Exploding Kittens® 2 is the sequel to the quirky and beloved game, Exploding Kittens. This card game features Russian Roulette-like mechanics but with a playful cat theme. Players take turns drawing cards, aiming to avoid the dreaded exploding kitten card that leads to elimination.

While it continues to use the familiar deck of special cards, which include abilities to peek at the deck, force opponents to draw multiple cards, or shuffle the deck, Exploding Kittens® 2 introduces several enhancements. Players can enjoy expanded customization options, new game modes, and a variety of additional kitties.

New features and game modes

Exploding Kittens® 2 lets you customize your avatar with trendy seasonal outfits, adding a more personalized touch to your gameplay. The game also allows for the personalization of emoji sets, enabling you to express reactions and communicate non-verbally in a fun and humorous way. Additionally, the sequel introduces new animations that bring dynamic visuals to the cards, enriching the overall aesthetic.

The game offers various gameplay modes. You can play solo against AI opponents, even offline. Play With Strangers lets you compete against random online players, while Play With Friends allows you to invite friends using a Room Code for a more exclusive experience. However, accessing special cards in private games requires all participants to purchase additional DLC, which might be a drawback due to the extra cost.

Another potential drawback is the extremely slow gameplay. While the new animations are visually appealing, they make the game feel lengthy and sluggish. Many animations are unnecessary, and there’s no option to skip them. Unlike its predecessor's fast-paced approach, this sequel features slow turn-by-turn mechanics and excessive waiting times. Additionally, the sound is quite subdued, with no voice lines — only emotes and background music.

A hit or miss

Exploding Kittens® 2 enhances the original game's charm with new features and customization options. However, despite its visual appeal and expanded game modes, the sequel struggles with slow gameplay and excessive waiting times. The need for additional DLC to access special cards might also be a concern for some players. Overall, while it brings new elements, the experience might not fully match the brisk pace of its predecessor.