Sega has revealed some new details about Puyo Puyo Tetris 2's story mode and I'm actually quite surprised how much extra depth there is here. In the trailer below, you can get a glimpse of what the actual narrative for this puzzle crossover is all about, but the gameplay details are what have me intrigued. In addition to some of the standard mission types that were peppered throughout the original game's campaign, Puyo Puyo Tetris 2 has an overworld that players can explore.
Don't think that it's something along the lines of Super Mario World, but you won't simply be making linear progress here. As overworld would imply, there are branching paths to explore and a ton of optional missions for players to tackle. This will likely house some of the more offbeat game modes, such as "Skill Battles." Skill battles will feature some RPG elements so that you can level up your character, unleashing stronger attacks against your foes in an effort to dominate them.
The plot will reunite players with Ringo, Tee, and a ton of other Puyo Puyo veterans. I honestly couldn't follow the story of the original, but I have to appreciate the effort Sega puts into this. It's really not some throwaway gimmick, but a fully fleshed-out narrative that can take 8-10 hours to finish.
The previously announced DLC packs are likely going to be featured in Skill Battle mode. As Sega explains, this mode not only has RPG systems but will let players collect cards to power-up their characters. As a pre-order bonus, you'll get access to some exclusive Sonic the Hedgehog themed cards that grant you special powers. I could see more DLC coming later down the line.
Puyo Puyo Tetris 2 will be releasing on December 8, 2020, for PS4, Xbox One, Xbox Series S/X, and Nintendo Switch for $39.99. A PS5 version is planned for holiday 2020 and the PC version (via Steam) will be available in early 2021. If you're worried about the next-gen upgrade thing, both the Xbox One and PS4 versions will come with free upgrades with the Series S/X version being available immediately on launch.
Source: Sega PR