Aggelos 2 is the sequel to the popular 2019 cult hit Aggelos. This new addition is bigger and bolder than its predecessor, but it retains much of the original charm. Accordingly, it has a 16-bit dated appeal, exploration elements, combat, platforming, and some simple ability and character progression.
WONDERBOY BOBI has developed this Metroidvania game, and PQube Limited has published it. It is a single-player, pixelated side-scroller that focuses on gated ability progression, a large world, and the power of light and darkness. Each of these abilities offers a unique playstyle, and the interconnected worlds work in harmony to help you to move through the large landscape. This was great fun as you had to adapt your style if you wanted to progress.
Aggelos 2 is a story of lost power and redemption.
You arise in the Kingdom of Lumen. This fantasy location is ruled by the supreme God of Light. However, the armies of darkness are winning, and only the angel Aggelos can stand in their way. Sadly, you have lost your Celestial power, so you must gather your gear while pushing back the evil forces.
The story doesn’t really make you sit up and pay attention. In fact, it plays second fiddle to the action throughout. If you are a genre lover, this shouldn’t be a surprise. I wasn’t bothered by this approach as I enjoyed the combat, tight platforming, and the chance to unlock new abilities and reach new areas.
Familiar action.
Much of Aggelos 2 follows genre tropes. There are gated areas that must be activated as you unlock new abilities and gear. This funnels you into certain pathways even though you are convinced that you’re in control. This is nice if you like a little mystery with minor handholding. However, if you hate too much back and forth, you’ll probably become frustrated.
Where this differs from its peers is the use of light and darkness for progression. The hero has the chance to alter their form for any given situation. The light power is better for precision platforming and quick movement. Furthermore, you may gather orbs and activate light-based mechanisms. The darkness is as heavy and tough as you’d expect. You may break shadow barriers, use dark abilities, and decimate your foes with unruly blows.
The mixture of both powers and the unique locations was fantastic. However, they often rely on accuracy and good reactions. Flitting between 2 is a core idea, and the quick transition can be a bit fiddly if you are new to the genre or struggle to multitask. This may be a game breaker for some, but a little practice goes a long way.
Bosses and combat.
Much of the combat is a simple affair. Aggelos 2 doesn’t punish you, and there is some minor pattern recognition when it comes to each small monster. I enjoyed the simplicity and the fun enemies I faced. However, if you want a challenge, you must wait for each of the huge bosses.
There are 13 major boss fights that offer an array of unique challenges. Each incorporates the use of tight platforming, timing, and patience. Moreover, you must study, remember, and respond to their attack patterns. This was great fun even if it took me time to master each encounter. If you want immediate results, you will scream. Metroidvania games demand finesse and a layer of calm to tackle every key turning point.
Aggelos 2 highlights its retro pedigree.
I love the Mega Drive era and Aggelos 2 captures that perfectly. It is vibrant with a limited but fun colour palette. Furthermore, the world is refined but a joy to explore. Pixelation is the main art style, and animation and movement are a little boxy. This wasn’t an issue for me, but if you like clean and modern graphics, this won’t tick that box.
I love the audio. It is deliberate, in-your-face, and unashamedly brutish. The music is atmospheric but blunt. It has that wonderful 90s vibe that matches the theme and everything on screen. OTT sound effects match the fantasy mindset. With harsh swords and zinging magic, it has an out-of-this-world tone.
Clunky but easy controls.
The controls are a little clunky, but this dated approach works. With responsive inputs, easy-to-follow mapping, and a straightforward tutorial, you will master the controls in no time. Furthermore, the movement patterns are easy to follow, and a little practice goes a long way.
The genre is renowned for secrets and replay value. Thankfully, Aggelos 2 retains this style. There is plenty of back and forth, and this can be a little repetitive, but I didn’t mind. The tough bosses can cause a bit of a headache, and this could put casual players off. However, if you can get through this, there is plenty to see and do.
Aggelos 2 is dated and fun.
Aggelos 2 is exceptionally dated, and this is a blessing and a curse. The clunky design is appealing to retro fans, but it’s awkward when you consider the traversal elements. I like the boss battles, the gated progression, and the dark/light concept. Accordingly, it’s a good indie game, and I recommend buying it here! Can you save the day and stop the dark forces? Gather your gear, master your equipment, and show the strength of the light!
