ActRaiser 2

ActRaiser 2 is an action platformer that follows up on the successful first installment but fundamentally changes its concept – while the original alternated action sections with building and managing a civilization, the sequel focuses exclusively on action. The player again controls the divine hero The Master, this time without the supporting layer of city-building, and moves through a series of demanding levels full of traps, jumping sections, and battles against distinctive bosses who require memorizing attack patterns. The character wields a sword, a shield, and magic attacks, between which the player switches depending on the situation, and the level design often relies on gradually uncovering dangers through trial and error, making the game more of a deliberate test of patience than fast action.

The graphics carry over the elegance of the first installment – detailed backgrounds, smooth animation of the main character and enemies, and an emphasis on atmospheric lighting and color transitions between scenes, from heavenly sanctuaries to volcanic landscapes and dark underground temples. The musical accompaniment is again orchestrally tuned and counts among the game's strengths, as in the previous installment, and underscores well the monumental, almost mythological feel of the individual levels. However, removing the simulation component divided reception among players and critics alike – some praised the polished action portion and difficulty, while others missed the variety and strategic layer that made the original exceptional and gave the game a different rhythm.

With the passage of time, ActRaiser 2 is seen as a quality but controversial sequel that proves not every successful concept can withstand being reduced to a single component. For fans of pure action-platforming gameplay it offers precise design and demanding battles, though in the shadow of the first installment it remains a somewhat underrated title, one players return to more for the challenge itself than out of nostalgia for the simulation portion.

Why play it: Fans of pure action-platforming gameplay will enjoy the precise design and demanding battles, though without the beloved simulation component of the first game, ActRaiser 2 remains a somewhat underrated title.