Paradox Interactive announced that it’s bringing fresh life to the Prison Architect IP in 2024, with a 3D sequel titled, natch, Prison Architect 2. Along with developer Double Eleven, the publisher says the sequel brings new management gameplay to the series, with new behavior systems and player control options. Prison Architect 2 launches on PC, PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/X on March 26.
Introversion Software originally created Prison Architect, and Paradox acquired the intellectual property in 2019. Paradox have released updates for the original title since the acquisition, but this is the first new game in the series it has created with Double Eleven (Introversion said at the time of the acquisition it would have no role in any sequel work, with cofounder Mark Morris saying it was “time for us to move on”).
Prison Architect 2 leans into the 3D aspect of the game, with players now able to create prisons with multiple floors. Prisoners can also build relationships with each other that might disrupt the player’s plans, and the game will feature a new career mode to play through.
Gareth Wright, the game’s director, said in a statement, “In Prison Architect 2, our team set out to create the next level in management gameplay. A greater degree of player freedom, impactful choices, and inmate simulation come together to provide an enhanced presentation of prison management, in a 3D world. Staple and much-loved features return to manage your inmates, quell riots, prevent escapes and share your prisons, but now cross-platform! In addition to a new upgrade system, a new Career Mode, and more.”