a radar gadget, players can explore the excavation site at their own pace. Although there’s no time limit, players must manage their energy, as each tool usage consumes energy. When energy runs out, the round ends, but you can revisit sites multiple times to discover all hidden treasures. This casual gameplay experience makes Dig! Dig! Dino! not only enjoyable but also incredibly accessible, allowing players to pick up where they left off with ease.
As a bonus addition to the first Season Two games, Blippo+ takes players on a surreal journey through a 1-bit television experience. Originally teased as a Steam title by Panic back in December 2024, this unique game is now available on the Playdate. Players can tune into a variety of channels featuring hallucinatory programs and an interactive message board called Femtofax. This platform showcases affirmations, local drama, and conversations among amateur astronomers, creating a whimsical and engaging experience.
Panic describes Blippo+ as reminiscent of an old The Twilight Zone episode, but it feels more like a Tim & Eric production aired during the late-night hours on Adult Swim. The bizarre nature of the game is captivating, leaving players intrigued and eager to explore its many strange offerings. For anyone seeking an unconventional gaming experience, Blippo+ is sure to leave a lasting impression.
With the arrival of Playdate Season Two, players have a variety of new gaming experiences to enjoy, from the intense action of Fulcrum Defender and the relaxing adventure of Dig! Dig! Dino! to the bizarre world of Blippo+. This season promises to keep gamers entertained and engaged, making the quirky yellow handheld console an even more exciting addition to any gaming collection.
