In a monumental announcement at the 2024 Smite World Championship, Hi-Rez Studios reveals the highly-anticipated standalone sequel, Smite 2.
Breaking away from the traditional MOBA mold, Smite 2 retains the beloved third-person perspective but undergoes a complete reconstruction using Unreal Engine 5, promising a visually stunning and technologically advanced gaming experience.
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Next-Gen Upgrades and Gameplay Innovations
Smite 2 aims to elevate the player experience with substantial visual upgrades, introducing new animations and effects for the diverse pantheon of playable gods. Built on Unreal Engine 5, this sequel represents a leap forward in technology, offering a chance for players to immerse themselves in an even more visually captivating world. General Manager Travis Brown notes, "Smite 2 is a chance to do it all strictly better."
Beyond aesthetics, Smite 2 introduces significant gameplay improvements. Five new gods, starting with Hecate, the Greek goddess of sorcery, will join the roster during the alpha playtest in Spring 2024. The backend and matchmaking systems receive an overhaul, accompanied by new map features and a redesigned UI.
In a strategic shift, Smite 2 eliminates restrictions on gods, allowing them to build all items, scaling abilities based on Strength and Intelligence stats. Relics are removed entirely, providing players with enhanced flexibility to adapt their builds dynamically during a match.
Legacy Systems and Standalone Continuation
To preserve the legacy of the original game, Smite 2 developers plan to introduce a Legacy system, acknowledging the investments made by veteran players in the past decade. However, not all content will transition, as skins released before Year 11 won't carry over due to the sheer volume of content created over the years. Importantly, Smite 2 will coexist alongside its predecessor, ensuring the continued availability and support for Smite 1.
Set for release on PC, Steam Deck, Xbox Series X and S, and PlayStation 5, Smite 2 promises full crossplay support, fostering a unified gaming community. Alpha playtest signups are now live, offering players an early glimpse into the evolution of the iconic MOBA experience.
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