Bleed 2

89%
Game Brain Score Based on 719 reviews
  • gameplay
  • story
  • music
Bleed 2 Game Cover
Does this action-packed sequel live up to its predecessor?
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"Bleed 2" is an arcade-style action game with a focus on fast-paced combat and boss battles. Play as the world's greatest hero, Wryn, and use unique controls to shoot, dodge, and reflect bullets to take down an invading force of villains. The game features 7 levels, 4 difficulty options, and various modes including Arcade, Challenge, and Endless. With unlockable weapons, characters, and abilities, there is plenty of replayability. 2-player local co-op is also available.

  • Mac OS
  • Nintendo Switch
  • PC
  • Play​station 4
  • Play​station 5
  • Steam Deck
  • Windows
  • Xbox One
  • Xbox Series X|S
  • Linux
  • Play​Station
  • Xbox
Genres & TagsPlay Modes

Reviews

89%
Audience ScoreBased on 719 reviews
gameplay80 positive mentions
grinding8 negative mentions
  • Fast-paced and solid gameplay with tight controls.
  • A massive improvement over the original with a variety of unique bosses and characters.
  • Great soundtrack that enhances the overall experience.
  • The game is very short, typically completed in under an hour.
  • Some bosses and mechanics feel recycled from the first game.
  • Controls can be difficult to master, especially for new players.
  • gameplay248 mentions

    The gameplay in Bleed 2 is fast-paced, responsive, and engaging, featuring a refined combat system that includes new mechanics like bullet reflection and a parry system, enhancing the overall experience. Players appreciate the tight controls, stylish action, and the focus on boss battles, although many note the game's short length, typically under an hour for a playthrough. Overall, it offers high replayability and a satisfying challenge, making it a standout title for fans of action-packed gameplay.

    • “Bleed 2 really gets the basics right, offering snappy and stylish gameplay that makes you feel like a total boss whether you’re dodging tons of bullets with precise dashes in slow-mo, reflecting enemy attacks with kick-ass katana parries or melting a boss down in seconds using powerful, responsive weaponry.”
    • “The gameplay is super responsive, controls beautifully, and is just awesome to experience.”
    • “Now what the game may be lacking in pure length it makes up for in replayability, even more action than the first game, engaging fast-paced gameplay and creative and fun bosses that'll make you keep coming back for more, especially now that there are fleshed out leaderboards this time around.”
    • “Somehow even shorter than the original (less than an hour of gameplay).”
    • “Your standard attack is a boring win button against all enemies in the game till the bosses, and that's even before you can choose to use your slow down time mechanic.”
    • “The minibosses in particular are painfully simple at times and they become the bulk of the gameplay.”
  • story144 mentions

    The story in Bleed 2 is generally considered short and simplistic, often described as a generic "save the world" plot that lacks depth compared to its predecessor. While it features a light-hearted and humorous tone, many players feel it is overshadowed by the game's focus on gameplay mechanics and replayability, with some expressing a desire for a more substantial narrative experience. Overall, the story serves as a backdrop to the action rather than a central element, appealing primarily to those who prioritize gameplay over narrative complexity.

    • “Sometimes, what you want is a deep and emotional indie game, with a gut-wrenching story and an immersive atmosphere, so it can draw you in, expand your notions of what a video game can be, and make you reflect about life and the nature of reality.”
    • “The story has this clearly tongue-in-cheek tone that makes the most of its absurd setting, making it hilarious, fun, and even a bit endearing at times.”
    • “It may not have much narrative-wise, but its story keeps a simple, cartoony vibe of fun that maintains the focus on kicking ass throughout the campaign.”
    • “The story: this is probably the weakest part of the game.”
    • “The story is shallow.”
    • “There isn’t much of a storyline, so if you’re looking for something like that, move along; this is meant to be a game more for the arcade/action gamer.”
  • music122 mentions

    The music in the game has received widespread acclaim for its energetic and fitting electro-speed-metal soundtrack, which enhances the fast-paced gameplay and keeps players engaged. Many reviewers noted that the soundtrack is a significant improvement over the previous game, featuring distinct sounds that complement the action without being distracting. Overall, the music is described as a standout element that contributes to the game's unique identity and replayability.

    • “The pacing stays up throughout the entire thing, and it is all accompanied by this amazing electro-speed-metal soundtrack that really keeps the blood pumping and me wanting more.”
    • “The music in the game was very well thought out; for a bullet hell game, you really need something that isn’t too distracting but motivates you at the same time, and this game nailed it on the head.”
    • “Bleed 2 is like action movie crack that I never knew I needed, plus the music is top notch.”
    • “Every level is a series of projectiles, lacking the personality I loved about the previous game; Bleed 2 needs more/better music & sound effects.”
    • “The OST is much weaker.”
    • “There is no song as catchy as 'Hall of Heroes' from Bleed 1.”
  • replayability109 mentions

    The game offers significant replayability through unlockable characters, varied weapons, and multiple difficulty settings, despite its short main campaign. Players can engage in self-imposed challenges, speedrunning, and co-op modes, which enhance the overall experience and encourage repeated play. While some reviewers wished for more story content, the fun mechanics and competitive elements provide ample motivation to return.

    • “The game is short, but has a ton of replay value between different characters and difficulty modes, as well as personal improvement.”
    • “While it is quite short, you can unlock a multitude of different weapons, skills, and characters that offer a completely different playstyle for maximum replayability.”
    • “Now what the game may be lacking in pure length it makes up for in replayability, even more action than the first game, engaging fast-paced gameplay and creative and fun bosses that'll make you keep coming back for more, especially now that there are fleshed out leaderboards this time around.”
    • “The stapled together product is not as good and feels a bit on the greedy money-grubbing side of things; for 10 dollars, this game doesn't offer much replayability and feels expensive.”
    • “The game is over in under an hour, with replayability being largely self-imposed through things like different characters, harder difficulties, or higher scores.”
    • “There is quite a bit of replay value here for those of you looking to master a game, but for someone like me who loves a single-player experience, I wished this game had a longer story mode.”
  • graphics65 mentions

    The graphics in Bleed 2 have received mixed feedback, with many praising the improved visuals and fluid animations compared to the first game, while others find the art style somewhat simplistic. Overall, the game features a bright and charming aesthetic that enhances the fast-paced gameplay, though some players feel that further graphical improvements could elevate the experience even more. Despite these critiques, the visuals are generally considered a significant upgrade, contributing positively to the overall enjoyment of the game.

    • “The graphics and animations are really nice and fluid!”
    • “Bleed 2 also benefits from an immensely superb aesthetic.”
    • “The presentation is now improved with much cleaner graphics and very good rock music this time around.”
    • “The visuals: in bullet hell games, it's sometimes really easy to lose track of your character, or you're just confused where to go.”
    • “Great levels, great music, great bosses, graphics are kinda boring but the rest is all very good.”
    • “Such an action packed game, great challenge, great fun, lots of push buttons, the only shortcoming that I can think of is the graphics and art style, which is a bit too simple. If such can be improved to a rise and shine level, then this game will be perfect.”
  • humor24 mentions

    The game is praised for its light-hearted and effortless humor, characterized by a tongue-in-cheek tone and absurd scenarios that enhance its charm. Players find it consistently funny and engaging, with a mix of over-the-top moments and enjoyable gameplay that keeps them entertained. Despite some critiques regarding the sequel's humor compared to the original, the overall experience remains fun and humorous, making it a delightful choice for casual play.

    • “The game also oozes with effortless, light-hearted charm thanks to its unobtrusive sense of humor, quality pixel art, and simple yet well-presented story.”
    • “The story has this clearly tongue-in-cheek tone that makes the most of its absurd setting, making it hilarious, fun, and even a bit endearing at times.”
    • “It's funny, it's a bit over-the-top at times, and no matter how many times you play it, the game gives you new goals to strive for.”
  • grinding10 mentions

    Players express mixed feelings about grinding in the game, with some finding it excessively time-consuming and tedious, while others appreciate the removal of money grinding and the shift towards a more structured challenge. The overall sentiment suggests that while grinding can feel monotonous, the design choices may lead to a more focused gameplay experience.

    • “You'll need a second life for grinding.”
    • “I got more than half of the achievements in the fire game, but I just can't bring myself to grind for them in this one.”
    • “The challenge has also left, leaving you with weak transitions into tedious bosses with boring attacks and simple mechanics, at best.”
  • emotional10 mentions

    Reviews highlight a desire for deep, emotional storytelling in indie games that provoke reflection on life and reality. However, some players feel that the sequel lacks the heartfelt narrative of its predecessor, focusing instead on gameplay mechanics and nostalgic excitement reminiscent of classic titles like Mega Man X. Overall, while the emotional depth may vary, the immersive atmosphere and engaging gameplay are appreciated.

    • “Sometimes, what you want is a deep and emotional indie game, with a gut-wrenching story and an immersive atmosphere, so it can draw you in, expand your notions of what a video game can be, and make you reflect about life and the nature of reality.”
    • “No other game has made me feel as skillful as this did.”
    • “The music, the style, and the action successfully re-create the general feel of excitement and anticipation that Mega Man X made me feel as a child.”
  • atmosphere4 mentions

    The atmosphere of the game is highly praised for its immersive quality, effectively drawing players into a deep and emotional experience. Reviewers highlight how it enhances the storytelling, prompting reflection on life and reality, making it a standout feature of the game.

    • “Sometimes, what you want is a deep and emotional indie game, with a gut-wrenching story and an immersive atmosphere, so it can draw you in, expand your notions of what a video game can be, and make you reflect about life and the nature of reality.”
    • “The atmosphere of this game is really great.”
  • stability4 mentions

    The stability of the game is notably problematic, as players experience freezing issues when attempting to fire weapons, particularly in outdoor environments. While the initial gameplay is smooth, these freezing incidents significantly hinder the overall experience, making it nearly impossible to play effectively.

    • “So after I finally get into the first level everything is fine, the game is smooth, until I get outside. I can't even fire the weapons; if I hold down my mouse to fire, the game freezes and will only unfreeze if I let go. That alone makes this game pretty much impossible, but there are a few instances where I was able to run and gun.”
  • character development2 mentions

    Reviews indicate that the character development in the game is lacking, with many players feeling that the character designs detract from the overall experience, despite the pixel art being well-executed.

Positive mentions (%)Positive
Neutral mentions (%)Neutral
Negative mentions (%)Negative

Critic Reviews

81% average critic score

Buy Bleed 2

Play time

1hMedian play time
1hAverage play time
1-1hSpent by most gamers
*Based on 2 analyzed playthroughs

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