Step right up, folks! It's time to dive back into the world of robotic fisticuffs with *Rise 2: Resurrection*! This sequel to the original *Rise of the Robots* (yes, the game that was less loved than that weird cousin everyone avoids at family reunions) attempts to bring the metal mayhem back with more robots and-spoiler alert-some new musical tracks that will remind you that even frustration can have a soundtrack. Buckle in, because we're about to explore why some things are just best left, well, buried.
The gameplay here is like taking a ride on a malfunctioning robot roller coaster. Sure, it's got twists and turns, but the ride is a little bumpy and scary in all the wrong ways. This time around, you're given control of a stunning 256 palette rotations (wow, how generous, right?) for your robotic characters rather than just a few boxy options. Fight as various metal juggernauts, each armed with unique moves and some snazzy death moves known as E-X-E-C-U-T-E-D. Who said spelling isn't important? Combat involves dodging and punching-although you might feel more like watching than participating when your commands seem to take a vacation. The projectiles? Six distinct types that fire erratically and will often miss their target, which might as well be a metaphor for my love life. The graphics of the arenas are the highlight though, with each stage displaying beautifully rendered backgrounds matching the robot themes. Just don't get too distracted; the robots are coming for you, and they are just as confused as you might be about what button actually does what. In multiplayer mode, it's game-on with a friend, unless that friend is a fighting game pro. Then you might want to reconsider your friendship as they effortlessly wipe the floor with your rusty bolts. The combo counter named Chaos is a nice touch; it lets you track just how chaotic your gameplay is. If only it could track how many times you scream in frustration!
While the graphics might not make you weep with joy, they do manage to showcase some pretty remarkable designs for the characters, not unlike my high school art project. The mechanics might make you feel like you need a user manual to operate an oven, but at least your opponents look cool, even if they're flailing like they forgot the choreography. The background design tries to capture the essence of the robotic mayhem-you know, like a theme party gone awry-but it might be about as impressive as a robot with two left feet. Just sit back and enjoy the sight of chaos, but keep your expectations below the metal.
In the grand scheme of fighting games, *Rise 2: Resurrection* doesn't quite rise to the occasion. With clunky controls, graphics that feel like they're stuck in a time warp, and a gameplay design that might confuse even the simplest minds (like mine), this title likely won't be making a return to any gaming hall of fame anytime soon. If you're looking for a nostalgic ride, maybe rent it (if that's still a thing) or simply watch others rage through it on streaming platforms. You might just find their frustration more entertaining than playing yourself. All I can say is here's to hoping the next rust bucket gets it right-or at least better than *Rise 2*! Cheers to robots, and may they one day figure out how to throw a punch!