Rick Dangerous 2

STORY / GAMEPLAY
After the events on the first Rick Dangerous, an alien invasion to Earth is imminent. UFOs land all over the world, starting from London, kidnapping people and taking them quite literally inside some alien caverns, ice worlds and the like. Another UFO lands in Hyde Park and Rick goes there to settle the score. The game is more complex and more challenging than its predecessor. For a start, Rick is now armed with a laser weapon and bombs that can not only be placed but also slide across the screen, giving the opportunity for strategic bomb placements. Also, the Pogo stick is replaced by a punch attack. Rick can also employ a special flying vehicle in a few parts of the game. Rick's adventure takes him in areas patrolled by a number of invading aliens who, in turn, are protected by wall mounted armaments (lasers, deadly electrical charges). Some of these can be switched off via plugs and then turned back on if needed. Note that the first 4 levels can be played in any order. Surely Rick Dangerous 2 is a great action / puzzle / platform adventure although its high difficulty level. This futuristic sequel has kept all of the gameplay and addiction of the original including an extra level and keeping all the superb graphics and catchy sound.

GRAPHICS / SOUND
The CPC version is technically good having graphics with bright colors and pretty detailed backgrounds. As usual, the colors are more vivid compared to any other 8bit version. The sprites' animation is also smooth and pretty funny at times, especially when Rick is hit by an enemy as his sprite scales up crying! The sound on the CPC is also good, having nice sound effects and some catchy tunes at the intro and at the beginning of each level.