Humankind 2 announced, coming 2027, and promises climate change and “a new take on historical strategy”

Amplitude Studios has announced Humankind 2, the sequel to its 2021 historical 4X strategy game, during Gamescom’s Opening Night Live showcase. The game is scheduled for release in 2027.

Humankind 2 promises “a new take on historical strategy,” building on the original while introducing substantial improvements. The sequel features new progression systems, innovative mechanics, enhanced visuals, a modernized user interface, and various gameplay refinements informed by community feedback on the first game. A significant new addition is climate change mechanics, forcing players to manage environmental consequences as their civilization develops.

The core 4X gameplay loop remains central to the experience. Players guide their civilization through multiple historical eras using diplomacy, military power, and technological advancement to compete against rival civilizations. A key feature is cultural evolution—players adopt different cultures as they progress, with each choice expanding their civilization’s unique identity and unlocking exclusive customs and bonuses specific to their cultural heritage.

The announcement trailer sparked online discussion about whether it was AI-generated due to its distinctive visual style. Amplitude Studios clarified that the live-action trailer was filmed at Nu Boyana Film Studios in Sofia using real actors, practical sets, and custom-made props. The trailer presents a distinctive creative choice: it follows human history from the perspective of a newborn infant, offering an unconventional narrative framing for the announcement.

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