Tak 2: Staff of Dreams - Australian Review (Reviews)

Chris Stead, GamePro Australia

31/05/2005 11:27:24

We know what you're thinking, 'not another kids platformer', right? Well, yeah, it's choc full of by-the-numbers collecting and simple puzzle-solving - there's even a princess locked in a castle to boot - but Tak 2 is worthy of closer inspection. Blessed with some wonderful graphics and very funny characters, it is genuinely entertaining and offers an experience that gamers of all ages can appreciate.

Tak 2's strength is its characters. You'll fall in love with them right from the gorgeous introductory cut-scene which introduces our intrepid hero Tak, his tribe's shaman and comedic side-kick (and scene-stealer) Lok. You then begin a dual-world adventure, shifting from the Dream World (where Tak must save the Princess from the Staff of Dreams wielding Guardian) and the Jungle. This dual-world dynamic is very well executed and artistically impressive, with enough differences between enemies, puzzles and landscape to keep things lively.

In fact there is quite a bit of strategy to combat. As you progress through the game you learn new moves and encounter beasties that can only be defeated by certain combinations. Mix a few different beasties together and you really have to start thinking fast. There are plenty of puzzles too and although they are not particularly challenging, the way they make use of the wildlife (especially in the jungle world) is good-natured fun. There are also some truly inspired action-sequences, including one mission where you must guide a barrel containing Tak through the rapids and down the waterfalls of a ferocious river.

Tak 2 is presented with plenty of style and charm too. From the SFX (bees singing around the beehive) to the lavish environments it's all very pretty. And while this may sound kiddie, the vocal SFX, gimmicks (like flea throwing - yes, you carry a flea that can be thrown across gaps to bite and aggravate wildlife) and the ability to abuse animals have universal appeal. Plus, there are some fun and harmless multiplayer mini-games to unlock and enjoy, such as snowboarding.

In the end, however, Tak 2 does distance itself from the wider, older audience. There is a distinct lack of combat challenge, a little too much forced level lengthening, not enough mission variety and, of course, the dreaded collecting. Thus, it remains fantastic entertainment for younger gamers, yet still worth a gander for platform fans that are young at heart.

Verdict
A quality gaming experience, Tak 2's visuals and constant belly-laughs help lift it above the 'kiddie-platformer' stereotype.
Pros: Builds on the original game in style, great graphics, truly funny.
Cons: Too easy for experienced gamers, controls a tad sluggish.

Score = 8.0/10



[ Printer Friendly Version ]
[ Other stories about Tribe, Jungle, HIS Limited, PLUS ]



Graphics: 4.0 Sound: 4.0 Control: 4.0 Fun Factor: Fun Factor
Scoring scale: 1-5
Publisher: THQ / Developer: THQ / Release date: 25/03/2005 / Genre: Action, Adventure / OFLC Rating: G (8+)