Editor’s Review:

Garten of Banban 2, developed by Euphoric Brothers, was released on 3 March 2023, continuing the eerie and surreal tale of Banban's Kindergarten in its hidden underworld (Steam). The game seamlessly blends horror and adventure, placing players on a tense first-person journey filled with puzzles, unsettling characters, and atmospheric dread.

On mobile, the game has a rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars, based on nearly 69k user reviews, with over 10 Million downloads, indicating a mixed but engaged player base. Steam reviews tell a similar story: overall ratings are mixed, with approximately 69% positive from over 3,600 reviews. However, more recent players rate it mostly positively, suggesting a gradual improvement in reception.

The game excels at building tension through its quiet, creepy environment and straightforward narrative. Players explore the underground facility with just a drone for company, uncovering disturbing secrets and solving puzzles under pressure. Its short length, about an hour, makes it a bite-sized horror experience that does not overstay its welcome but still leaves an impact.

Players appreciate the increase in content over the first game. New areas, characters, and a deeper underground world expand the story, making exploration feel more rewarding. However, some elements fall flat. Puzzles can feel uninspired, and occasional technical hiccups or rough design choices break immersion.

Still, for its price, Garten of Banban 2 offers a tense and eerie experience. It is easy to put down but hard to forget. If you enjoy atmospheric horror with light puzzle-solving and a tight runtime, this game delivers a short yet memorable scare.

How to Play

Step 1: Install the game on your platform PC, mobile, or console. Begin with the opening area of Banban's Kindergarten, where your journey starts.

Step 2: You take control in a first-person view. Your drone follows, assisting with tasks and lighting, keeping you company in the dark corridors.

Step 3: Listen closely to the sound design. Footsteps, ambient noises, and subtle creaks hint at hidden threats, guiding your movement.

Step 4: Explore thoroughly. Interact with objects and collect notes to piece together the story and unlock new areas.

Step 5: Solve simple puzzles found throughout the underground facility. These may involve scanning, keycards, or navigating dark paths. Use your surroundings to guide you toward progress.

Step 6: Manage Your Limited Light Sources. Use your drone wisely to navigate and reveal hidden items without drawing unwanted attention.

Step 7: Avoid suspicious characters and creatures. Some areas feel safe, while others are clearly dangerous—learn when to proceed and when to pull back.

Step 8: Move slowly and observe. This is not a fast-paced game. Tension builds through quiet moments and unexpected reveals, so patience pays off.

Step 9: Follow the narrative through environmental clues. Collectible notes and visuals help you understand what is happening beneath the kindergarten.

Step 10: Reach the elevator or exit point once the truth is uncovered. The game ends when you have enough clues and have overcome the obstacles in your path.