The Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) is one of the most iconic consoles of all time, with a library of games that still holds up today. One game that stands out from the rest is ActRaiser 2, an action-strategy title developed by Quintet and published by Enix in 1994 for Japan, and later by Enix in North America and by Jaleco in Europe. In this review, we'll delve into the world of ActRaiser 2 and explore its unique blend of city-building, angelic combat, and dungeon crawling.

Storyline

ActRaiser 2 takes place in a world where humans live on earth, while angels reside in heaven. The game follows the story of an angel named Angelus, who is tasked with cleansing the earth of evil spirits known as "Devil Kings" that have been awakened from their slumber. Along the way, Angelus meets various allies, including a young human girl named Aria, and together they embark on a quest to defeat the Devil Kings and save humanity.

Gameplay

ActRaiser 2 is an action-strategy game that combines elements of city-building, angelic combat, and dungeon crawling. The gameplay is divided into three main components: City-building, Angelic Combat, and Dungeon Crawling.

City-building allows players to construct buildings, roads, and other infrastructure in their base town, which serves as a hub for Angelus's journey. Players must manage resources, allocate funds, and balance the needs of different factions within the town to keep them happy and satisfied. As the town grows and prospers, new buildings and facilities become available, allowing players to upgrade and expand their operations.

Angelic Combat is where ActRaiser 2 truly shines. Angelus can transform into an angelic form and engage in intense battles against enemies. The combat system is fast-paced and fluid, with a variety of magical attacks, melee combos, and special abilities at Angelus's disposal. Players must navigate through levels filled with enemies, obstacles, and traps to reach the final bosses.

Dungeon Crawling is another key component of ActRaiser 2. Players can explore procedurally generated dungeons filled with treasures, monsters, and other challenges. The dungeon crawling system allows players to choose their own path, selecting from a variety of items, spells, and abilities to aid them in their quest.

Graphics and Sound

ActRaiser 2 boasts impressive graphics for its time, with detailed character models, environments, and special effects. The game's color palette is vibrant and rich, with a wide range of textures and animations that bring the world to life. The sound design is equally impressive, with catchy music, voice acting, and sound effects that enhance the overall gaming experience.

Reception

ActRaiser 2 received widespread critical acclaim upon its release in Japan, with praise for its innovative gameplay mechanics and addictive nature. In North America and Europe, the game was released later, but still garnered positive reviews from critics and players alike.

The game's complexity and depth were praised, with many considering it one of the best games of all time. The game's unique blend of city-building, angelic combat, and dungeon crawling set a new standard for action-strategy games, influencing many other titles that followed in its footsteps.

Legacy

ActRaiser 2 has had a lasting impact on the gaming industry, with many considering it a cult classic. The game's innovative gameplay mechanics and addictive nature have made it a favorite among retro gamers and strategy enthusiasts alike.

In recent years, ActRaiser 2 has seen a resurgence in popularity, thanks in part to the rise of retro gaming and streaming platforms. The game has been re-released on various digital platforms, including the Nintendo Virtual Console and the PlayStation Store, allowing new generations of gamers to experience its unique charm.

Age Rating

ActRaiser 2 is rated E for Everyone by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB), which means that it is suitable for players of all ages. However, due to some mild violence, brief suggestive humor, and fantasy-related themes, parents are advised to exercise discretion when deciding whether or not to allow their children to play the game.

In terms of mature content, ActRaiser 2 contains:

• Mild violence: Players will encounter various enemies, obstacles, and traps during gameplay.
• Brief suggestive humor: Some dialogue and cutscenes may contain mild innuendos or suggestive themes.
• Fantasy-related themes: The game features fantasy creatures, magic, and other supernatural elements.

Overall, ActRaiser 2 is an excellent choice for gamers of all ages who enjoy action-strategy games with a unique twist. Its addictive gameplay mechanics, colorful graphics, and memorable soundtrack make it a must-play experience for anyone interested in retro gaming or strategy enthusiasts.

Conclusion

ActRaiser 2 is a masterclass in game design, offering a unique blend of city-building, angelic combat, and dungeon crawling that has captivated gamers for decades. Its innovative gameplay mechanics, addictive nature, and memorable soundtrack have made it a cult classic among retro gamers and strategy enthusiasts alike.

If you're looking for a game that will challenge your skills, test your strategic thinking, and provide hours of entertainment, then ActRaiser 2 is the perfect choice. With its ESRB rating of E for Everyone, this game is suitable for players of all ages, making it an excellent addition to any gaming library.

So, if you're ready to embark on a journey that will take you from the earth to heaven and back again, then ActRaiser 2 is waiting for you.