Beholgar 2, developed and published by Serkan Bakar, is a continuation of a retro-inspired action-platforming formula that leans heavily into classic design principles while trying to expand its mechanical depth. It presents itself as a dark fantasy adventure centered on a lone barbarian hero facing off against ancient forces, but the narrative remains intentionally simple, serving mainly as a backdrop for exploration and combat. The real focus is on how the game plays—how it moves, how it challenges, and how it rewards persistence.
The structure follows a familiar Metroidvania framework, with an interconnected world that gradually unfolds as new abilities are acquired. Progression is tied closely to exploration, encouraging players to revisit earlier areas with newfound tools that unlock previously inaccessible paths. This creates a steady sense of advancement, as the map slowly reveals its hidden routes and secrets. While the layout doesn’t stray far from genre conventions, it is effective in maintaining a rhythm of discovery, giving players a reason to push forward and backtrack when necessary.
Combat introduces more variety compared to its predecessor, offering a broader selection of weapons and abilities that can be adapted to different situations. Encounters rely on timing, spacing, and pattern recognition, staying true to the fundamentals of side-scrolling action. There is an effort to give players more flexibility in how they approach fights, and while the added options help reduce repetition, the overall system remains grounded in simplicity. It doesn’t aim for deep complexity, but rather a straightforward, consistent style that emphasizes execution over experimentation.
Movement and platforming carry a deliberate, somewhat rigid feel that reflects the game’s retro influences. For some players, this adds to the authenticity, evoking the slower, more methodical pacing of older titles. For others, it can feel restrictive, particularly in sections that require precise jumps or quick reactions. This duality is present throughout the experience—what feels like a faithful homage to classic design can also come across as a limitation in a modern context.
The environments are varied enough to keep the journey visually engaging, moving through caverns, ruins, and hostile landscapes that fit the game’s dark fantasy tone. Exploration is supported by hidden passages and optional areas that reward curiosity, though the overall design remains relatively straightforward. The sense of progression is consistent, with each new ability or upgrade providing a tangible benefit, even if the game rarely surprises with unconventional design choices.
Visually, Beholgar 2 embraces a pixel-art style that aligns with its retro identity. The presentation is clean and readable, prioritizing function over flair. Animations are simple but effective, and while the art style may not stand out in a genre filled with similar aesthetics, it supports the gameplay well. The soundtrack complements the experience with fitting, atmospheric tracks that reinforce the tone without becoming a focal point.
Narratively, the game remains minimal. The story provides just enough context to justify the journey, but it does not attempt to develop its world or characters in significant detail. This approach keeps the focus on gameplay, but it also means that players looking for a more immersive or story-driven experience may find it lacking. The world hints at a broader lore, but these elements are not deeply explored within the main progression.
One of the more noticeable improvements over the original is the sense that the game is more complete in its design. There is a clearer effort to expand mechanics, refine pacing, and provide a more varied experience overall. However, it still retains some of the rough edges associated with its retro approach, particularly in terms of responsiveness and balance. These aspects do not necessarily detract from the experience, but they do highlight the trade-offs of adhering closely to older design philosophies.
Ultimately, Beholgar 2 is a game that knows its niche and stays within it. It doesn’t attempt to reinvent the Metroidvania genre or compete with larger, more polished titles, but instead focuses on delivering a consistent, nostalgic experience built around exploration and straightforward combat. Its strengths lie in its clear direction and incremental improvements, while its weaknesses stem from its limited scope and adherence to rigid mechanics.
For players who appreciate retro-style action-platformers and are comfortable with a more methodical pace, Beholgar 2 offers a solid and enjoyable experience. It may not leave a lasting impact beyond its immediate gameplay, but it succeeds in delivering what it promises—a focused, old-school adventure with enough depth to remain engaging throughout.
Rating: 7/10
