"An average platformer, with amazing music."

Pac-Man World 2 is an average platformer. This game reminds me of the Sonic Adventure games. In fact, the entire reason I got it was because it resembled the Sonic games. You see, at the time, Next-Gen Sonic games were only being released for GCN, and I had only a PS2. I would not sell this game, however. I think that in ways, it is better than Sonic Adventure. The game is available on all three major consoles, and is very cheap. I seriously suggest buying the game, if given the chance. At the very least, renting it.

Graphics--10/10
The graphics in this game are amazing. They accurately depict Pac-Man, Ms. Pac-Man, and all the other Pacs. Each level has an amazing environment. My favorite of which is the forest levels. You are forced to ascend and descent throughout treetops. You jump on trampolines, and sail through the sky, seeing the forest from high above. The worlds are colorful and stunning. Lava looks like it will burn, and water looks good enough to drink. Though, the graphics in no way make the game. Still, Graphics easily earns a 10 out of 10.

Sound/Music--10/10
Probably, the best part of the game. The Sound is meh, take it or leave it. Just a bunch of bouncy noises, when Pac-Man jumps, but the music, wow, the music is great. The music is cheerful and uplifting. When I was playing the game, the music made me feel safe, secure. The music was captivating. It made me want to go accomplish something, something meaningful. I paused the game, turned off my T.V. and walked out the door. I walked back in five minutes later, with a 12-pack of Fresca and a year supply of iced coffee. Indeed it is great, very great. It is awarded a 10 out of 10, solely for the Music.

Controls--8/10
Good, but nothing special. An average platformer controller setup. I think the GCN version mimics the control scheme of Sonic Adventure. I know a lot of the buttons do the same thing. There is a jump button, roll, button, and a combination of the two allows for ground pounds and super jumps. Overall, the controls are good, yet they do nothing to seriously impress. More than mediocre, gets this category a. 8 out of 10.

Gameplay--7/10
It is an average platformer, and I repeat is similar to Sonic Adventure. Nearly a clone, just with less credibility to build a stable fan base. You jump around, defeating enemies, and bosses, and eventually making it to the end of the level. Now, there is also mini-goals. Like collecting all of the fruits, and there is a special bonus mission, which is a classic Pac-Man game, with better graphics. If only it had a little more. The collection of fruit adds a bit, but I don't think enough people care about getting 100% of the things in the game. I wish I could go higher, but I must give it a 7 out of 10.

Replayability--6/10
While the Percentage meter may keep hardcore gamers coming back, I don't think this game has much replay value. The fruit leaves it open, but again, only serious gamers are enough to complete the game 100%. Certain levels, I play over and over, though. It really depends on your mood. Sometimes, you may feel like playing for percent, while other times, you just want to beat the level.

All said and done, this game is an average. The musical score is amazing, and the rest is just okay. If you feel like trying it, try it. If not, then don't. I wish I could say more, but I can't. Thanks for reading, I hope I informed you, though I seriously doubt it. Good day.

Reviewer's Score: 7/10, Originally Posted: 01/23/06