Grounded 2: “Into the Abyss” Update Unlocks the Pond, Game Launches on PS5

Obsidian is diving deep into the aquatic side of Brookhollow Park: The free “Into the Abyss” update for Grounded 2 has arrived, opening up the long-teased pond area for exploration both on the surface and underwater. Simultaneously, the game makes its PlayStation 5 debut today.

For existing Grounded 2 owners, the update is free and will be automatically applied the next time you launch the game. Players who have previously only been on Xbox or PC can now team up with friends on other platforms on PS5 – full crossplay is supported.

What's in the Into the Abyss Update

• A completely rebuilt underwater movement and combat system: featuring a directed dash, lock-on targeting, and a new harpoon weapon.
• The pond in Brookhollow Park is accessible and diveable for the first time – both on the surface and in its depths.
• New diving gear unlocks, keeping you underwater longer and safer.
• The amphibious “Toe-Biter Buggy” vehicle helps you traverse both land and water.
• New aquatic threats await in the depths, including the returning Koi Fish as one of the greater dangers.
• Grounded 2 simultaneously launches into Early Access on PS5 and is also playable there via Game Pass Premium.

What This Means for Grounded 2 Players

Grounded 2 remains in Early Access, and a release date for the full Version 1.0 has not yet been set. However, Obsidian has already demonstrated with the first Grounded title how this process works: its predecessor also launched in Early Access in 2020 and was officially completed approximately two years later, in September 2022. According to the studio, the pond is explicitly just the beginning and not the end of the planned content – further areas, creatures, and systems are already under development for the ongoing Early Access phase. Therefore, those jumping in now should prepare for a growing game rather than a finished product. Specifically for existing players: your current save remains intact, and you only need the latest update to access the pond and harpoon.

Source: Obsidian Entertainment, Tech Times

Do you dare to venture into the depths of the pond yet? Tell us about your first encounter with the Koi Fish in the comments!