The Escapists 2 may seem like your typical game, simple in appearance: captivating and retro graphics, cute characters, and an atmosphere that looks relaxing. Nothing could be more wrong!
The sequel to the 8-bit game of the same name is fascinating and fun. Why can I say that my experience with it has been extremely positive? Well, find out in my review of The Escapists 2.
The Escapists 2: you have one job
There is no plot in The Escapists 2. Indeed, no background story. We start the game and get thrown in a cell, in a prison called Central Perks. That’s all. Are we innocent or guilty? It makes no difference. Our only goal is to escape and gain freedom.
Exciting, isn’t it? Plus, you have to add a handful of guards always ready to beat us and our not exactly friendly cellmates. As stressful as it may seem at first, you have to remember to see every situation in The Escapists 2 as a big opportunity. Why? Well, let’s get a better look at the gameplay.
Freedom! (of gameplay)
The freedom of gameplay is a fantastic aspect of The Escapists 2. Our only goal is to escape, but how can we reach it? There will be no precise way. The only thing I can tell you is it’s not going to be easy at all.
You’re gonna have to create a real escape plan, try not to alert the guards, and disable the security systems. You will also need to create projects to get useful objects during your escape. At the same time, you’ll also have to decide whether to trust the other inmates and grant them favors. Remember, if you don’t handle everything perfectly, the game might fool you. You may believe you escaped, but you will be captured by some “enemy” you did not consider.
Regardless, you don’t have to worry, as you will be back in your cell, and after a short period of lockdown, you will be able to try your escape again. Honestly, I loved the tense atmosphere of the game, which allows you to empathize with the life of the prisoner. I think there are very few games that can make you feel that way, but The Escapists 2 is one of them.
Besides, I loved how sometimes the solution is weirder than you think. This game is mostly fun and sometimes getting away in certain ways will make you have a big laugh. I don’t want to spoil you, but you should know that on some occasions you can escape by exploiting dolphins (!) or even build a plane.
The more creativity you have in the game, the greater your chances of break out in a spectacular way are.
Several prisons with attention to detail
After facing the first prison, you can test your skills with other settings. There are several prisons in the game. You will always have to face them differently. Sometimes you’ll be alone against the guards, with no other inmates.
In detail, you’ll find yourself in a Wild-West style prison or on a ship lost in the Blue Sea. However, you don’t have to fear, because there’s always a way to escape. I enjoyed the work that Team 17 developers have done with the game. Each setting is original and enjoyable to explore. The game design is taken care of and the 16-bit graphics fit perfectly with the atmosphere of the game.
In a nutshell, The Escapists 2 is another example of how hyper-realistic graphics are not the most important thing in videogames.
The Escapists 2 and the joy of multi-player
If I have to find a flaw in The Escapists 2, I have to say that there is a substantial difference between single-player and multi-player. If you play alone you can have fun, but after a while, some phases can seem repetitive.
In multi-player, the fun will never end. The game becomes slightly simpler and you can explore the different escape modes. Having a trusted companion by your side is an experience to try with The Escapists 2.
I recommend you try this mode. I think it is one of the few games to try absolutely in multi-player mode. You will notice the difference and appreciate this videogame even more.
Running away is not important, it’s all that matters
In conclusion, you now understand why I loved every minute of The Escapists 2. If you have already tried the game, let me know what you think with a comment and I would also like to know your opinion on modern 16-bit games, maybe you can say to me which are your favorites.
Alternatively, if you want to try The Escapists 2, you will find it in our store at a convenient offer.
Can you escape the law? Well, find out with The Escapists 2!
