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Waves 2: Notorious is an arcade twin-stick shooter set in Cyberspace. Build Combos, earn Adrenaline and unleash powerful Burst attacks as you Dive into the Net and do battle against an AI that adapts to your we

Steam ↗Windows · Linux
GameWiki EditorialReviewed 5 guide topics

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About Waves 2: Notorious

Waves 2: Notorious is a twin‑stick bullet‑hell shooter where you control a Runner diving into cyberspace. You must dodge relentless waves of Bugs, Programs, Viruses and an adaptive AI Administrator while hunting its Guardians.

The title offers single‑player runs, real‑time PvP arenas, Steam leaderboards, daily‑weekly‑monthly ranks, full controller support and a load‑out system that lets you combine 36 unlockable Programs.

01 / THE GUIDE

Core Gameplay Mechanics

Movement and fire are handled independently with twin sticks, demanding precise reflexes to survive the constant barrage of enemies. Each enemy you destroy adds to a Combo, which directly generates Adrenaline.

Adrenaline can be spent on Burst Attacks that deal heavy damage. Keeping a high Combo therefore increases both your offensive potential and your survivability against the Administrator’s forces.

  • Observe enemy spawn patterns to time Burst Attacks when clusters appear.
  • Avoid long pauses between kills to keep your Combo and Adrenaline flowing.

02 / THE GUIDE

Procedurally Generated Networks

Each dive takes place in a procedurally generated corporate network, meaning the layout of enemies and obstacles changes every run. This randomness forces you to adapt your movement and attack strategies on the fly.

The Administrator AI observes your actions within these networks and adapts its behavior, creating a dynamic difficulty that evolves as you learn its patterns.

  • Treat each network as a fresh learning opportunity for the Administrator.
  • Adjust your movement routes when you notice new enemy placements.
Waves 2: Notorious official gameplay screenshot
Publisher-provided gameplay image · Squid In A Box Ltd

03 / THE GUIDE

Avatar Load‑out Customization

You can unlock 36 distinct Programs and combine them into a custom load‑out. Each Program contributes to your load-out, allowing you to shape the Runner’s combat profile.

Experimenting with different Program synergies reveals which combinations best support your preferred style, whether that emphasizes burst damage, sustained fire, or survivability.

  • Mix defensive and offensive Programs to balance survivability and damage.
  • Track which Program combos produce the longest Combos for higher Adrenaline.

04 / THE GUIDE

Multiplayer and PvP

Beyond solo runs, the game features real‑time PvP in Arcade Arenas where players battle to be the last survivor. Performance is recorded on Steam Leaderboards, providing a competitive benchmark.

Ranks are refreshed daily, weekly, and monthly, giving multiple timeframes to climb the leaderboard and compare your progress against other players.

  • Observe opponent movement to anticipate their Burst timing.
  • Use leaderboard positions as a reference for improving Combo efficiency.

05 / THE GUIDE

Reputation and Progression

Defeating Guardians raises your Reputation, moving you toward the Notorious title. Reputation is raised by defeating the Guardians.

Higher Reputation signals mastery of core systems and encourages continued engagement with the game's mechanics.

  • Prioritize Guardian encounters to boost Reputation efficiently.
  • Focus on Guardian encounters as you work toward the Notorious title.

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    QUICK ANSWERS

    Waves 2: Notorious FAQ

    What input options does Waves 2: Notorious provide?

    The feature list includes full controller support, allowing twin‑stick control with a gamepad.

    Can I play Waves 2: Notorious with other players?

    Yes, the game offers real‑time PvP arenas and online leaderboards for multiplayer competition.

    How many Programs are available for load‑out customization?

    There are 36 distinct Programs that can be unlocked and combined to shape your Avatar.

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    SOURCES & CREDITS

    Official resources and further reading

    Original editorial guidance. Game imagery and trailers are provided by the publisher through Steam. Media and reference links checked 2026-10-24. Game versions, supported platforms, and balance can change; consult the linked release notes for current details.