Nocturnal 2 Review Summary

A gorgeous, smoothly controlled Metroidvania with satisfying aerial combos, though this sequel adds little new and its combat lacks depth and variety.

Strong visual upgrade: Reviewers consistently say the visuals exceed expectations and are a big step up from the first game. Many also describe the game as beautiful with a fitting art direction.

Smooth and responsive movement: Gameplay is described as smooth, fast, and with good game feel. Movement itself feels good to players.

Short but sweet: Despite being short, the game does not disappoint and offers a short and sweet experience. It is a fun journey full of secrets and platforming challenges.

Larger map than predecessor: Reviewers note the map is very large and seems bigger than expected. This is a clear expansion over the first game.

Great first boss: The first boss is singled out as really cool, excellent, and engaging. It makes a strong early impression.

Sequel adds nothing new: The game does not differ from the previous part, with all bosses being the same and new content literally zero. The fire-lighting mechanic brings nothing new, and new maps rarely introduce new mechanics.

Combat lacks depth and variety: Combat is dull and repetitive, requiring no spacing or strategy—just hit and dodge. Skills and unlockable abilities do not open up new playstyles, and there is no difficulty, making it monotonous.

Enemies are repetitive damage sponges: Small enemies are repetitive and constantly use grab attacks, which is irritating. Enemies feel like damage sponges, and it still takes more than two combos to defeat basic enemies with all abilities unlocked.

Progression and ability system lacks depth: There is no weapon variety, no equipment system like Hollow Knight's charms, and no upgrade system, making sense of growth less enjoyable. Not many abilities, and most Brand abilities are useless except a few.

Movement and hit impact feel off: Movement feels heavy and sluggish, the jumping animation looks awkward, and hit impact feels dull. Double jump causes a hang in the air before dropping, and basic ground attack roots you in place while air attack allows full movement.

Metroidvania genre identity: Many reviewers identify the game as a Metroidvania or side-scrolling Metroidvania, emphasizing exploration, ability gating, and map design with secrets. The Metroidvania elements are central to the experience, shaping progression and discovery.

Boss fights and difficulty: Boss fights are a key feature, with bosses that can be harder than regular enemies and may become invulnerable or knock the player down. However, some bosses can be stunlocked or defeated with long combos.

Fire-lighting core mechanic: The game centers on a fire-lighting mechanic inherited from its predecessor, where players light torches and use a flame sword to gain visibility and affect mechanisms. Fire also serves as a main light source and interacts with doors and gates.

Satisfying combat and aerial combos: Combat is described as satisfying, dynamic, and pleasant to control, with detailed action design and hit feedback. Vertical movement and aerial combos are highlighted as enjoyable aspects.

Brand abilities and upgrades: Brand abilities are unlockable skills purchased with upgrade points found behind puzzles and challenges, with nine total abilities. Upgrades can also be purchased, and sacrificing ashes unlocks new moves and buffs.

Strong overall recommendation: Many reviewers strongly recommend the game and say it is definitely worth playing. The sentiment is enthusiastic and broad, with several commenters urging everyone to try it.

Good value for the price: Reviewers repeatedly describe the game as worth the money, a bargain, or well worth every penny. Several note it is highly polished for a ridiculously low price.

Play both games together: Multiple reviewers recommend buying and playing both the predecessor and this sequel as a complete experience. They suggest the pair is more satisfying than either game alone.

Loved by Metroidvania fans: Reviewers say the game suits Metroidvania enthusiasts, hardcore side-scroller fans, and 2D platformer players. Fans of the genre are the most consistently positive audience.

Mediocre sequel, try carefully: Some describe it as a mediocre sequel that is only worth trying rather than strongly recommending. Expectations should be tempered compared to standout genre titles.

Community fair range: $5.99 - $9.99.

Game completion: 5.0h.

Story completion: 4.0h.

Endgame: 14.0h.

Sequel Loyalist: Plays through the sequel for story and familiar mechanics, comparing it with the original. Motivation: Continuing the story and supporting the sequel to a game they already loved. Stance: buy.

Atmosphere-Seeking Casual Platformer Fan: Relaxed exploration and platforming; avoids or struggles with demanding boss fights. Motivation: Enjoying beautiful atmosphere and a chill platforming experience without punishing difficulty. Stance: sale.

Hardcore Combat Completionist: Aggressive side-scrolling combat, repeated boss attempts, and 100% collectible hunting. Motivation: Mastering demanding combat and completing all optional content. Stance: buy.

Improvement over predecessor: Reviewers consistently compare the game favorably to the first, noting it is better made and a significant step up in story, visuals, map size, and gameplay variety.

Short game length: Multiple players mention the game is relatively short and small in scope, with main quests taking about four to five hours and full completion around eight to ten hours.

Inexpensive pricing: The game is repeatedly praised for its friendly, low price, often described as a bargain and much cheaper than the first game.

Direct sequel story: The game is a sequel continuing the story of the first part, following the warrior Ardeshir after the events of the previous game in the kingdom of Ytash.

Active indie developer engagement: The game is made by a small indie studio that interacts with the community, provides tips, and plans to add and improve content.