# Evolve Stage 2

> 2016 video game

**Wikidata**: [Q124642176](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q124642176)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/evolve-stage-2

## Summary
Evolve Stage 2 is a 2016 free-to-play multiplayer first-person shooter video game developed by Turtle Rock Studios and published by 2K. It is an enhanced edition of the original Evolve, featuring asymmetrical multiplayer gameplay where teams of hunters face off against a player-controlled monster. The game was released exclusively for Microsoft Windows via Steam.

## Key Facts
- **Release Date:** July 7, 2016  
- **Developer:** Turtle Rock Studios  
- **Publisher:** 2K  
- **Platform:** Microsoft Windows  
- **Genre:** First-person shooter, science fiction  
- **Game Modes:** Multiplayer, player versus player, asymmetrical multiplayer  
- **Business Model:** Free-to-play  
- **Engine:** CryEngine 3  
- **Distribution:** Digital (Steam)  
- **Data Size:** ~25.5 GB download  

## FAQs
### Q: Is Evolve Stage 2 still playable?
A: No, Evolve Stage 2's servers were shut down in 2018, making the game unplayable in its intended multiplayer format.

### Q: What makes Evolve Stage 2 different from the original Evolve?
A: Evolve Stage 2 introduced a free-to-play model, rebalanced gameplay, and additional content not available in the standard release.

### Q: Can Evolve Stage 2 run on Linux?
A: While not officially supported, Evolve Stage 2 is de facto compatible with Linux through certain workarounds.

## Why It Matters
Evolve Stage 2 represents a notable experiment in the live-service and free-to-play model for asymmetrical multiplayer games. Its shift from a paid title to a free-to-play format aimed to revitalize its player base, reflecting broader industry trends toward ongoing content updates and monetization through microtransactions. Though ultimately unsuccessful due to server shutdowns, it showcased Turtle Rock Studios' innovative approach to team-based shooter mechanics, blending PvP and PvE elements in a sci-fi setting. The game's legacy lies in its bold design choices and its role in discussions about the sustainability of live-service games.

## Notable For
- **Asymmetrical Multiplayer:** Pioneered unique 4v1 gameplay dynamics.  
- **Free-to-Pivot:** Transitioned from paid to free-to-play post-launch.  
- **Technical Specs:** Utilized CryEngine 3 for high-fidelity visuals.  
- **Short Lifespan:** Servers were active for only two years post-release.  
- **Modding Community:** Despite shutdowns, retained a niche modding scene.  

## Body
### Development and Release
- Developed by **Turtle Rock Studios** (founded 2002) and published by **2K** (founded 2005).  
- Released on **July 7, 2016**, as a free-to-play update to the original *Evolve*.  
- Distributed exclusively via **Steam** for **Microsoft Windows**.  

### Gameplay Features
- **Asymmetrical Multiplayer:** Teams of 4 hunters vs. 1 player-controlled monster.  
- **Modes:** Included competitive PvP and bot-supported matches.  
- **Input:** Designed for keyboard/mouse, with support for controllers.  

### Technical Details
- **Engine:** Built on **CryEngine 3**.  
- **Anti-Cheat:** Used **Valve Anti-Cheat** (VAC).  
- **Storage:** Required ~25.5 GB of disk space.  

### Post-Launch and Shutdown
- **Server Closure:** Discontinued in 2018 due to declining player counts.  
- **Legacy:** Retained a small modding community despite official support ending.

## References

1. AreWeAntiCheatYet
2. [Q111496405](https://steamdb.info/app/273350/info/)
3. [Q111496405](https://steamdb.info/app/273350/depots/)
4. [Source](https://github.com/AreWeAntiCheatYet/AreWeAntiCheatYet/blob/master/games.json)