Jazz Jackrabbit 2

Jazz Jackrabbit 2 is a classic 2D platformer game that was released in 1998 by Epic Games. The game was a sequel to the original game, which was released in 1994. Jazz Jackrabbit 2 was available on PC and was well-received by both fans and critics alike, becoming a beloved classic in the platformer genre.

What to expect

The game's premise revolves around the titular character Jazz Jackrabbit, a green rabbit who is set to marry his beloved princess Eva Earlong but the wedding ring is stolen by his nemesis Devan Shell to create a time machine. The evil genius turtle succeeds and Jazz and Spaz get sucked into a wormhole created by the time machine. You can choose to play Jazz or Spaz. The game features different themes, from a forest scape to a desert, and futuristic city. These are distributed under various episodes which indicate a certain era of time.

Smooth 2D gameplay

The gameplay of Jazz Jackrabbit 2 is simple but challenging in a good way. The player must jump, shoot, and dodge their way through each level, avoiding obstacles and destroying enemies while collecting gems and power-ups. The game also features a variety of weapons, including a blaster, a flamethrower, and a homing missile launcher, which can be upgraded throughout the game.

There are many levels to play with additional hidden chambers and secret rooms to discover which can lead to exciting new treasures and bonuses.

One of the standout features of Jazz Jackrabbit 2 is its multiplayer mode. The multiplayer mode is incredibly fun and adds a lot of replayability to the game.

The graphics of Jazz Jackrabbit 2 are colorful and vibrant, with detailed backgrounds and character designs. The game also features a catchy soundtrack that perfectly complements the game's fast-paced gameplay. The sound effects are also well-done, with each weapon having its own unique sound.

Conclusion

One of the few drawbacks of Jazz Jackrabbit 2 is that levels may feel the same over time. However, the game can be quite challenging, especially in later levels. Another issue is that it may be difficult to run on some modern PCs as the coding is 25 years old, however, a quick google search can lead you to gamer community threads where you can find bug patches to resolve any glitches.

Pros

• Simple controls and run and gun shooter format
• Vibrant, colourful graphics
• Fun soundtrack
• Fast-paced and has many levels
• Upgradeable weapons
• Multiplayer option

Cons

• Can be tricky to run on modern-day PCs
• Gameplay may feel monotonous at times

You don't really need to know the plot behind this, do you? The raison d'etre behind 40 levels of chasm-leaping, tortoise-twatting and girlfriendsaving? No. of course not. You want to know whether this, the latest in a dying breed of platform games, is worth buying. Surprisingly enough, Jazz Jackrabbit 2 is actually a pretty decent game. This time the eponymous hero has been joined by his ganja'd-up brother Spaz who, contrary to the effects of the demon weed on most people, is pretty tuned in to the task at hand. You can choose to play cither of them in the quest to rescue Eva Earlong, Jazz's bird (or bunny), and the usual platform tricks and traps are there to help and hinder you.

The graphics are on the diminutive side compared to those of other platform games, but this means a lot more of the game area is on-screen - handy for planning your next move. The 'ambience' of the game is different as well. Though naturally linear, the levels almost have the feel of an adventure - almost. Thankfully, the obligatory timer has been left off so you can ponder your way through the levels. And with the inclusion of various weapons, you even get to deathmatch bunny-style.

Co-op, Capture the Flag and race games have been implemented, but while it doesn't hold a candle to the likes of Quake, that's not so say it isn't fun. Consider it a trainer for those eager to frag their way up the deathmatch career ladder. With Jazz Jackrobbit I and a level editor included, you can't really knock it for value. And if you don't usually go for this sort of thing, you might just find yourself pleasantly surprised.