Quake 2 moves the series into a new setting, sending a lone soldier to invade the homeworld of the alien Strogg after a failed offensive. It keeps the fast, weapon-driven combat of its predecessor while introducing a more connected campaign structure.

Levels link together into a broader assault on Strogg territory, with a heavier arsenal and tougher enemies than before. Multiplayer modes carry the series' competitive shooting into new maps and settings.