Two Point Hospital: Close Encounters

The Two Point Hospital: Close Encounters DLC was developed by Two Point Studios and published by SEGA. Released on August 29, 2019, for PC, it was later included in the Jumbo Edition for consoles, which launched on March 5, 2021. This expansion introduced a science fiction theme to the game, incorporating elements of extraterrestrial encounters and conspiracy theories into the hospital management simulation. Players were tasked with managing hospitals in locations affected by mysterious phenomena, adding a new layer of intrigue and challenge to the gameplay.

The inspiration for Close Encounters stemmed from the developers' desire to inject a sense of the unknown and the fantastical into the game's universe. The narrative centered around the town of Goldpan, where unusual illnesses emerged following a reported fireball sighting. Players were encouraged to explore these anomalies, with the Two Point Squabbler, the county's leading journalistic institution, seeking answers. This storyline set the stage for the introduction of alien-themed illnesses and the need for specialized treatments.

Gameplay in the Close Encounters DLC expanded upon the base game by adding three new hospitals: Goldpan, Camouflage Falls, and Chasm 24. These locations presented unique challenges and required players to adapt their strategies to manage the influx of 34 new illnesses, including 11 visual ailments. The DLC also introduced three new, fully animated cure machines, enhancing the treatment options available. Additionally, new music tracks, DJ commentary, and tannoy announcements were added, contributing to the immersive and quirky atmosphere of the expansion.

Promotion for Close Encounters included an early adopter bonus offering a 10% discount for those who pre-ordered the DLC. The expansion was met with a generally positive reception, with players appreciating the fresh, sci-fi twist and the added content. However, some reviewers noted that while the new additions were enjoyable, they didn't significantly alter the core gameplay loop. Despite this, the DLC was considered a worthwhile addition for fans looking to expand their hospital management experience with a touch of the extraterrestrial.