Pikmin 2 Member Review for the GameCube

The sequel to an unusual Gamecube only game surpasses the original in nearly every way.

First of all, it is shown that the developers put alot of effort into the game, with the excellent controls. It is just like the first game and it still rocks.

The graphics aren't stunning up close but from far away appear fantastic, they look a bit like a fairy tale (in a good way). This is not to say that the graphics are simply ok, even though they're not top-notch, the artistic direction is what makes it work. The scenery varies in the overworld and it feels realistic, when your character moves through the grass and when they are attacking the enemies, it feels like it's natural for a Nintendo game.

The sound has some good music, even though it's a bit odd at times. It does fit the game in a off-beat way and makes it more immersive overall. The speech and sound effects really excell, concerning the Pikmin themselves. Just hearing their dying cries is heart-wrenching and makes their loss more painful.

Gameplay wise, the game improves in nearly every way. It includes 2 new types of Pikmin; a albino type that is quick, poisonous to those who eat it and can see hidden treasure and the purple one, which has the strength of 10 other Pikmin. They add alot more strategy to a game already filled with it. There is no time-limit and the player can go at their own pace. The caves are harder and challenging and the game also includes a challenge mode and multiplayer.

The challenge mode is unlocked after the debt is repaid and it is fun but challenging if the player is going for perfection. The multiplayer is amazing, it's not just some weak, half-baked mode. It is alot of fun to play and extends replay value for an already long game.

In the end, this is a great game for a Gamecube gamer and for a strategy fan. Rent the game first if you're not to sure you want to buy a console RTS.