GIRLS’ FRONTLINE 2: EXILIUM is a 3D action-adventure RPG gacha game with strong elements of turn-based combat, and cyberpunk military aesthetic, inspired by XCOM and Metal Gear Solid series. This game throws you into a post-apocalyptic world as a commander leading a squad of Dolls or android soldiers.

GIRLS’ FRONTLINE 2: EXILIUM follows your journey through a vast map filled with contaminated zones, encountering new characters and uncovering a hidden conspiracy. Battle through waves of enemies, strategize your next attack, and acquire new characters as you level up — giving you access to customize them from clothing, appearance, skills, and weapons.

A unique blend of strategy and role playing

GIRLS’ FRONTLINE 2: EXILIUM’s turn-based combat focuses on positioning and leveraging cover mechanics for tactical victories. Weapon customization allows you to personalized arsenals, and the 3D character models are a visual treat. Beyond battles, you can build relationships with your Dolls through gifts and unlock special interactions exclusive to a specific character. You can grind for items or pay to acquire various upgrades in the game, giving you many options.

The game has full 3D models of the characters, enemies, and the surrounding map area. It has a main storyline divided into campaigns. You can play through Time-Limited Events. There’s a Refitting Room where you customize your characters, and the Public Area is the social space where other online players can interact. Recruitment is for teams, and Shop is where you can purchase upgrades through points and real-world money.

While the narrative is intriguing, the game itself is not beginner-friendly, and you have to assume some knowledge of the first game in the series. Also, keep in mind the game's demanding technical requirements. It requires at least 4 GB of RAM and 18 GB of storage, potentially excluding older devices. Additionally, some players report performance issues such as game freezes, latency, and app crashes which could affect your gameplay experience.

A welcome addition to the turn-based genre

GIRLS’ FRONTLINE 2: EXILIUM presents a compelling strategic experience with a captivating world and strong character bonds between them and you. The customizations are a win, and so is the main campaign. The Public Space is also great for relaxation after battle, while the constant event updates give you endless replayability. However, its high technical demands, performance issues, and learning knowledge needed for newcomers are something to consider before diving in.