Toree 2 Reviews

Good wee game.

Toree 2 is still a fun time, but not as good as the first game. The level design is more direct and not as intentionally breakable as Toree 1, and therefore I found it a lot less fun to try and route for the speedruns. Also, the final level was a letdown compared to the first game, and the final boss didn't belong in this type of game. If anything, the extra levels that were added post-launch showed a lot more promise with different, and more open, approaches to to levels design, although the speedrun mechanics didn't really belong in those. Still recommended, but don't play it over the first one.

It’s hard not to recommend a game for just $1. However, as a sequel, Toree 2 feels like a bit of a mixed bag. The game sticks to the same formula with nine 3D platforming levels, but the gameplay has evolved, leaning more towards the fast-paced "gotta go fast" style of 3D Sonic. The first eight levels follow a new formula of extended linear running, with frequent boost pads to keep up the speed. It's not bad it's just not really to my taste. There's also not a whole lot of challenge here and the game is considerably easier than the first. The themes for the levels in this one are cool and more dynamic than the first game. There are also a couple of new boost pad/gizmos but they aren't particularly revolutionary and don't really add any new tech. The dark/sinister/weird vibes that develop throughout the first one are weaker here too, it all seems a bit rushed. What is nice though is the variety that can be found at the end of the game. After 8 rather linear speedrun platforming levels we get a pretty fun little boss fight and 3 bonus levels. These Xmas-themed bonus levels are particularly interesting as the first two abandon the speedrun style and create Mario 64 style hub levels. These are a welcome change and what I would've preferred to see more of. Overall if you enjoyed the first it's still worth the dollar and is a very pleasant half hour of platforming.