Cassette Beasts 2002 will have a save import feature from the original game!

When Cassette Beasts 2002 launches, those of you who journeyed through the first game will be able to import your history from CB1 into the game via a save game code! It'll carry over your relationships and history, and let your continue your story as the same character!

Additional clarification:

To clarify, the cast of companions in 2002 is all new but by importing your character, your history from the first game is something that can come up in dialogue & the game treats the story as a continuation 🙏

Source