'Escapists 2' latest update comes with free prison editor; features performance improvements for PC version

The new map editor for "Escapists 2" in action, in a screenshot from a promotional video. YouTube/Team17

Game developers Team17 and Mouldy Toof Studios has just released an update to the indie prison simulator "Escapists 2." Among a bunch of performance tweaks and fixes, the update also comes with a free map editor.

The map editor is a fan-requested feature. Now that it is out, it gives players the ability to create their prisons. Creating and editing prisons is intuitive, with a drag-and-drop interface that is commonly seen on map editors and construction simulations in most video games.

The map editor allows for the creation of prisons spanning up to two floors. These prisons can have layouts that range from simple to labyrinthine, depending on the players' preferences. Rooms, furniture, and prison cells can be added with a simple drag and drop.

Players who want to share their creations can do so by uploading their custom prisons to the Steam Workshop. Other players can download the custom prisons. These can be used in both single-player and multiplayer games.

The most recent "Escapists 2" update also included various performance improvements for Windows PC, Mac OSX, and Linux.

There were also fixes for some of the minor annoyances in the game. A fix was released for the issue that prevented the minimap from expanding when clicked. A fix for the bug that prevented players from gaining the "Artful Dodger" achievement when playing as a client in an Online Session was included, as well. A complete changelog for the latest patch can be found at the developers' Steam announcement dated Dec. 5.

"Escapists 2" was released on Aug. 22, 2017, and is a direct sequel to the "Escapists." Both games feature a sandbox prison simulation presented in retro-style pixel graphics. In the game, players are tasked with the ultimate goal of escaping a prison. However, they can also spend time crafting and brawling while inside.

The game is available for Windows PC, Mac OSX, Linux, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One. A Nintendo Switch version is currently in development.

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