Tomba! 2: The Evil Swine Return Special Edition Review Summary

Inclusion of US soundtrack: Players are pleased with the inclusion and patching of the US soundtrack, addressing a significant community feedback point.

Highly regarded PSOne classic: The game is considered one of the best platformers for the PS1, praised for its quality and charm despite its age.

Rewind feature enhances gameplay: The addition of the rewind feature is highly praised for reducing tediousness and saving time, making the game more enjoyable.

Tomba series appreciation: Players express love for the Tomba series, with many considering Tomba 2 as a great sequel that improves upon the first game.

Convenient save system: The save state feature and the ability to save anywhere are appreciated for their convenience and ease of use.

Lack of remastered music options: The initial release only included the Japanese OST and lacked options to change the soundtrack, which disappointed players expecting remastered or regional music options.

Lack of volume control: There is a lack of volume control options, including sliders for voices and music, which limits customization.

Poor technical quality: The game suffers from poor translation, graphics, voice acting, and sound effects, indicating an overall low-quality port.

Irritating quest design: The quests in the game are often described as irritating and involve fetch quests and workarounds, frustrating players.

Clunky and unintuitive gameplay: Some parts of the game feel clunky and are not very intuitive, affecting the overall gameplay experience.

Save system issues: The game features a save state system similar to emulators, allowing players to save anywhere. However, some players have reported issues with the save system mechanics and limitations, such as only having three save slots and losing progress if not saved within the past two hours.

Quest and RPG elements: The game incorporates a quest system with RPG elements, allowing players to complete various quests and gather items. This adds depth to the gameplay and provides a sense of progression and achievement.

2.5D and 3D gameplay: The game combines 2.5D platformer gameplay with 3D models and stages, creating a unique visual and gameplay experience. This blend enhances the platforming mechanics and adds depth to the game's environments.

Adventure and puzzle elements: The game combines adventure and puzzle elements with platforming, creating a diverse and engaging gameplay experience. Players can explore different biomes and activities, solving puzzles and completing challenges.

Soundtrack options and impact: The game offers soundtrack options and toggles, allowing players to customize their audio experience. The soundtrack significantly impacts the game's atmosphere, enhancing the overall gameplay experience.

General performance issues: The game suffers from occasional slowdowns, performance dips, stuttering, and lagging issues across different devices.

Audio problems and issues: Players experience various audio issues, including cracking audio, audio clipping, and worse audio quality.

Performance issues on Steam Deck: Multiple players report that the game is not in a playable state on Steam Deck, with significant performance issues.

Positive performance feedback: Some players report excellent performance with no crashes or issues encountered.

Low FPS in certain areas: Some players encounter very low FPS, such as 10 FPS in the main menu, and the Carbon Engine running at low FPS.

Worth buying now: Many reviews indicate that the game is worth purchasing at its current state and price, especially for fans of the series.

Good value for fans: Fans of the franchise find the game to be worth the money and a good value, especially after updates and fixes.

Recommended for new players: The game is highly recommended for new players and children, making it a great entry point for those unfamiliar with the series.

Positive reception despite issues: The game is recommended despite some issues, indicating that the overall experience is positive.

Request for other classic games: Players are expressing interest in other classic games like Blasto and Jersey Devil, showing a desire for more nostalgic content.

Community fair range: $10.00 - $15.00.

Game completion: 15.0h.

Story completion: 12.0h.

The game has a rough start due to initial issues but becomes enjoyable as players progress through the game and engage in side events.

Reported time to anchor: 1h.

Friction: rough start/release; OST issues.

Unlock drivers: game progression; side events.

Nostalgic Completionist: Thorough and dedicated, aiming for full completion and achievements. Motivation: Nostalgia and completion. Stance: buy.

Nostalgic Advocate: Casual and appreciative, focusing on the enjoyment and sharing of the game. Motivation: Sharing nostalgia and introducing the game to new players. Stance: buy.

Critical Value Seeker: Critical and patient, waiting for the best opportunity to play or recommend the game. Motivation: Value for money and quality improvements. Stance: sale.

Steam Deck: The Steam Deck experience for this game is significantly impacted by audio issues, performance problems, and control issues. Audio glitches and poor performance are the most severe problems, making the game less enjoyable and sometimes unplayable. Control issues also contribute to a less than optimal experience.

Mentions external platforms: Some reviews mention external platforms or references, such as the Steam Deck and an external review video.

Lack of effort in achievement icons: Players have noticed and criticized the minimal effort put into the design of achievement icons in the game.