A Bigger World to Explore: Planet of Lana 2’s Unique Mechanics and Evolved Gameplay

The original Planet of Lana enchanted players with its beautiful, hand-painted art style, cinematic storytelling, and a heartfelt bond between a young girl and her loyal companion. As a puzzle platformer, it was a masterclass in atmosphere and emotional depth. Now, its highly anticipated sequel, Planet of Lana 2: Children of the Leaf, promises to build on that foundation, offering an adventure that is not only bigger in scale but also introduces a host of unique new mechanics that will challenge even the most seasoned puzzle-solving veterans.

While the first game’s core loop was a charming blend of guiding Lana and her companion, Mui, to solve environmental puzzles and avoid threats, the sequel doubles down on this concept by evolving their abilities in unexpected ways. The developers at Wishfully Studios have openly stated that they learned a lot from the first game, and they’ve used that knowledge to create a more dynamic and engaging experience. The result is a game that feels both familiar and fresh, with Lana and Mui’s bond at the center of a more complex and expansive world.

The game’s narrative, which was previously a straightforward rescue mission, has been expanded into a deeper sci-fi saga. After saving their home from the robot invasion, Lana and Mui return to a world forever changed. They must now navigate a new reality where humanity has begun to greedily exploit the alien technology they once fought to destroy. This darker, more mature storyline provides a compelling backdrop for the new gameplay mechanics, which reflect Lana and Mui’s growth as characters and as a team.

Evolved Companion Gameplay and New Mechanics

The most significant change in Planet of Lana 2 is the evolution of Lana and Mui’s abilities. Their relationship is no longer just about guiding Mui to a specific spot; it’s about a deeper, more collaborative partnership.

• Enhanced Companion Control: In the first game, Mui’s commands were limited to a short range. Now, Lana can direct Mui to go almost anywhere on the screen, a change that opens up a world of new puzzle possibilities. This enhanced control allows for much more complex, multi-layered puzzles that require players to think about how both characters can work together, even when separated.
• Hypnosis and Creature Control: Mui’s ability to hypnotize creatures is no longer just for basic distractions. In the sequel, Mui can now fully “possess” certain creatures, allowing the player to control them directly. A hands-on preview showed Mui taking control of a bloated fly creature to collect and deposit water, or taking over an ink-spewing fish to create a visual barrier against a larger predator. This mechanic adds a layer of depth and variety to the puzzle design.
• Hacking and Technology: As Lana and Mui confront the new dangers of a post-invasion world, they must learn to adapt. Lana, who previously relied on stealth, has gained the ability to hack and control certain elements of the environment. One puzzle requires her to navigate a giant crate using magnets, a new mechanic that introduces a fresh, physics-based challenge to the series.
• Increased Agility and Action: Lana herself is now a more agile and capable protagonist. She can wall-jump, run faster, and slide into tight spaces, making for more fluid platforming and more thrilling action sequences. She can also swim, a new ability that opens up new biomes, including underwater chapters that were not present in the first game.

A Return to Beauty and Heart

Despite the new mechanics and darker storyline, Planet of Lana 2 retains the stunning visual and aural artistry that made the original a standout title. The hand-painted environments are even more varied this time around, with new biomes ranging from icy mountains to lush, tropical underwater worlds. Composer Takeshi Furukawa returns to provide a mesmerizing and emotional score that perfectly complements the game’s cinematic feel.

Ultimately, Planet of Lana 2 is shaping up to be a worthy sequel that takes everything players loved about the original and expands upon it in meaningful ways. By deepening the gameplay, broadening the narrative, and maintaining its signature art style, the game promises an unforgettable journey for both returning fans and new players. It’s a testament to the fact that indie games can offer an experience just as rich and engaging as their AAA counterparts, all while delivering a beautiful and emotional story.