Platypus II
- August 15, 2014
- Idigicon
Get on Steam"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.
PC
Windows
Reviews
- The game features nostalgic claymation graphics that many players find charming.
- It supports up to three players in local co-op, enhancing the fun for groups.
- The gameplay retains the core mechanics of the original, with some new weapon types and power-ups.
- The game suffers from poor optimization, including choppy framerates and sound issues, such as audio only coming from one speaker.
- Many players feel the difficulty is excessively high and lacks proper gradation, making it frustrating even on easier settings.
- Overall, it is seen as a cash grab with recycled content from the original game, lacking the charm and polish of its predecessor.
- music54 mentions
- 30 % positive mentions
- 63 % neutral mentions
- 7 % negative mentions
The music in the game has received mixed reviews, with many noting that it primarily consists of remixed tracks from Commodore 64 games, which some find nostalgic while others consider repetitive and less appealing than the original. While certain levels, particularly level 3, are praised for their rich ambience, overall, the soundtrack is seen as a step down from its predecessor, with some tracks described as "boring" or "disco on meth." Despite these criticisms, a few players still appreciate the retro charm and catchy tunes, highlighting the music as a significant aspect of the experience.
“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.”
“Some of the best music ever on a SID chip.”
“The soundtrack primarily remixes existing tunes and it sounds less appealing compared to Platypus 1.”
“Music: the soundtrack of the game while the gameplay runs is very repetitive in such ways that they get very boring to hear alone, yet some others like level 3 are very rich in ambience, which suits well the level, or nostalgic, as it reminds me of the music soundtrack of the original game like the ones in level 4.”
“Plat II, not so much... just like the ramped up difficulty, the music sounds like disco on meth.”
- gameplay25 mentions
- 40 % positive mentions
- 48 % neutral mentions
- 12 % negative mentions
The gameplay retains the core mechanics of the original Platypus while introducing slight enhancements and new features across five unique worlds, making it accessible for newcomers to the shoot 'em up genre. However, some players noted a lack of variety in enemies and certain weapon types, alongside a repetitive soundtrack that detracts from the experience. Overall, the gameplay is smooth and enjoyable, with improvements over the original, though some balance and variety adjustments are recommended.
“But then, as the game progresses to other levels, the hype is on and enemies get bigger in numbers and tougher to kill, like the gameplay of Platypus.”
“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.”
“There are useless types of weaponry (the type II) which must be discarded; sound effects and music need to 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.”
“Overall, the gameplay is the same as part 1, but some features may be a bit janky compared to the original; however, it's playable nonetheless.”
- graphics18 mentions
- 22 % positive mentions
- 44 % neutral mentions
- 33 % negative mentions
The graphics of the game have received mixed reviews, with many noting that they are inferior to its predecessor, Platypus 1, and often described as "crap." However, some players appreciate the unique claymation art style, finding it charming despite its dated appearance. Overall, while the visuals may not impress, the gameplay remains smooth and enjoyable for those willing to overlook the graphics.
“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.”
“Graphics look like crap.”
“Not to mention the absolutely bizarre final level and its awful graphics, which is the worst part about this game.”
“Graphics - 5/10. Let's face it, it's a really old game, but the clay shape has its style.”
- optimization2 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- -50 % neutral mentions
- 150 % negative mentions
The game is widely criticized for being poorly optimized, leading to performance issues and a subpar experience for players.
“The game is poorly optimized, leading to frequent frame drops and stuttering.”
“I experienced significant performance issues due to the game's poor optimization.”
“The optimization is lacking, making it difficult to enjoy the gameplay experience.”
- replayability2 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
The game's replayability is limited, with users noting that it can be completed in under two hours, resulting in a low score of 4/10 for length and replay value.
“Length - 4/10: The entire length of the game is its replay value; you can beat the game in less than 2 hours.”
“Length - 4/10: The entire length of the game is its replay value; you can beat the game in less than 2 hours.”
- 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. Reviewers note that the absence of a clear narrative or lore detracts from the overall experience, contributing to a sense of confusion akin to a "fever dream." Additionally, technical issues with sound further complicate the storytelling 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 characters are one-dimensional and lack depth, making it hard to care about their journeys or the outcomes of their struggles.”
