Platypus II
- August 15, 2014
- Idigicon
"Platypus II" is a remastered version of the classic arcade game, where players control the Platypus fighter to protect Mungola from enemies. The game features stunning claymation graphics, cooperative multi-player mode for up to 3 players, and two difficulty levels. Fly through a beautifully crafted clay world and collect power-ups and bonuses, offering fun for all ages. Join the active community on the Claymatic Games Discord for more information.
Reviews
- The game retains the fun gameplay and nostalgic claymation style that fans loved from the original.
- It introduces new features such as three-player co-op and different ship types, adding variety to the gameplay.
- The soundtrack includes remixes of classic tunes, which some players find enjoyable and nostalgic.
- The game suffers from poor optimization, including choppy framerates and sound issues, with audio only coming from one speaker.
- Many players feel that the game is a cash grab, lacking originality and reusing content from the first game without significant improvements.
- The difficulty is ramped up excessively, making it frustrating for players, even on easier settings.
- music27 mentions
- 30 % positive mentions
- 59 % neutral mentions
- 11 % negative mentions
The music in the game has received mixed reviews, with some praising its nostalgic charm reminiscent of Commodore 64 tunes, particularly highlighting the rich ambiance of level 3. However, many users find the soundtrack repetitive and less appealing compared to its predecessor, Platypus 1, with some tracks described as "boring" and "disco on meth." Overall, while there are standout moments, the general consensus is that the music does not live up to expectations set by earlier titles in the series.
“I'd say, world 3 music is new and it's the best tune of all present.”
“The phenomenal music brings my score to a solid 10/10.”
“The music is fantastic, the gameplay is good for those that are starting to play shoot 'em ups.”
“The soundtrack primarily remixes existing tunes and it sounds less appealing compared to Platypus 1.”
“Plus, all of the tracks in this game are, just like with Platypus 1, actually remakes of music from C64 games.”
“The music is catchy, albeit worse than the original.”
- gameplay13 mentions
- 38 % positive mentions
- 38 % neutral mentions
- 23 % negative mentions
The gameplay retains the core mechanics of the original Platypus while introducing slight enhancements and new challenges as players progress through levels. While some features may feel janky and there is a lack of variety in enemies, the overall experience is smooth and enjoyable, particularly for newcomers to the shoot 'em up genre. The game also features a mix of repetitive and nostalgic music, which can enhance or detract from the gameplay experience depending on the level.
“Same gameplay style as the original Platypus, just enhanced slightly.”
“The music also is good, as well as the gameplay mechanics and difficulty balance.”
“Each of the 5 worlds brings something unique and introduces new mechanics, which towards the end of the game are all working to stop you from winning.”
“Overall, the gameplay is the same as part 1, but some features may be a bit janky compared to the original; it's playable nonetheless.”
“There are useless types of weaponry (the type II) that must be discarded. Sound effects and music should be in full control like those from Platypus I, and some improvements and balance in gameplay must be considered.”
“- No variety in terms of enemies or gameplay.”
- graphics9 mentions
- 33 % positive mentions
- 33 % neutral mentions
- 33 % negative mentions
The graphics of the game have received mixed reviews, with some players finding the claymation art style charming and nostalgic, while others criticize the visuals as inferior to its predecessor, Platypus 1. Despite the dated graphics, many agree that the gameplay remains smooth and enjoyable, making it a worthwhile experience for those who appreciate its unique aesthetic. Overall, the graphics are seen as a significant but not entirely detrimental aspect of the game.
“I love the 'clay style' graphics!”
“The art style is so pleasing to the eye; the claymation makes it an instant classic!”
“The first Platypus isn't an easy game either, but it runs so much smoother and the visuals are superior, making it more fun to play.”
“While the graphics and enemy concepts are definitely worse than Platypus 1, I'd say they're still decent.”
“Not to mention the absolutely bizarre final level and its awful graphics, and that's the worst part about this game.”
“Graphics - 5/10. Let's face it, it's a really old game, but the clay shapes have their style.”
- story1 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 300 % negative mentions
The game's story is criticized for its lack of coherence and context, leaving players feeling disoriented, particularly in world 5. Additionally, technical issues, such as sound being heard only from one side, further detract from the overall narrative experience.
“I played both versions, and I would say that this game lacks a storyline or lore, as well as any context regarding what, when, or why things are happening. Everything feels like a fever dream, especially in World 5. Not only does it lack a coherent story, but the sounds are only heard from one side, and I couldn't find a solution until I realized it was a game issue.”
“The narrative is disjointed and fails to engage the player. There are too many loose ends and unanswered questions that leave you feeling unsatisfied.”
“The story feels rushed and underdeveloped, making it hard to connect with the characters or care about the outcome.”
- optimization1 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 300 % negative mentions
The game is criticized for being poorly optimized, leading to performance issues that detract from the overall experience.
“The game is poorly optimized, leading to frequent frame drops and stuttering during gameplay.”
“I experienced significant lag and long loading times, which really detracted from the overall experience.”
“Despite having a high-end PC, the game struggles to maintain a stable frame rate, indicating serious optimization issues.”
- replayability1 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 300 % negative mentions
The game's replayability is rated low, with users noting that it can be completed in under two hours, limiting the incentive to replay.
“Length - 4/10: The entire game can be completed in less than 2 hours, which severely limits its replay value.”
“The lack of meaningful choices and consequences makes replaying the game feel pointless.”
“Once you've experienced the story, there's little incentive to go through it again.”