Lost Planet 2 picks up the story a decade after the original game, with the planet E.D.N. III undergoing significant changes due to global warming, causing its ice caps to melt. This reveals lush tropical jungles and harsh deserts that were hidden beneath the ice, along with new and more dangerous Akrid creatures.

The game is divided into six episodes, each focusing on different factions fighting for control of E.D.N. III and its thermal energy resources. The factions include the Snow Pirates, NEVEC (Neo-Venus Construction), and various mercenary groups. The story is told from multiple perspectives, allowing players to see the conflict from different angles.

Players battle through these diverse environments, facing off against giant Akrids and rival factions using a variety of weapons and Vital Suits (VSs), which are mech-like exoskeletons. The game emphasizes cooperative gameplay, with up to four players able to join forces in campaign mode.

The overarching plot involves the discovery of a massive Over-G Akrid, a source of immense thermal energy that all factions seek to control for their own purposes. The climax of the game revolves around the battle for this energy source, which could determine the fate of the planet.

For an even more detailed walkthrough of each episode, you might want to check out guides like those on IGN or Lost Planet Wiki.