Review by David Odell Overview - Backstory • Jazz Jackrabbit 2 features the adventures of Jazz Jackrabbit and his brother Spaz in their attempt to prevent a time machine from being used. – Both Jazz and Spaz are playable characters. • Returning from the original is arch- nemesis Devan Shell. • None of this actually matters. Overview - Game • Jazz Jackrabbit 2 is a sidescroller – One of the few produced since the rise of 3D gaming • Game relies on fast action and attractive* graphics – Original Jazz Jackrabbit was a Sonic clone with projectile weapons – Second installment follows same formula, taking advantage of improved technology * Depending on personal taste. The game is tiny! • An installation of Jazz Jackrabbit 2 is only about 50 MB • Game running time is about eight hours. ► From the ending animation; there are two of these in the game. The other runs during game startup. Gameplay • Gameplay in Jazz Jackrabbit 2 focuses almost exclusively on running, jumping, and shooting. – No explicit goals aside from finishing levels – No NPCs – No specialized tools (other than munitions) Gameplay • Jazz (or Spaz) are both a particularly speedy breed of rabbit • Gameplay is fast – It can be very fast if the player doesn't take the time to find powerups and engage enemies. – Fast reflexes and a good frame rate are a must. Level Design • Levels are typical for a platform game • Ammunition is strewn throughout each level • Spring platforms let Jazz (or Spaz) fly to great heights – Of course, many areas are only accessible via one of these springs. • Coins provide access to bonus areas • Carrots provide health Enemies • AI is unsophisticated in all but a few cases. – Many enemies will simply walk back and forth – Only a few will actively seek out to harm the player • Following the general aesthetic of the game, enemies are more whimsical than menacing. – This isn't Doom, you know. Aesthetics • The game has a very carefree and whimsical style • Art is bright, colorful, cartoon-y • Sound is playful. Not a whole lot of bass here. • Music is upbeat – This is in contrast with Jazz Jackrabbit 1, which had a more techno-themed soundtrack. Spaz is disabled by some toxic gas in a 60's-themed level. No, seriously. Aesthetics • Of note are the parallaxing backdrops: the game supports two layers of foreground and four layers of background. • Occasionally however, graphics can be sparse or repetitive..