The popularity of platformer sequels has been inconsistent. Many endeavor to reinvent the wheel and create a separate sub-series, while others struggle to retain the original’s strengths
Sometimes, the sequel will take over the original game’s strengths and create an exceptional game with fewer drawbacks
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Due to the potential for sequels to change the series entirely, some of the most remarkable game mechanics were developed in the second game and then continued throughout the entire series
My focus will solely be on the second-tier games of a platformer series or subseries, and I’ll assess how they compare to the original game in terms of quality and longevity
10. Mega Man 2.
Engaging Systems
Mega Man Despite being considered the best Mega Man game of all time by most YouTubers just over ten years ago, 2 still stands as one of the most iconic video games ever
The first time it was released the now-famous 8-boss structure, introduced the Metal Blade, which is on a different level of notoriety, and has some of the best music in any NES title, except none
While not as impressive as most of the subsequent titles, it served as a significant foundation for the series, particularly due to the high-quality pixel art showcased on the hardware
This experience is likely the most popular among all Mega Man experiences Position the entire series in the forefront A large number of people require assistance. It’s common knowledge that the most effective weapon to defeat Air Man is the Leaf Shield
9. Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode II
Redemption Arc
Sonic 4., as an entire subseries consisting of two poorly-received titles, isn’t the prime example of a great platformer, but the drastic difference in quality between Episode I and Episode II should be studied
The initial Sonic 4 was lackluster, exhibiting weak homing attack chains, slow platforming, and a poorly executed Sonic model that looked terrible, but Episode II eliminated all negative aspects and is now quite impressive
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Despite not being the greatest Sonic game, it’s enjoyable, has imaginative level themes, and music isn’t too bothersome. The game has made significant progress towards quality that the original could not match, according to all metrics
Despite this, it’s still not very mechanically interesting, with the highlight being Tails’ ability to fly whenever desired, and even a perfect game didn’t prevent this sub-series from becoming abandoned
8. Tropical Freeze is the name given to Donkey Kong country
Retooled Reimagining
Donkey Kong Country Returns A major resurgence and remake of the Donkey Kong Country franchise occurred, to the point where it deserves its own separate label Tropical Freeze Being a direct sequel
Although I can’t provide any details on how it might affect future Donkey Kong games, since they are not currently available, there is some truth to it One of the most exceptional 2D platformers ever created You should never ever hold your hand and instead put yourself in an incredible flow state
The game is brutally challenging, but it still provides a satisfying experience with the rolling and jumping movements from one platform to the next
A nice 2D platformer that doesn’t require you to use motion controls for a random basic action, this game is an excellent improvement over the Wii version of Donkey Kong Country Returns
7. 30XX
AN ew Power
A little-known mutant called Mega Man has caught the attention of those who are big fans 20XX , which served as a neat proof of concept for a randomized platformer experience, with some unpolished visuals, unsatisfying levels, and a heap of jank
Now, years later, we’ve got the advantage 30XX , a direct sequel with far cleaner visuals, tighter gameplay, and a truckload of new content that makes the roguelike experience far more varied and interesting
Essentially, 20XX has been replaced by this game as it offers a much more enjoyable and high-quality experience, with frequent content updates and delivering an authentic Mega Man X experience with each successive run And it’s severely underrated
The sequel remained faithful to the original’s previous success by adding more of its appeal. The game remains nearly the same as the original, but it is undoubtedly a better rendition
6. Rayman Legends
Expanded Origins
Rayman Origins Was sort of a Revival of the Rayman franchise The program was brief and occasionally unreasonably challenging, both of which were significant Rayman Legends Desired to rectify as a direct replacement
The game features the same type of fast and exciting 2D platforming, but with a smoother difficulty curve, increased level count, and enhanced multiplayer
The game is an impressive improvement and addresses the areas where Origins falls short, particularly with its Murphy levels. Despite the fact that the Wii U exclusivity deal didn’t work out, it remains nothing but a great experience
Despite not surpassing Legends in terms of art and sound, Origins still has its dedicated fans. However, it is still a significant step forward in many ways
5. Specter of Torment is the latest addition to Shovel Knight: The Shadow Lord
Stylish Side Project
Specter of Torment The game, which can be purchased separately, is an odd choice that is usually released in the same game as Shovel of Hope and is considered the third installment, but I believe it falls under the sequel genre
Plague of Shadows is the second out of four films in the series Shovel Knight Specter of Torment is not an exclusive game, as it’s the same game as Shovel of Hope but with a different character
Despite everything, Specter of Torment is an impressive work. The game is a complete extension of the original Shovel Knight, featuring fresh items and redesigned characters that offer more enjoyment through their sick scythe attacks and wall running
I think it has a much better flow state than the original
4. Crash Bandicoot 2: Cortex Strikes Back
Barrel Rolling
Crash Bandicoot Is a somewhat emblematic title Developed by a limited number of people It gave rise to a somewhat subdued and unassuming feeling, but not entirely Crash Bandicoot 2. With its almost flawless performance, One-Up remains the best game in the series
The third game’s lack of opportunistic power-ups and time trials is offset by its improved controls and levels, which maintain the simplicity and fun factor of the original game
By making Crash 4 more unfair, the difficulty was lowered for a better reason, and the game’s ability to hide its secrets was improved, making it still enjoyable
It seems like the perfect match for a direct sequel. Despite its flaws, it maintains the same level of popularity as the original and attracts more new fans
3. Super Mario 3 DW orld
Conquered New Lands
Super Mario 3 DL and A tidy and compact 3DS game that provided a satisfactory Mario experience while traveling, but with some drawbacks Super Mario 3 DW orld Takes all the fun out of a game and makes it even less enjoyable
It offers players a choice of playing in linear and large playgrounds, enjoying the cat bell power-up that has become iconic on Mario, and experiencing chaotic multiplayer environments
The worlds appear more expansive, featuring hidden treasures and some of the most challenging and entertaining bonus levels in any Mario game. Getting to a level higher than Grandmaster Galaxy is no easy task
By and large, it’s one of the most consistently enjoyable Mario games. It’s no wonder that Switch gave it all it had to offer
2. Sonic the Hedgehog 2.
Spindashing Ahead
One of the most impactful sequels I’ve ever watched Sonic 2., took the best parts of the first game and expanded on them, making for a ton of very fast, fluid, and fun levels that trounce anything in Sonic 1.
Besides its greatness, it also introduced series staples that would later be present in almost every Sonic game, such as the Spindash, Tails, and the unfortunately overused Chemical Plant
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If you’re willing to put in the effort and dedicate time, there are ways to bypass slow-motion platforms instead of waiting for long periods
This is the method that would be employed to create most Sonic games, especially 2D ones, in the future. The series ‘success was due to its release on a Tuesday, which has resulted in most video games being released on Tuesdays since then
1. Kirby’s Adventure
Not a Copy
If you know Kirby While being a pink puffball that gains powers from eating stuff and occasionally fights alien threats, Kirby’s Dream Land did not feature any of those elements
Instead, he played Kirby’s Adventure, the second game in the series, where a guy decided to get his pink coloring, invented Copy Abilities, and ended up fighting an unusual spaceman named Nightmare at the end
Almost The Kirby series encompasses all aspects This game marked the beginning of a successful journey and is now considered one of the best NES games, boasting incredibly solid gameplay even at 32 years old
The most influential sequel I know of is one that continues the series by building on the original, but also enhances it to such an extent that some people view it as the exact starting point for the show
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