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Beyond the Ice Palace 2 is a gothic masterpiece that filled me with nostalgia. Additionally, I loved its Metroidvania edge and the brutality of the demi bosses and the cruel guardians. I didn’t play the original, but that matters not. I could follow the plot without a problem and no previous knowledge is required.
This side-scrolling pixelated adventure was developed by PixelHeart and published by PQube Ltd. Moreover, it is a single-player game with a grim and dark aesthetic. If you don’t like pixelated games, this won’t be for you. However, if you love a trip down memory lane, you’ll want to jump in with both feet.
Beyond the Ice Palace 2 tells a story of revenge and redemption.
The King isn’t alive or dead! Instead, he sits in limbo imprisoned in a basement and tied by chains. However, his captors underestimate his strength and determination. The chains that once bound him are now his weapon of choice. This fallen leader must crush everything that stands in his way as he reclaims his throne from those who betrayed him.
The gritty story is dark, sinister, and cruel. Moreover, the dialogue is fantastic, and uncovering the foul lore was a fascinating experience. As you explore each area, you will encounter monsters, ghosts, wizards, beasts, and bosses. Each one wishes to put you into the ground, but you cannot allow this to happen. If you fall, you will respawn, but your cash will be taken and you must restart at the last checkpoint.
Straightforward mechanics.
Though the core concept is brutal and it is borderline unfair, the mechanics are straightforward. The hero is a shadow of his former self. Yet, once he gathers power crystals, he can regain his strength, vitality, rage, and much more. Additionally, he will unlock new skills as he takes down each of the guardians that stand in his way.
This is easier said than done as the demi bosses and guardians are brutes to overcome. Accordingly, I swore much more than I should have and I admit I nearly slammed my controller in rage. Thankfully, I remained reasonably composed as I studied each boss’s movement pattern and identified their weaknesses. Though this is key to success, there is an awful lot of luck required and this may drive you insane.
Beyond the Ice Palace 2 is wonderfully gritty.
Pixelated games may not be for everyone. However, I adored the grim colour palette and the wonderful stage design. There are many amazing locations to explore and loads of secrets to discover. This was phenomenal as you were forced to search every nook and cranny for hidden crates and treasure chests.
The audio blew me away. The oppressive soundtrack was a joy to listen to. Every overpowered tune matched the daunting action that unfolded. Furthermore, the slash of your chains and the explosion of fire sounded incredible. Consequently, the developer has created a dated but aesthetically pleasing game.
Great controls.
The controls are somewhat complicated. You can slide, dodge, fight, climb, jump, and more. Moreover, you learn new skills that increase your arsenal of tricks further. This makes mastering Beyond the Ice Palace 2 a bit of a tricky endeavour. Yet, once you get used to the finer points, you’ll leap between rings and dodge attacks like a pro.
The drip-fed skills and hidden treasure chests ensure that longevity and replay value are a central concept. What’s more, the Metroidvania edge demands that you explore each location once new abilities are unlocked. This was great as it made the time-consuming task a rewarding experience.
Beyond the Ice Palace 2 is a fantastic old-school title.
I was blown away by Beyond the Ice Palace 2. The gameplay is tough but enjoyable. Furthermore, the lore is fascinating and the grim aesthetic makes your skin crawl. Though the bosses are occasionally tough, you will enjoy euphoria when they fall at your feet. Accordingly, this is a fantastic old-school game and I recommend buying it here! Can you rise from the dead and reclaim your throne? Master your skills, unlock new abilities, and thwart those who rebelled against you.
