PGC NEWS

Three years after the original Trine captivated players, Frozenbyte returned with Trine 2: Complete Story. Does this enhanced edition live up to the high bar set by its predecessor? Let’s delve into the enchanting world of Trine 2 and discover if it truly delivers a superior experience.

alt text: Screenshot of Trine 2 gameplay showcasing the three heroes, Amadeus, Zoya, and Pontius, working together to solve a physics-based puzzle.

Gameplay: Cooperative Puzzle-Solving at its Finest

Returning players will find themselves familiar with the challenging puzzles, while newcomers might initially struggle with the game’s brain-teasing mechanics. Trine 2 shines brightest with its three-player co-op mode. Teaming up with friends to conquer intricate puzzles and battle fierce enemies elevates the gameplay experience. Many challenges require significant coordination between the three heroes, making solo play considerably more demanding.

Each character possesses unique abilities and weapons. Amadeus, the wizard, conjures boxes and planks. Zoya, the thief, uses her grappling hook and bow for ranged attacks. Pontius, the knight, wields his sword and shield for close combat. Successfully navigating the treacherous landscape demands strategic switching between these characters.

alt text: Screenshot of Trine 2 depicting a vibrant, fairytale-like environment with lush vegetation and intricate architecture. The characters are seen navigating the environment using their unique abilities.

Trine 2’s physics-based puzzles are truly engaging. From manipulating water flow to utilizing air geysers for vertical movement, the puzzles offer diverse challenges. For instance, in co-op, the wizard might create a bridge for the thief to cross and eliminate enemies or construct a lever for the knight to reach higher ground. While seemingly simple, these puzzles often prove deceptively complex.

Besides puzzle-solving, players must also contend with aggressive orc enemies. These foes, while not particularly intelligent, are dangerous and require quick reflexes to defeat. Even more formidable are the giant bosses, capable of delivering devastating blows.

To overcome escalating challenges, Trine 2 offers a skill upgrade system. The thief can eventually fire ice and fire arrows, the wizard gains the ability to conjure multiple objects simultaneously, and the knight’s combat prowess increases significantly. Hidden treasure chests containing collectibles like artwork and short stories encourage exploration and add replay value.

Online Multiplayer: Seamless Cooperation

alt text: Screenshot of Trine 2 gameplay highlighting the smooth online co-op experience, showing the three characters traversing a puzzle-filled environment together.

Based on extensive co-op play, Trine 2’s online multiplayer performs admirably. Connections are generally swift and stable, with minimal lag or disconnections. This reliability is crucial for a co-op focused game. Trine 2 offers both public and private game creation options. Public games allow anyone to join, while private games restrict access to Steam friends. Another commendable feature is the ability to join a friend’s game in progress, starting from their current level.

alt text: Screenshot from Trine 2 showing a detailed in-game environment with intricate lighting and shadows, emphasizing the game's beautiful visuals.

Level Design and Interface: A Visual Masterpiece

Trine 2 boasts a visually stunning and intuitive interface. Navigating the menu options is straightforward and user-friendly. The game’s graphics are breathtaking, creating a fairytale world reminiscent of classic storybooks. From whimsical forests to the slimy insides of a giant worm to Egyptian pyramids teeming with mummies, each environment is unique and memorable.

alt text: Screenshot of Trine 2 depicting a visually stunning scene with detailed character models, vibrant colors, and intricate environmental details.

The sound design complements the visuals perfectly. The music ranges from melodic and serene to epic and dramatic, enhancing the immersive experience. Even subtle sound effects, like the wizard’s spells or the knight’s sword clashes, contribute to the overall auditory tapestry.

alt text: A captivating screenshot of Trine 2 showcasing the game's picturesque graphics, including detailed character models and a fantastical background.

Final Thoughts: A Must-Play for Co-op Enthusiasts

Trine 2: Complete Story delivers a captivating experience with its stunning visuals, engaging puzzles, and seamless co-op gameplay. While the storyline could be more refined, the overall package is exceptional. The game’s enchanting world and challenging puzzles will keep players coming back for more. Trine 2 is a shining example of how artistic design and compelling gameplay can combine to create a truly memorable experience.

Conclusion: A Magical Journey Awaits

Trine 2: Complete Story elevates the original Trine’s formula with refined gameplay, stunning visuals, and a robust co-op experience. Though the narrative could be richer, the enchanting world, challenging puzzles, and seamless multiplayer make it a must-play for fans of puzzle platformers and co-op adventures. Embark on a magical journey with friends and experience the wonder of Trine 2.