Published on August 8th, 2024 | by Boouya
Volgarr the Viking 2 Review (Switch)
Summary: "Volgarr the Viking 2" is a worthy successor to the original, delivering a challenging and rewarding experience that fans of the genre will love. The game builds on the strengths of its predecessor while introducing new elements that enhance the gameplay. The tight controls, exceptional level design, stunning visuals, and immersive sound all come together to create a game that is both brutally difficult and incredibly satisfying. For those who enjoy a tough but fair platformer, Volgarr the Viking 2 is a must-play. It’s a game that demands and rewards mastery, offering a sense of accomplishment that is rare in modern games. Whether you’re a veteran of the first game or a newcomer to the series, Volgarr the Viking 2 is a thrilling adventure that will test your skills and keep you coming back for more.
4.3
Challenging Action-Platformer
Volgarr the Viking 2 is the thrilling continuation of the intense and unforgiving platformer that fans of the original have been eagerly awaiting. Building on the foundation laid by its predecessor, this sequel offers more of the brutal difficulty, precise platforming, and satisfying combat that made the first game a cult classic, while also introducing new elements that enhance the experience.
Gameplay and Mechanics
Volgarr the Viking 2 stays true to its roots, delivering a gameplay experience that is challenging yet rewarding. The controls are tight and responsive, which is essential given the game’s demanding nature. Players will find themselves navigating perilous environments, filled with traps and enemies that require both skill and strategy to overcome.
The core mechanics remain largely unchanged, with Volgarr able to jump, roll, and use his sword and spear to defeat enemies and solve environmental puzzles. However, the sequel introduces new abilities and items that add depth to the gameplay. For instance, Volgarr can now perform a dash move, which not only aids in combat but also adds a new layer to the platforming sections. Additionally, new weapon upgrades and magic abilities provide players with more options in how they approach each challenge.
Level Design
The level design in Volgarr the Viking 2 is exceptional, with each stage presenting a unique set of obstacles and enemies that keep the gameplay fresh and engaging. The developers have clearly put a lot of thought into the layout of each level, ensuring that they are both challenging and fair. Players will need to master the mechanics and think strategically to progress, as each level demands precision and quick reflexes.
The game also features a variety of environments, from dark and foreboding dungeons to lush, verdant forests. Each area is beautifully designed, with detailed backgrounds and atmospheric lighting that draw players into the world of Volgarr. The visual variety helps to keep the game interesting and provides a sense of progression as players advance through different regions.
Art and Sound
Visually, Volgarr the Viking 2 is a treat. The pixel art style is both nostalgic and modern, with crisp animations and intricate details that bring the game’s world to life. The character designs are excellent, with Volgarr himself looking as fierce as ever, and the enemies and bosses are varied and memorable.
The soundtrack complements the action perfectly, with epic, orchestral tracks that heighten the sense of adventure and danger. The sound effects are also top-notch, from the clash of swords to the guttural roars of defeated foes, adding to the overall immersion.
Difficulty and Replayability
One of the defining features of Volgarr the Viking was its punishing difficulty, and the sequel is no different. This is a game that demands patience, precision, and perseverance. Casual players might find the difficulty off-putting, but for those who relish a challenge, “Volgarr the Viking 2” is immensely satisfying. Each victory feels earned, and the sense of accomplishment after defeating a tough boss or navigating a tricky platforming section is unparalleled.
The game’s high difficulty also lends itself well to replayability. Players will want to return to previous levels to perfect their runs, discover hidden secrets, and achieve better completion times. The inclusion of multiple difficulty modes and a variety of collectibles further enhances the replay value.
Story and Characters
While the primary focus of Volgarr the Viking 2 is on its gameplay, the story is engaging enough to keep players invested. Volgarr’s journey is one of vengeance and redemption, with a narrative that unfolds through brief but impactful cutscenes. The game’s lore is rich, with each new environment and enemy adding to the overall mythology.
Volgarr himself is a compelling protagonist. He is a man of few words, but his actions speak volumes. His unwavering determination and fierce combat skills make him a character that players can easily root for. The supporting characters, though not heavily featured, are well-designed and contribute to the game’s world-building.
Conclusion
Volgarr the Viking 2 is a worthy successor to the original, delivering a challenging and rewarding experience that fans of the genre will love. The game builds on the strengths of its predecessor while introducing new elements that enhance the gameplay. The tight controls, exceptional level design, stunning visuals, and immersive sound all come together to create a game that is both brutally difficult and incredibly satisfying.
For those who enjoy a tough but fair platformer, Volgarr the Viking 2 is a must-play. It’s a game that demands and rewards mastery, offering a sense of accomplishment. Whether you’re a veteran of the first game or a newcomer to the series, Volgarr the Viking 2 is a thrilling adventure that will test your skills and keep you coming back for more.