India, Oct. 5 -- Minecraft Dungeons II takes the straightforward loot-chasing formula of the original and stretches it across a larger world. The sequel adds open exploration, more build options, and flexible co-op, but its early appeal comes with a familiar problem. There is more to do, though not always more variety in doing it.

The biggest shift is the move away from mostly linear missions. Players begin around Brave Haven before heading into an Overworld filled with quests, dungeons, mobs, and portals leading into a new dimension called The Sift.

The story follows the first game, with the Illager High Council stepping in as the new threat after the Arch Illager's defeat.

That structure suits Minecraft Dungeons in theory. There is a...