Windjammers 2
- January 20, 2022
- DotEmu
- 3h median play time
Windjammers 2 brings out that superb, rowdy competitiveness that any game worth its salt needs, I cannot wait to see what DotEmu does next.
"Windjammers 2" is a fast-paced sports game where players throw discs at their opponent's goal in a frisbee-inspired competition. The sequel to the classic arcade game features new stages, characters, and improved graphics while retaining the addictive and intense gameplay of the original. With online multiplayer and local co-op modes, "Windjammers 2" offers a fun and challenging experience for both newcomers and fans of the series.
Reviews
- Windjammers 2 features a unique and visually appealing art style, enhancing the nostalgic feel of the original while introducing new mechanics and characters.
- The gameplay is fast-paced and addictive, making it easy to pick up but challenging to master, which is perfect for both casual and competitive play.
- The rollback netcode is solid, providing a smooth online experience, and the game is highly recommended for local multiplayer sessions with friends.
- The game lacks substantial single-player content, with only a barebones arcade mode and no proper tutorial or training mode to help new players learn the mechanics.
- Online matchmaking is problematic, with a small player base leading to issues with finding matches and poor matchmaking that can result in frustrating gameplay experiences.
- There are limited game modes and features, such as the absence of lobbies and spectator options, which diminishes the overall online competitive experience.
- gameplay78 mentions
- 37 % positive mentions
- 59 % neutral mentions
- 4 % negative mentions
The gameplay of Windjammers 2 is praised for its accessibility, allowing newcomers to easily pick it up while offering deep mechanics for advanced players. The game retains the core elements of the original while introducing new moves and mechanics that enhance strategic depth, making it both fun and competitive. However, the lack of a comprehensive tutorial and varied game modes has been noted as a drawback, though the overall experience remains engaging and addictive.
“Mechanics are simple to pick up but there's a surprising amount of depth to accommodate advanced play.”
“The new throws and mechanics add a whole new level to the game, that feel fresh and at the same time familiar.”
“The core gameplay here remains as immediately endearing as ever whilst being enhanced and given a real strategic kick by a bevy of new moves and skills that add to the fun without detracting from or overcomplicating proceedings.”
“The game truly needs a training mode as all there are currently static screens with instructions, and even then the game features a number of mechanics and nuances that aren't explained in the game.”
“It doesn't even have a proper tutorial; it has picture slides, and not only are they not very informative, some are flat out wrong or leave out certain mechanics.”
“The lack of game modes with meaningfully different gameplay is unquestionably disappointing.”
- graphics39 mentions
- 54 % positive mentions
- 38 % neutral mentions
- 8 % negative mentions
The graphics of the game have received widespread praise for their vibrant, hand-drawn art style that successfully modernizes the classic arcade aesthetic while maintaining a nostalgic feel. Players appreciate the colorful visuals and unique character designs, which enhance the overall experience, although some have reported minor graphical glitches. Overall, the updated graphics are seen as a significant improvement, complementing the engaging gameplay and dynamic soundtrack.
“Love the crisp hand-drawn art style and funky music which perfectly complements the aesthetic the devs are going for.”
“The visuals are a perfect update for the original, with colors that pop like something straight out of the beaches of the 80s.”
“With amazing hand-drawn graphics, crazy new moves, gameplay mechanics, and awesome new characters and stages, Windjammers 2 is the sequel you've been dreaming of.”
“Also, after looking at the store page, a lot of the graphics on it are outdated.”
“For some reason, I am getting some graphical flickering glitches that render some of the maps, particularly casino, virtually unplayable at times.”
“Does anyone else have any graphic glitches?”
- music35 mentions
- 43 % positive mentions
- 49 % neutral mentions
- 9 % negative mentions
The music in the game has received widespread acclaim, with many reviewers praising its catchy themes, vibrant remastered soundtracks, and how well it complements the game's aesthetic and action. The soundtrack is described as a standout feature, evoking a retro arcade vibe while feeling fresh and modern, with some users expressing a desire to purchase it separately. Overall, the music enhances the gameplay experience, contributing to the game's energetic and engaging atmosphere.
“The music and presentation gives off a retro arcade vibe, but rather than feeling like it's taking you back to the past, it's more along the lines of bringing the past into the present; a very tall compliment.”
“Also has one of the best video game soundtracks I've ever heard, please let me buy it as an album, take my damn money.”
“Dotemu did a fantastic job reviving this old classic with vibrant visuals, an amazing soundtrack and rock solid netcode.”
“Also the terrible music in the trailer reflects the awful game soundtrack.”
“Music is headache inducing.”
“Wish they would sell the soundtrack separately.”
- story7 mentions
- 43 % positive mentions
- 14 % neutral mentions
- 43 % negative mentions
The game lacks a traditional story, tutorial, or campaign, focusing instead on gameplay and difficulty to engage players. While some appreciate the simplicity and fun of the experience, others feel that the absence of a narrative or progression elements detracts from its overall appeal.
“I really wish this game got the recognition it deserves as it just goes back to the days when a game could simply be fun without needing a deep storyline or epic set pieces, letting the gameplay speak for itself.”
“This is a game that doesn't need to be overly complicated with added controls or missions.”
“I'm having fun playing the game with friends, but trying to get good is another story.”
“There is no tutorial, no campaign, no story, nothing really extra at all.”
“As a single player experience with no story, the game relies entirely on a ridiculous difficulty level to keep you going, but it's just not enough.”
“There's no story mode, no battle pass, no unlockables, for better or worse.”
- stability5 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
The game has been widely criticized for its instability, with users reporting numerous bugs, unresponsive controls, and significant graphical glitches that severely impact gameplay, particularly in certain areas like the casino. Many players express frustration over the game's unfinished state, leading to a loss of confidence in new releases.
“Extremely buggy; most controls don't work correctly.”
“I've been burned by so many new games that are unfinished and buggy it has almost made me lose hope.”
“For some reason, I am getting some graphical flickering glitches that render some of the maps, particularly the casino, virtually unplayable at times.”
- character development2 mentions
- 150 % positive mentions
- -50 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
Character development in the game is generally well-received, with players appreciating the fun and hectic gameplay alongside a stylish presentation. However, opinions on the character designs are mixed, with some players expressing a lack of personal affinity for them despite acknowledging their quality.
“The character development is incredibly deep, allowing players to form a strong connection with each character as their stories unfold.”
“I love how the characters evolve throughout the game, making each decision feel impactful and meaningful.”
“The way the game explores the backstories and motivations of each character adds a rich layer to the overall experience.”
- monetization2 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- -50 % neutral mentions
- 150 % negative mentions
The monetization strategy of the game is not perceived as exploitative, as it appears to prioritize quality over quick profits; however, the lack of effective advertising has resulted in low player engagement.
“The monetization system feels overly aggressive and detracts from the overall experience.”
“It's frustrating to see so many features locked behind paywalls, making it hard to enjoy the game fully without spending money.”
“The in-game purchases are not just optional; they feel necessary to progress, which is disappointing.”
- humor1 mentions
- 300 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The humor in the game is highlighted as a significant aspect, contributing to its appeal alongside engaging gameplay. Players appreciate the blend of funny moments and accessibility, making it enjoyable for both newcomers and seasoned fans of fighting games.
“The fact that I can still recommend this $20 game despite its flaws should really make it clear just how amazing the gameplay is. It's got the same endless depth and funny moments that make fighting games so appealing for so many, while also being incredibly accessible to beginners.”
“The humor in this game is top-notch! I found myself laughing out loud at the witty dialogue and hilarious character interactions.”
“Every time I play, I discover new jokes and funny references that keep the experience fresh and entertaining.”
- atmosphere1 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The atmosphere of the game is heavily influenced by a nostalgic blend of neotokyo aesthetics and classic arcade vibes, enhanced by engaging music that complements the experience. Players appreciate the vibrant setting, which invites them to enjoy the beaches and the thrill of gameplay, making it a standout feature of Windjammers.
“The style, the music, and the atmosphere will give you a kickback to Neo-Tokyo and an old arcade feeling. Enjoy the beaches and let the disc fly with the wind. What else to say? It's Windjammers, and it rocks!”
- replayability1 mentions
- 300 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
Players appreciate the strong online content, which is stable and significantly enhances the game's replayability.
“The online content is stable and provides a great source of replayability.”
“Each playthrough offers new challenges and experiences, making it hard to put down.”
“The variety of choices and outcomes ensures that no two games feel the same.”
- grinding1 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 300 % negative mentions
Players express frustration with the lack of a structured tournament mode, which diminishes the incentive to grind in the game. Additionally, the navigation of the "how to play" section is considered cumbersome, further detracting from the overall experience.
“There is no structured tournament mode to keep players engaged in grinding the game, and the 'how to play' section is annoying to navigate.”
“The grinding feels endless and repetitive, making it hard to stay motivated.”
“I find the grind to be tedious and unfulfilling, with little reward for the time invested.”
Critic Reviews
Windjammers 2 Review
It may be several decades since the original was released, but the sportsmanship torch has been proudly passed onto Windjammers 2. It may lack a comprehensive offline arcade mode, but you can still get windswept into its addictive gameplay cycle and online competition.
74%Windjammers 2
Solid and definitely has an audience. There could be some hard-to-ignore faults, but the experience is fun.
75%In Windjammers 2, Power Discs Fly Once Again
The best flying disc game of all time is back! With amazing hand-drawn graphics, crazy new moves, gameplay mechanics and awesome new characters and stages, Windjammers 2 is the sequel you've been dreaming of. Nintendo Switch and PlayStation 4 (through PS5 backward compatibility) versions reviewed.Windjammers 2 is a safe sequel, restraining ambitions to make sure what’s delivered is fun enough. That means some might be disappointed! But it’s ultimately a fun game to play, especially with friends.
80%