I’ve an fascinating historical past in the case of the Freedom Planet. I bear in mind scrolling by way of the Sonic Fanon Wiki in my free time in center faculty to see how Sonic followers design characters and seeing a personality known as “Lilac the Hedgehog.” Sound acquainted? The Sonic inspiration in Freedom Planet was very evident in its first sport, however how has it introduced itself on this sequel? Let’s see.
Earlier than beginning, it is best to play the unique sport first, because it references earlier occasions and characters. Plus, it straight states that the story takes place three years later. You possibly can decide which one of many 4 protagonists to play as.
Sash Lilac is your typical heroic protagonist and a hybrid water dragon with a lift as her particular transfer that lets her velocity by way of ranges simply. Carol Tea is a spunky wildcat with a three-bladed disk to assault with and her bike, which you’ll summon in ranges by gathering a gas tank; she’s robust and might take out enemies simply. Milla Basset is an lovable hush basset with alchemy powers used to blast power or protect and a Yoshi-like flutter bounce however with decrease well being. The latest playable character within the collection is Neera Li, the disciplined adviser of the Royal Magister of Shang Tu, who has a Cryo Workers that produces ice for robust assaults and might double bounce.
On the subject of characters, my favourite character is Milla as a result of she’s lovable and mysterious. I relate to Carol, having a infantile and impartial spirit. And whereas I’ve probably the most enjoyable enjoying as Lilac due to her velocity and beauty, Neera falls by the wayside because of her flat characterization and grounded playstyle.
The gameplay is satisfying and difficult for probably the most half, particularly for the boss battles. There are puzzles and creatively designed enemies inside the huge phases; you will get misplaced in the event you aren’t cautious. New to the collection are numerous hub worlds the place you should purchase potions and enhancements to make your gameplay simpler, like bodily assaults absorbing life from enemies and elevated leaping energy. There’s additionally the Battlesphere Enviornment, the place you go to finish challenges to get crystals and artifacts. No spoilers, however the artifacts are vital, so it’s value enjoying the challenges earlier than the ending.
The plot is one among an antagonist wanting revenge in opposition to a race that worn out their individuals. Whereas the topic was intriguing, and the story had the potential to be fascinating, I want extra was revealed and fleshed out. It feels just like the plot is constructing as much as one thing or some level the place extra shall be defined. But it surely retains talking in obscure, shallow statements.
It’s laborious as a result of, between the catchy music, stunning visuals, and enjoyable gameplay, I discover the story and characters a bit too shallow quality-wise. This antagonist has rather more depth to her than the final villain, however I nonetheless want there have been greater than skin-deep personalities to the characters and plot. The dialogue is predictable, and typically, the tone deflates earlier than it will possibly actually convey any type of real emotion house. For instance, there’s one half the place somebody is supposedly gravely injured. However then, after they’re getting patched up, they act drunk for a joke.
Freedom Planet 2 is an satisfying, inventive, and fairly launch total. With a bit extra polish and fleshing out within the writing, I really feel it may very well be a really wonderful sport. However as is, it’s undoubtedly extra expanded than the extra simplistic first title. Priced at $24.99, I’d say it’s value choosing up if it goes on sale!