The Game of Life 2 Review

An Updated Classic

Nostalgia is a key aspect of The Game of Life 2. Anyone who played the original board game as a child will recognize the intricate weaving of the classic family game and an upbeat, in your pocket version of this adventurous life simulator. If the Hasbro board game was perfect for sitting around a table with friends or family, then the mobile sequel by Marmalade Game Studio is perfect for today’s socially distanced world.

The Game of Life 2 comes packed with new careers and opportunities that make sense for today’s world. These new careers widely range from creative, hands-on, service, and STEM jobs, giving quite the variety. Seeing jobs that you have an interest in is certainly appealing when playing a life simulation. Along with interesting new careers, the game also offers realistic life events and actions that are unique and relevant in the present day.

The Game of Life 2 is far more progressive than its board game predecessor, is allowing for diverse identities and lifestyle choices. Firstly, instead of limiting players to pink (female) or blue (male) ‘pegs’ to represent themselves and their spouse, this title adds a third purple peg option for those who identify as non-binary. Secondly, when you land on an adoption space, you can choose to adopt either a baby or a pet. Both small additions make The Game of Life 2 more inclusive and welcoming to all identities and types of families.

The Gameplay

Much like the original board game, gameplay in The Game of Life 2 is rather straightforward. You roll to move and take an action or accept your fate with each roll. There are four ways to play—single player, pass and play, online multiplayer, and multiplayer with friends. Much like an actual board game, every playthrough is different. On that note, the music earns high praise from me as well, as I probably played through twenty different times, and those bops never got old. This game certainly passes a replayability test.

Taking all of that into consideration, there are a few rather disappointing aspects that I should point out. Quite a few things are only available when you land on the correct space. Things like repaying a loan, buying a house, and having children or pets could potentially be missed if you are unlucky with your rolls. Of course, you are unlikely to experience the same issue across multiple playthroughs. However, these life events seem like something that should be slightly easier to come by.

What’s the Meaning of Life?

Happiness, knowledge, and wealth tokens are the main winning components of this game, apart from making money. Happiness is gained by getting married, having children or pets, and completing actions such as traveling or throwing parties. You acquire knowledge by going to college and picking up skills such as learning a new language. Wealth is acquired when you buy a house or invest in new technology, furniture, or accessories. Do not fret; there are later options to go back to school and get married after the main paths have been passed up.

You can purchase The Game of Life 2 for $3.99, and this gives you access to the entire map. However, there is a second “fairy tale” map that you can purchase in-game for $4.99. The developers continue to create new maps, which will be available to purchase upon release. In the shop, you may also purchase bonus character design items such as outfits, avatars, and vehicles for $0.99 apiece.

The Game of Life 2 brings back the classic feel of the tabletop game while living up to the expectations of our current decade. With upgraded careers, activities, and identities, this game is playable for everyone. There is always a possibility that you might not get everything you want in one round but playing again is part of the fun. Whether you choose to go it alone or compete with a friend, The Game of Life 2 is an engaging game that will fill you with childhood nostalgia.