Waiting for a sequel can be tough, especially when it stretches over a decade, like with GTA 6, or feels endless, as the span between Skyrim and the anticipated The Elder Scrolls 6 does. But imagine having to wait nearly four decades! That’s the reality platformer fans have faced with Beyond the Ice Palace 2. Thankfully, their wait is over, as the sequel finally makes its debut on PC, a solid 37 years after the original enchanted its audience back in 1988.
If your gaming history includes the original Beyond The Ice Palace, I must commend your exceptional memory and platform game acumen. Released during the golden era of Metroid and Castlevania, it never quite reached the legendary status of those heavyweights but certainly carved out a niche for itself among Commodore 64 and ZX Spectrum owners. With Beyond the Ice Palace 2, the developers aim to bring this nostalgic charm into the present-day gaming arena, blending its cherished retro elements with the competitive flair of modern Metroidvanias.
This long-delayed sequel puts players in the role of the Cursed King, struggling to reclaim a kingdom in ruins and battling against the dark forces that have seized power, bolstered by an array of formidable bosses. Staying true to the original’s mechanics, players must seek out pieces of mystical ‘celestial arrows’ to regain their power and lift the curse.
Central to all the action are the metal chains you wield. Formerly symbols of your imprisonment, they now offer a unique twist on gameplay, serving as tools for exploration and combat—perfect for rooting out hidden secrets and vanquishing foes with a satisfying snap.
You can dive into this long-awaited adventure right away on PC, available through both Steam and the Epic Games Store. There’s an enticing launch discount of 10% running until March 24, which brings the price down to $17.99 / £15.29.
For those itching for more platforming excitement, our curated list of top Metroidvania games is well worth exploring. Alternatively, if your gaming tastes are a bit broader, our guide to the best single-player games will surely offer something captivating.
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