Volgarr the Viking 2 is a challenging 2D platformer that harkens back to the difficulty of classic games like Rastan and Ghosts ‘n Goblins. The game stars a Viking on a quest to defeat an evil lich with the help of Valkyries, focusing on survival and gold collecting rather than a complex narrative. Players control Volgarr, a slow-moving but powerful character who must navigate through levels filled with enemies and obstacles.
One of the key features of Volgarr the Viking 2 is its old-school difficulty, which can be both rewarding and frustrating for players. The game requires a methodical approach, with players needing to learn enemy patterns and make strategic decisions to progress. Volgarr is quite frail, and getting hit by an enemy can result in losing power-ups or even death. This means that players must be cautious and deliberate in their actions, rather than trying to rush through levels.
Despite its challenging gameplay, Volgarr the Viking 2 offers several features to make the experience more approachable for players. The inclusion of midlevel checkpoints, endless continues, and a practice mode after completing a level help mitigate some of the frustration of repeated deaths. Additionally, the game features Undead Mode, which activates after using enough continues and makes Volgarr more resilient to damage. While Undead Mode can be helpful, it does not eliminate all challenges, particularly in sections with tricky platforming.
One of the standout aspects of Volgarr the Viking 2 is the way it rewards players for skillful play. Collecting power-ups throughout the game can make Volgarr more powerful, providing a tangible benefit for those who perform well. This creates a difficulty curve that incentivizes players to improve and master the game’s mechanics. While the game’s true ending may be elusive for some players due to its strict continue limit, the journey to reach it is a rewarding and engaging experience.
In terms of presentation, Volgarr the Viking 2 excels with polished pixel art and a retro-inspired soundtrack that captures the essence of classic platformers. The game feels like a nostalgic throwback to the challenging games of the past, while also modernizing certain aspects to appeal to a contemporary audience. With its availability on multiple platforms, including PC, PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch, Volgarr the Viking 2 offers a challenging and rewarding experience for players of all skill levels.
Overall, Volgarr the Viking 2 is a standout title that successfully combines old-school difficulty with modern accessibility. With its engaging gameplay, rewarding progression system, and nostalgic charm, the game is a must-play for fans of challenging 2D platformers. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran of retro games or a newcomer looking for a challenge, Volgarr the Viking 2 offers a satisfying and enjoyable experience for players of all backgrounds.