Mangavania 2 is more of the same in comparison to the original. Presented in a delightful and easy to understand 1-bit visual style, this platformer is simple, lacks replay value, but offers low-cost approachable gameplay that can provide mild entertainment for an hour.
Playing as some guy with a sword, gameplay couldn’t really be simpler. One button attacks. Another jumps. And eventually a hookshot and bombs becomes available. Instead of knocking out specific targets like in the first game, this sequel casually asks the player to just reach the exit. Even though “vania” is in the title, each stage is linear and contains Ninja Gaiden-ish gameplay. Sword swipe enemies. Jump over pits. Wall jump to reach higher platforms. And there are a couple boss battles that will take a few attempts before you memorize their attack patterns.
There are twenty stages to complete, and each Achievement gets unlocked with each completed stage. Strangely, the game keeps track of the time it takes to complete each stage but doesn’t reward or punish the player according to the finish time. It is just there, I guess, if speed runners want to self-impose a challenge. Also, the only story beats come from finding a little robbed character who spits a line or two of unnecessary dialog. These details can be completely avoided by the player and do not really enhance the gameplay anyway.
Unfortunately, the soundtrack is a short, repetitive loop and started to drive me mad by the last handful of stages. The new bomb technique can also bring the experience to an abrupt halt. Since some walls need to be blasted, they often require a precise toss which could take some time as they are lobbed by holding the button for a second or two. The hookshot ability is pretty cool though, making you feel like a badass when you pull off a long jump.
Mangavania 2 is accurately priced at five bucks and an easy way to boost your Gamerscore without struggle. Although I wish there was a little more meat on the bone, I still casually enjoyed my time with this basic, straight-forward platformer by Sometimes You.
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By: Zachary Gasiorowski, Editor in Chief myGamer.com
Twitter: @ZackGaz
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RATING
OUR SCORE - 7
7
SCORE
In terms of a platformer, it doesn’t get any plainer than Mangavania. However, plain doesn’t necessarily mean “bad.” It is totally fine for the $5 price and one hour it takes to complete. Achievement hunters take note.