DaRmaZat Publisher Stardock Entertainment and developer Oxide Games have released a free playable demo for Ashes of the Singularity II as part of Steam Next Fest. The demo offers a substantial slice of the massive-scale real-time strategy sequel, including two factions, full skirmish functionality, three maps, and multiplayer for up to eight players.
The demo features the United Earth Forces (UEF) and the Post-Human Coalition, each with distinct battlefield doctrines and unit compositions. The UEF fields conventional human-led armies, while the technologically advanced Post-Humans deploy mechanized forces equipped with energy-based weaponry. Players can test both sides in skirmish matches against AI or engage in full multiplayer battles with up to eight participants, with AI backfill available.
Three map sizes are included—small (2–4 players), medium (2–6 players), and large (2–8 players)—spanning arctic and desert environments, with dynamic day and night scenes. Save and load functionality is also supported, reinforcing the game’s emphasis on extended, strategic engagements rather than short, isolated matches.
Ashes of the Singularity II builds upon the 2016 original by doubling down on continent-sized battlefields and thousands of units simultaneously active. A central design evolution in the sequel is its army-based warfare system. Rather than micromanaging isolated unit production, players construct persistent armies that automatically reinforce frontlines. Losses are replenished through logistical systems that continuously route new units into contested zones, transforming warfare into an ongoing, large-scale operational effort.
Set in a near-future solar system shaped by advanced artificial intelligence and ideological division, the game explores large-scale conflict between humanity’s remaining forces and post-human entities competing for control. The full version will expand beyond the demo’s two factions and continue refining large-scale combat systems, with a release date for PC via Steam yet to be announced.
