PS2 Game Review: Klonoa 2

With the advent of 3D games it seemed as if the classic 2D-style platform games were an extinct breed. Namco, however, has dared to go against that common myth with Klonoa 2, a delightfully fun and exciting platform game that is a great experience for gamers of all ages. Klonoa 2 is a throwback to the old-school style platformers such as Super Mario Bros. and Sonic the Hedgehog. What makes Klonoa different is his way of dealing with enemies: his ring shoots a beam to capture his enemies, and then he throws them at objects in the world to solve puzzles. He can leap into the air holding an enemy and bounce off of it to reach higher ground. He can throw enemies at switches to activate them. He can even use special types of enemies that transport him to higher ground or give him special powers. Controlling Klonoa and where he directs the enemies is very fluid and responsive, and within one minute of playing the game everything begins to come together and make sense. Once the basics are covered, it is interesting to see how the designers molded the game's simple mechanics into tricky yet fun puzzles that are neither too easy nor too difficult. The game's graphics are in full 3D, but the gameplay follows the rules of 2D platform games where the character moves on a set pathway. Thankfully, this eliminates those awkward moments associated with 3D games where you lose your way and wander around not knowing where to go. It also solves the problem of depth perception that most 2D games have, since the 3D world spins and pans around Klonoa while still retaining the linear 2D "rail" pathway. Obscure camera angles are never a problem either, thanks to Namco's great game design. It is rare nowadays to see a game constructed so well as Klonoa 2 where it flows at a smooth pace and never hits a show-stopping snag. Klonoa 2 is an experience of constant, seamless fun where boredom never strikes and the wonders never end.

Klonoa 2's graphics place artistic style over technical strength. Although the graphics themselves aren't Gran Turismo 3 caliber, the sheer lushness of the environments and the vibrant colors stand on their own and distinguish the game from the other flashier PS2 titles. Each level has brief but magnificent vistas where a large portion of the world passes by, usually as Klonoa launches himself from a cannon or descends from the top of a building. Klonoa and the characters are rendered in a cartoonish cel-style with fluid, expressive movements. Small details such as his large ears blowing in the wind independently from his body and blinking eyes give the game a lot of distinct flavor and character.

Klonoa 2's audio comes out strong in fully-fledged Dolby Digital 5.1, which is becoming more and more common with PS2 games. The music tracks are bright and upbeat and add to the already strong presentation of the game. The music matches the areas of the game, too. Caves have a low, mysterious glowing score, outdoor areas are harmonious and the snow/water boarding areas have fast paced rock music. The voice acting is unique in that Klonoa and his friends speak an animal language that was designed for the game. The cool thing is that the language varies depending on the type of character speaking. Klonoa and Lolo have soft cute voices, while the dog-like Popka has a wisecracking "Yow! Ow!" style and the annoying cat villain Tat uses childish, taunting meow speech as she sprints off with one of your essential items.

Don't be fooled by Klonoa 2's childish appearance. It is a game that can be enjoyed by kids and adults alike, thanks to Namco's excellent game design and clear direction. The game lasts as long as you want it to, for you can replay your favorite levels as often as you like with the handy world map feature, should you wish to find the many hidden secrets and levels deep within the game. Hats off to Namco for taking a risk and coming out with an outstanding title; Klonoa 2 shatters age barriers and delivers bigtime on the fun.

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