Slay the Spire 2 is facing another wave of review bombing on Steam, this time centered on the involvement of Anita Sarkeesian as one of the game's consultants. Developed by Mega Crit, Slay the Spire 2 made its debut in Early Access back in March 2026. Right out of the gate, the title made a strong impression on the Valve platform, drawing massive player counts and even surpassing titles like Rust, ARC Raiders, Resident Evil Requiem, and Apex Legends.
However, the game has faced a rocky period since launch. In April 2026, the roguelike deckbuilder was at the center of controversy over balancing changes and accusations on social media that the developers were trying to dictate how players should enjoy the game. The backlash led to review bombing for Slay the Spire 2 on Steam. Although it appeared that the developers had taken the player feedback on board, the title is now being hit with negative reviews all over again for a completely different reason.
Slay the Spire 2's April Update Isn't Sitting Well With Players
Slay the Spire 2's first major update causes a second wave of review bombing, bringing its recent user rating to Mixed amid ongoing player backlash.
Slay the Spire 2 is Being Review Bombed Again
Over on Steam, Slay the Spire 2's recent reviews have now dropped to "Mostly Negative", with 66% of its reviews over the last 30 days being negative. The influx of recent negative reviews stems from the role of Sarkeesian, who has been credited as a consultant in the roguelike deckbuilder. Sarkeesian is known for her feminist media criticism and became a controversial figure during the 2014 Gamergate controversy due to her "Tropes vs. Women" YouTube series, which explored the portrayal of women in the gaming world. While her work received significant support, it also drew a lot of harassment from sections of the gaming community. Mega Crit has yet to directly address the wave of negative reviews or clarify the extent of Sarkeesian's involvement with the sequel.
Scratch & Peek
Identify the cover art while scratching off as little foil as possible.
Identify the cover art while scratching off as little foil as possible.
Slay the Spire 2 got off to an impressive start on Steam, particularly at launch, when it peaked at 282,314 concurrent players before eventually surpassing the half-million milestone. Since then, however, the game's player count has declined, with many fans voicing their frustration over the game's balance adjustments and gameplay changes. The latest wave of backlash marks the third time the game has been review-bombed in less than two months since its release.
Even though Mega Crit has rolled back many unpopular changes in Slay the Spire 2 over the last couple of updates, players over on Reddit and Twitter still believe that there's a lot of room for improvement. Meanwhile, a sizable portion of the community argues that the developers deserve more time to properly refine the experience, especially given that Slay the Spire 2 is still in an unfinished state.
GameRant Quiz
Mega Crit has continued with its effort to address community feedback, with one of the recent Slay the Spire 2 updates completely getting rid of the infamous Act 3 boss Doormaker and replacing it with Aeonglass. Doormaker had become one of the game's most heavily criticized bosses, with players feeling that it invalidated numerous deck archetypes and was far too oppressive to fight against. Not only that, but the update also brought in new animations, additional card audio, background music, and a range of bug fixes.
- Released
- March 5, 2026
- Developer(s)
- Mega Crit
- Publisher(s)
- Mega Crit
- Multiplayer
- Online Co-Op
- Prequel(s)
- Slay the Spire
WHERE TO PLAY
The ultimate roguelike deckbuilder returns!
For 1,000 years, the Spire lay dormant, its secrets buried and its horrors forgotten. Now, it has reopened, hungrier and more dangerous than ever, devouring all who dare to ascend.
New perils demand sharper strategies, relentless cunning, and unwavering resolve. Outwit the Spire’s brutal trials, and uncover the truths hidden at its peak. Will you survive the climb?
AN EVER-CHANGING SPIRE
Step into the newly evolved Spire, a twisted labyrinth teeming with strange and deadly foes. Adapt to an arsenal of brand new cards, relics, and potions, each offering game-changing possibilities—or dangerous consequences.
Climb the Spire with a new and returning cast of characters, each with their own cards, motives, and secrets. No two climbs are ever the same. Unpredictable challenges and evolving strategies await those brave—or foolish—enough to ascend.
CLIMB ALONE OR WITH ALLIES
Brave the ascent on your own, or play with up to 4 players and face the Spire together in the all new co-op mode. Discover multiplayer-specific cards, powerful team synergies, and carry your friends (or get carried) to victory!
A NEW AND RETURNING CAST OF CHARACTERS
Embark on your quest to Slay the Spire as one of five different characters, some of whom will be familiar to seasoned Slayers and two of whom who are brand new. Discover each character’s unique playstyle, full potential, and secret backstory as you conquer all who stand in their way.
UNCOVER THE SPIRE’S LORE
The history of the Spire and its inhabitants, be they friend or foe, can now be discovered in entirely new ways. Unlock fragments of its mysterious timeline and encounter the most ancient of its residents through your myriad attempts.
- Number of Players
- 1-4 players
- Steam Deck Compatibility
- Verified
- Early Access Release
- March 5, 2026
- Genre(s)
- Strategy, Roguelike, Digital Card Game
- Platform(s)
- PC
- How Long To Beat
- 5 hours
