Gunvolt Chronicles: Luminous Avenger iX 2

One of the oldest and most beloved forms a game can take is the 2D action platformer. With the nostalgia power that genre holds, it was inevitable that some studios would modernize that experience, and Inti Creates’ Gunvolt series definitely hits all the right notes. The crisp sprite work, lovingly crafted 2d environments, and thoughtful gameplay mechanics all combine to make experiences that deliver on that nostalgia factor. The newest entry to the series, Gunvolt Chronicles: Luminous Avenger iX 2 brings the heat with new gameplay options and fantastic new 2D art. Here are some of the features in store for this new gem.

Classic 2D Gameplay

Gunvolt Chronicles: Luminous Avenger iX 2 continues the Gunvolt tradition of scratching that Mega Man itch that most gamers have. Flood your senses with gorgeous 16-bit, 2D art as you control the titular “Luminous Avenger” Copen through eight unique environments, all with their own set of enemies and obstacles to contend with, as well as their own epic boss battles.

Each stage you complete will reveal more of the story, and will also introduce new characters that will further fill out the lore of this land where humans are extinct, and robots rule. Utilize Copen’s extreme maneuverability with an array of dashes, jump, and even flying options. Let no one stand between you and retro platform gaming nirvana.

New Combat Options

Also included in Gunvolt Chronicles: Luminous Avenger iX 2 is an overhaul of the combat system from the previous game, and additional methods to employ in your robot destruction. The “Break-Shift/Bullit-Shift” system allows for the most free form combat yet in a Gunvolt game, making any robot who would dare step to you shudder where they stand. In Break-Shift mode, Copen uses his brand new weapon, the spinning blade of death called the Razor Wheel to eviscerate enemies on the ground as well as airborne ones. The Razor Wheel can also be used to destroy obstacles along the way, and it even has a defensive option called the Recoil Dash that sends enemies flying back as Copen rushes forward. Bullit-Shift mode presents you with the expected Gunvolt combat, which has Copen flying enemy to enemy marking each one for a lightning-fast dash attack. No matter how you choose to deal with them, enemies will fall to pieces before you.

A Diverse Cast of Characters

Returning from the previous game is your companion bot, Lola. She provides the incredibly important skill of being able to use the abilities of boss characters you defeat through the creation and deployment of EX Weapons.

Pros

• Classic Mega Man-inspired gameplay
• Visuals are a 16-bit gamer’s dream
• The new combat systems provide lots of options
• Great side characters

Cons

• Game can be quite short for highly skilled players
• Combat can be overwhelming with large number of enemies on screen