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Review of River City Girls 2 on PlayStation 5

by Gemma Looksby Gemma Looksby photo Dec 2022
Cover image of River City Girls 2 on PS5
Gamefings Score: 8
Platform: PS5 PS5 logo
Released: 15 Dec 2022
Genre: Beat 'em up
Developer: WayForward
Publisher: Arc System Works

Introduction

Ever wondered what it's like to punch your way through a pixelated city filled with jerks while wielding an assortment of ridiculously impractical weapons? Enter *River City Girls 2*, the outrageous sequel to 2019's *River City Girls*. Powered by nostalgia and pixelated chaos, our favorite duo, Kyoko and Misako, are back on a mission to save the city once more. Spoiler: It involves a lot of punching, kicking, and humor that could make a cat laugh.

Gameplay

In *River City Girls 2*, players can pick from four initially available characters: Kyoko, Misako, Kunio, and Riki. Yep, you can finally switch it up if you're tired of Kyoko's hair-or if you're just more of a Riki person (how many players will have said that?). The campaign runs on classic 'beat 'em up' principles; it's you against hordes of foes that seem to have a surprise vendetta against our square-headed heroines. The controls are smooth, allowing you to unleash a slew of combos, including moves that feel like a mix of kung fu and jazzercise - ballet slippers not included. Unlockable characters provide added diversity, ensuring that you can keep the chaos fresh as you defend the city from annoying thugs (seriously, these guys need better hobbies). The game is packed with secrets, collectables, and, of course, meal tickets because even heroes need a snack. Each level is an ode to chaos, inviting players to explore and tackle challenges without the nagging concern of being terribly outmatched at every turn, which is kind of nice. But watch out! Backtracking is as real as it gets; your thoroughness could lead to ensuring you spend more time in alleys discovering loot than actually advancing the plot. But hey, a few rogue thugs never hurt anyone (except bystanders).

Graphics

Visually, *River City Girls 2* looks fantastic, and the animation gets high fives all around. The vibrant art style pops like a freshly unwrapped pack of gum with its colorful palette and eye-catching character designs. Each area feels distinct, from bustling streets to magical forests that remind you that gaming graphics have come a long way since sprites were literally just colored squares bouncing around (and yes, I'm rolling my eyes at the memories). The soundtrack is equally enchanting, blasting out tunes that could make even the most stoic of cats bob their heads in appreciation. If a game could give you an earworm, *RCG2* has nailed that achievement.

Conclusion

In summary, *River City Girls 2* is a delightful blend of nostalgia, combat, and sass. It may have some areas where it feels a tad familiar-like reliving that one summer sequel to a childhood movie you loved-but the humor, graphics, and gameplay overall come together for a triumphant return to the River City saga. If you enjoy double-teaming foes and using a pipe as a makeshift weapon, you'll find a load of fun awaiting you. So, grab a friend who doesn't mind a few pixelated beatdowns and prepare for a wild ride where mischief and mayhem reign supreme. Now if you'll excuse me, I have to get back to rescuing my boyfriend. Long story. He's probably stuck at a ramen stand again.

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