Review: Trine 2 (PC)

11 Dec, 2011

Title: Trine 2
Platform: PC, XBox 360, PS3
Developer: FrozenByte
Publisher: FrozenByte
TL;DR: Fantasy, fun and side-scrolling action in this enjoyable puzzle platformer.
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When Trine released in 2009, it was met with plenty of success and praise. The tight puzzling mechanics and enjoyable combat mixed with cerebral physics-based puzzling all helped to create a great sidescroller. Now, as we approach Christmas of 2011, I’ve had a chance to sit down and play Trine 2. Read on for some thoughts on my experience with the game so far.

If you’re a fan of the original Trine, you’ll be happy to know a great deal of the ‘Trine formula’ makes a return in this sequel. Physics based puzzling with a smattering of combat is what’s on the menu, all set in a fantasy setting starring the lovable cast of the original. The wily Thief, cowardly Wizard, and well-meaning but slightly oafish Knight are once again yours to command, swapped between at the press of a button, bound to one singular existence as they are by the mysterious Trine artifact.

It’s evident that where FrozenByte have really focused their efforts is in refining the already-fun mechanics of the series. The controls are noticeably more responsive — I played with a controller this time around, and would recommend it for the best experience, but the keyboard and mouse also serve amicably. Gone are some of the niggles that broke the flow of the original game: The wizard is no longer burdened by a limited supply of mana, and the thief’s swinging rope now automatically attaches itself to the closest wooden surface when fired, rather than requiring manual aim. These tweaks and numerous others have the game controls polished to near perfection.

Combat feels more satisfying this time around, too, while playing as the Knight who can wield either his trusty sword and shield or a hefty sledgehammer which can also be used to smash certain elements of the environment. The thief’s bow was a source of some frustration for me, something also true in the first game. The draw time required for a powerful shot is just long enough to prevent the Thief from feeling viable when the going gets tough in combat, and you are swamped with goblins. Judging the trajectory of the arrows was occasionally problematic for me, but this is something that will vary between players. All things considered, the Thief is still great fun to use, and feels by far the most sensible option for platforming with.

Trine 2 looks gorgeous. From the whimsical fantasy aesthetic to the fantastic use of colour (the game is dripping with vibrant blues and greens, and deeply saturated purples and oranges abound), every element of the environment looks and sounds fantastic. Dynamic shadows and shimmering lights play over scenery in genuinely some of the best use of lighting I’ve seen in a game this year. One thing that had me particularly impressed was the use of physics-based water. Far from a mere visual treat, the water serves an interesting and fun purpose in puzzling. Channeling the liquid, reflecting it off of the Knight’s shield in order to inch it just that tiny bit further toward the sparkling seeds which sprout into enormous flora which can then be scaled is brilliant, and adds a dynamic feel to puzzle solving.

The ability to solve a puzzle through your own ingenuity, often to the contrary of the sometimes-obvious hints laid out by the level design is incredibly gratifying. Knowing I got past an obstacle in a way that wasn’t strictly intended had me more cheerful that I’d like to admit. Exploration is rewarded, too, most often with vials of experience points — blue shining bottles, the obtaining of which is often a puzzle all of itself, which are collected to unlock perks that benefit the characters in some way, be it a flaming sword or the ability to levitate monsters. The occasional treasure chest presents itself for the opening, too, often containing collectables.

Trine 2′s narrative concerns itself with an entirely new tale, set chronologically after the events of the first game. After a brief reunion and tutorial-esque sequence, the trio are dumped into a lush magical forest and the game commences in earnest. The format of the narrative (a warm, aged narrator reading from a storybook with occasional interjection from the trio) carries over from the original and remains quaint and enjoyable, tying levels together in a pleasing way.

While I was unable to test the multiplayer component of Trine 2 for this review, it’s reassuring to know that co-operative play makes a return so you can enjoy puzzling with your friends. While setting up my controller I also stumbled across the option for local multiplayer which is a fantastic addition that more games should feature.

If you enjoyed Trine to any degree, Trine 2 is more than worth your time. I find myself wanting to describe it as good, honest fun — the quirky fantasy setting and intentionally archetypal characters elicit goofy smiles from me rather than weary sighs, and the whole experience is just… endearing. If you have any interest in puzzle solving, side-scrolling or hitting things with sledgehammers, give serious thought to picking up this gem.

Family Focus
With a PEGI 12+ Rating and only mild fantasy violence, this is a game that everybody can enjoy.