You’ll be left wondering why Beyond the Ice Palace 2 exists in the first place. You’ve absolutely played plenty of games like this before, and there’s nothing this game has that you can’t find done better elsewhere.
Overall then, Beyond the Ice Palace 2 is a competent entry in the modern ranks of Metroidvania-style games. The graphics and sound are a good selling point and provide atmosphere, and the boss battles are fun and generally challenging without being unfair.
However, the general gameplay is all a bit slow and the traversal awkward, which prevents it from...
Beyond the Ice Palace 2 is a sequel to a game I hadn’t heard of from systems I never played. While it has traded in its weapon choice, the dark style remains intact. This sequel, 35 years in the making, may not necessarily appeal to fans of the original, but Castlevania fans should find enjoyment here.
Beyond the Ice Palace 2 is a game full of heart and nostalgic charm, though held back by some technical and structural limitations. If you’re a casual gamer looking for a retro distraction, or a Metroidvania fan who enjoys uncovering indie hidden gems, you’ll likely find something to enjoy despite its flaws. It’s not a masterpiece, nor a genre-defining...
Beyond the Ice Palace 2 is not an easy game to love. Its stiff controls and punishing level design will turn away many players. But for those willing to push through its flaws, it offers a rewarding, nostalgia-driven challenge. In many ways, it captures the essence of old-school action platformers, tough, cryptic, and requiring patience to master.
It’s...
