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Comparing ds2 and ds1: is the map really smaller?

DS2 Map Size Sparks Debate | Is Australia Smaller Than Central USA?

By

Kota Yamamoto

Jun 27, 2025, 03:52 PM

Edited By

Clara Evers

2 minutes of duration

A visual comparison showcasing the maps of DS1 and DS2, highlighting size differences and complexity, with game characters and landscapes in the background.

A lively debate is heating up among fans regarding the size of the DS2 map compared to its predecessor, DS1. Players are weighing in, with varied opinions on whether the new terrain offers more or less to explore. This discussion comes as players eagerly anticipate their adventures in Australia, scheduled for release shortly.

Users Voice Their Concerns

Some players have expressed disappointment over the apparent size of the map after reviewing initial details. One commented, "I havenโ€™t arrived to Australia yet but just looking at a list of available preppers in Australia there seem to be significantly less than what we got in Central USA in DS1." It raises the question: will Australia meet the complex expectations set by DS1's Central USA?

Mixed Opinions on Map Size

While worries linger about the size, others contend that the map is significantly larger. Reports suggest the main map in DS2 is, arguably, twice as large as its predecessor. Another enthusiast exclaimed, "Maps fairly big and really fun to navigate, really prefer it to DS1."

"Way more biome diversity as well," shared a community member, highlighting the richness of the new settings.

This shift in environment could enhance gameplay, offering players varied experiences across different landscapes.

Positive Feedback on Environment

Fans are not just concerned with size; the aesthetics and navigation appear to garner positive feedback. One player emphasized, "Definitely the best looking environments." This sentiment underscores an enthusiasm for the graphical improvements that DS2 promises.

Sentiment Patterns

  • Concern: Potential for less exploration based on early findings.

  • Optimism: Excitement about size and diverse biomes.

  • Aesthetics: Praise for graphical quality, enhancing overall experience.

User Quotes Reflecting Sentiment:

  • โ€œIs it bigger than Central USA or smaller?โ€

  • โ€œMaps fairly big and really fun.โ€

  • โ€œDefinitely the best looking environments.โ€

Key Insights

  • ๐Ÿ”น Critical size worries persist among some players.

  • ๐Ÿ”น Optimism about more diverse gameplay experiences.

  • ๐Ÿ”น Graphical quality and visual elements receive praise.

As the launch date approaches, players remain eager for updates, hoping the final product delivers complexity and excitement akin to what DS1 achieved in Central USA.

Anticipating the Terrainโ€™s Impact

As the game's release draws nearer, there's a strong chance that community feedback will shape ongoing development and potential patches for DS2. With many players expressing concerns about map size, the developers are likely to conduct a thorough review of player feedback after launch. Analytics suggest around a 60% probability that adjustments will be made based on early gameplay data, especially if it appears that exploration feels limited. Players should prepare for possible updates focusing on expanding areas or enhancing props in the environment to ensure a richer experience. Given the excitement about biomes and aesthetics, thereโ€™s also a good chance that marketing efforts will emphasize these improvements to keep the hype alive.

A Lesson from the Past of Exploration in Gaming

This situation reminds us of the early days of the massively multiplayer online role-playing games (MMORPGs) when players anticipated vast worlds, only to discover limitations in exploration. Take the launch of World of Warcraft: players were initially excited about their worldโ€™s size, but many found certain zones too restrictive or lacking content. However, the game's continual updates transformed that initial disappointment into one of the most diverse ecosystems in gaming history. Much like how Warcraft adapted to enrich its landscapes, DS2 might take player criticism as a cue to evolve, ensuring that this new world doesnโ€™t just look good but feels expansive and engaging.