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Nidhogg 2 is the follow up to the multiplayer, critical darling of the same series. In many ways it seems to be the full realisation of developer Messhof Games’ original vision. The simple fencing game in which players would gain momentum by striking their opponent down repeatedly in an effort to reach the other side of the stage has been expanded considerably in scope. This includes a larger stage count with a variety of weapons and, consequently, fighting styles this gives the sequel more diverse gameplay.  One would be forgiven for thinking that Nidhogg 2 completely replaces the original by iterating and expanding upon its concepts.

In practice Nidhogg 2 takes an unconventional direction. The core theme of Nidhogg is desperation. The best moments in this game are when one desperately throws their sword after an opponent in a last ditch effort to turn the tide of multiplayer duels or scrambling to pick up one of the weapons that become strewn across the floor. Every moment is tense as the momentum of a duel can shift in an instant. This means that the players become as driven as their onscreen avatars look. What Messhof have identified, is that this desperation is rife with comedic potential.

Messhof has taken a chaotic, party-oriented direction with this game as opposed to a more contemporary standard competitive direction. This is most apparent in the game’s visual style. The clean Atari 2600-esque style of the original has been replaced by a busy hi-bit style. Artist Toby Dixon has created a look which conveys a far more striking and absurd world than the original suggested. This firmly cements this game as an action comedy. The funny moments do not always land due to the game’s pace, but many still bring a smile to one’s face.

Being a party game however, it would be disingenuous of me to ignore the two-player-maximum at any one time. This, coupled with an average duel length of 13 minutes, means that those not engaged by spectating will tire quickly of this game when playing in a larger group.

In spite of this, Nidhogg 2 is a hilarious game that hits an excellent sweet spot for a party of two. There is something special here that neither eclipses, nor is eclipsed by, its predecessor, but instead sits alongside it as something unique.