Axial Disc 2

Fun robust chiptune pixel JRPG made by SawyerFriend. Gameplay system of eight skill slots per character is much like that of Axial Disc 1, now used by a new set of protagonists (who can equip and use all the defensive gear, items and eater eyes you ported over from Disc 1, which is nice). Storywise, the first part takes place before/during the events of Disc 1. Though protagonist wise... it can be a bit... difficult... to root for a protagonist that uses t-phobic slurs just because he's compensating for low self-esteem and ego problems. The Disc 1 protagonists weren't nearly as dubious in comparison, considering their personalities and character quirks (like Sai's ridiculous-yet-endearingly-dorky formal accent and the like).

I've play tested this game extensively and seen most of what it has to offer and I can say it is an extremely rewarding "disc 2" of the series. After a fairly quick series of events that parallels the timeline of Axial Disc 1, the game starts treading new ground and plays like an extensive post-game, complete with optional dungeons, multiple endings, secret characters, hidden items, and super bosses that rival Ozma or the Emerald Weapon. I would say it is absolutely essential to complete a play through of Axial Disc 1 (free) for the gameplay and the story to make sense. For players who enjoyed the turn based combat, endless character customization, and quirky and varied cast of the first disc, this follow up is a must-play.

I streamed this game on Twitch, playthorugh linked here => https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL7cfU4w5LPDugfUYiroMWfxJRLzdywoMz 10/10 highly recommend, this is my personal game of the year now as I love the lore, combat, music, and characters of this game. This game also won't hold your hand if you don't plan things out accurately. I do feel frustration, but it generally feels like my fault if I don't prepare accordingly. I love it. If I had to nitpick, I guess I don't like having to constantly swap people to use their abilities, other than that, I love this game, please buy it.

[Axial Disc 2: This time it's Disc] is a phenomenal blend of [c]hiptunes, gameboy aesthetic, and teen melodrama whi[c]h [c]ulminates in a game that's equal part love-letter to RPGs and thesis statement on why they should [c]hange. It has been [c]rafted with a lot of love by people who know what they want and have set out to make something whi[c]h is not only unique, but is special in and of its own right. If you like RPGs in any small way, I feel like you owe it to yourself to play Axial and engage in what is - at its [c]ore - a great story with fun [c]hara[c]ters, but also manages to be a treatise in design at the same time. In short: It's bretty gud.

Sequel to Axial Disc 1 it feels more like a continuation of the game than a sequel more than likely the reason for the naming. It seems to be more of the same with some considerable differences in battle with specific screens for summons and you get a special attack with each character! I just completed the game and true to the naming convention and developers intention this did feel like a continuation of the story of the first game. As if the events of the first game was to lead up to the second game, it gives you a lot of cool secrets and side content to take care of but doesn't overwhelm you. Overall this was a fantastic experience and I highly recommend checking out Disc 1 first if you haven't already.

Axial Disc 2 is an excellent sequel to Disc 1 (which is free to play), a fun turn-based RPG with plenty of depth and customisation. Building onto the intriguing world created in Disc 1, this game sheds a new perspective of the events that transpired, and completes the story with new locations and dungeons to explore, plenty of hidden secrets to be discovered, and optional end game content including powerful super-bosses to challenge players. Disc 2 features new playable cast members, each with their own unique strengths and skills. It is rewarding for those who spend the time delving into the system and choosing carefully how to build their party members. I’m playing this game on the steam deck and it has no problems running on it.

its great. it improves on axial disc 1 in almost every way. there's more strategies, more [c]haracters, more bosses, better [c]ombat, better music, and i'd say better story. it's definitely one of my games of the year. please do yourself a favor, [c]heck out the axial series.

Axial Disc 2, developed by Sawyer Friend and published by Gem Games, is a confident and thoughtfully expanded sequel that builds meaningfully on the tactical and narrative groundwork of the original Axial Disc. Rooted in classic turn-based RPG traditions yet infused with modern design sensibilities, the game delivers a layered experience that balances character-driven storytelling, strategic combat customization, and exploratory depth within a vibrant pixel-art world. Set once again in the universe of Stardust City, Axial Disc 2 both complements and extends the events of its predecessor. Rather than simply retreading familiar ground, it shifts perspective and expands the narrative scope, following a new core cast—most notably Chip and his companions—as they confront emerging threats and explore previously unseen corners of the setting. The storytelling unfolds with deliberate pacing, allowing character relationships, internal conflicts, and motivations to evolve organically. Dialogue feels purposeful, revealing not only plot progression but also emotional undercurrents that deepen investment in the journey. Combat remains the backbone of the experience, and this is where Axial Disc 2 truly distinguishes itself. The turn-based system has been refined to emphasize flexibility and player agency. The introduction of expanded command systems and sub-commands significantly broadens tactical options. Each character can be customized with different abilities, skill combinations, and support roles, encouraging experimentation and strategic planning. Battles reward thoughtful synergy rather than brute-force stat grinding, and enemy encounters often demand adaptation rather than repetition. Boss fights, in particular, serve as highlights, testing understanding of mechanics and party composition. Customization is one of the sequel’s most compelling strengths. Rather than locking characters into rigid archetypes, the game allows players to tailor builds to suit preferred strategies. This system fosters replayability and gives battles a dynamic quality, as different configurations can drastically alter outcomes. The strategic layer feels more intricate and satisfying compared to the first installment, demonstrating a clear evolution in design philosophy. Exploration also receives expanded attention. Stardust City feels larger and more alive, with hidden districts, optional dungeons, and side content that meaningfully enhance the core narrative. Secret areas and challenging bonus encounters reward curiosity, providing powerful equipment and narrative insights for those willing to venture off the main path. The world design strikes a balance between guidance and openness, ensuring that players feel encouraged—but not overwhelmed—to explore. Visually, Axial Disc 2 embraces a retro-inspired pixel-art aesthetic that evokes classic 16-bit RPGs while incorporating modern polish. Character sprites are expressive, environments are colorful and varied, and battle animations maintain clarity without sacrificing style. The visual presentation reinforces the nostalgic tone while avoiding stagnation. Complementing the art direction is an energetic chiptune soundtrack that adapts well to both tranquil exploration segments and high-intensity combat scenarios, maintaining immersion throughout extended play sessions. The game’s pacing reflects a careful balance between story beats, combat progression, and exploration. Narrative moments are interwoven with gameplay rather than interrupting it, allowing momentum to build naturally. Optional content does not feel like filler but instead acts as a meaningful extension of the world and its challenges. This cohesive structure makes the overall experience feel purposeful and well-paced. While Axial Disc 2 is clearly designed as a sequel, it remains approachable for newcomers, especially since the original game provides foundational context and can be experienced beforehand. However, returning players will likely appreciate the refinements most strongly, as the sequel demonstrates a clear understanding of what worked previously and where improvement was needed. Ultimately, Axial Disc 2 stands as a testament to iterative indie development done right. It refines its tactical systems, deepens narrative engagement, and broadens its world without abandoning the charm that defined its origins. For players who appreciate strategic turn-based combat, character-focused storytelling, and retro aesthetics elevated by modern customization depth, it offers a substantial and rewarding RPG experience that feels both nostalgic and forward-thinking. Rating: 6/10