Asterix & Obelix: Slap Them All! 2

Since their first appearance in comic books, Asterix and Obelix have become symbols of Gallic resistance, and their action-packed and humorous stories have continued to appeal to readers and gamers of all ages. In Asterix & Obelix: Slap Them All! 2, the essence of these iconic characters returns to deliver a beat 'em up experience that combines the classics of the genre with a nostalgic setting that will delight fans of the series as well as those who enjoy the unbridled action of this type of game. Not only does this title provide the opportunity to deliver a good old-fashioned bludgeoning, but it also feels like a love letter to the legacy of the Gauls, maintaining the visual style of the comics and capturing the comedy that has made the legendary pair so popular. Without a doubt, this is an adventure that promises entertainment in every level, faithful to the spirit of Asterix and Obelix and the fighting genre that brings it to life.

Comic in motion!

From the first punch, Asterix and Obelix: Slap Them All! 2 gives the impression of being a living extension of Goscinny and Uderzo's comics. In this sequel, the 2D graphics maintain the visual style which characterises the series: every scene and animation seems to be taken directly from the pages of the comics, with vibrant designs that are true to the original spirit. The game evokes that visual nostalgia, taking us through Gallic lands, Roman camps, and even forests full of wild boar, and it does so with a love of detail that fans will immediately appreciate.

Simple but effective gameplay

Like any good beat 'em up, Asterix & Obelix: Slap Them All! 2 doesn’t try to reinvent the wheel, but it does perfect the experience of the first game. The gameplay is straightforward and action-focused: you choose Asterix or Obelix and embark on a series of levels filled with Roman hordes, clueless pirates and bosses. The controls are simple, but the variety of hits and movements (with comical and exaggerated animations) continues to make crushing enemies very satisfying.  The combos and special moves offer enough to keep us glued to the screen without having to learn complex combinations.

Story and humour true to the original essence

There’s no deep plot behind this title, and honestly, it doesn’t need one. The story is just an excuse for Asterix and Obelix to hand out a few cakes in the various levels of the game. Just like in the comics, humour is key. Every conversation and absurd situation brings to mind the sarcastic spirit of the saga. While the gags are sometimes repetitive, the development team has managed to take advantage of iconic moments from the source material, managing to get a few laughs out of each encounter.

Ideal experience for short games

The campaign mode can be completed in a few hours, which may not be enough for some players. However, this length makes the game feel snappy and accessible, allowing you to relive the adventure more than once. In addition, the local co-op mode is undoubtedly one of its strengths, as playing with a friend adds an extra layer of fun.

Enemies and difficulty: a close challenge

Throughout the levels, we will face a variety of enemies, from common Romans to bosses with unique attacks. The AI is not revolutionary, but for the type of game it is, it does its job perfectly well. The difficulty is manageable for most, and at higher levels it can test your reflexes without ever frustrating you. In addition, the boss fights are well designed, with patterns that offer a fair and varied challenge, requiring us to dodge and time our blows at the right moment.

Technical aspects: a polished execution

In terms of performance, Asterix and Obelix: Slap Them All! 2 is quite stable, with no frame drops or extended loading times. The soundtrack is simple, but it fits well with the action and the level themes. Sound effects, such as the classic "paf" and "boom" of combat, add to the comic effect of the gameplay and immerse the player in the cartoonish atmosphere of the Gallic universe.

A nostalgic and accessible beat ‘em up

In summary, Asterix & Obelix: Slap Them All! 2 is a fresh proposal for fans of beat 'em up and the Asterix and Obelix universe. With an eye-catching visual style and simple, yet addictive gameplay, it manages to capture the spirit of the comics while offering a straightforward and satisfying combat experience. It won't revolutionise the genre, but for those looking for a fast-paced, nostalgic and humorous adventure, it's an excellent choice. Get your fists ready and shout "For Toutatis!" while you are handing out firewood!