We’re not sure what took Mad Fellows so long to make a sequel to Aaero. Not that we’re complaining, mind you. Game development takes time. What’s more, ideal game development takes even more time. But it almost feels like an eternity since we played the game back in 2017. Don’t fret, however. We finally got Aaero2for Xbox and Steam this month. And the wait has certainly been worth it.
This rhythmic shooter has two great components working for it, like the first. You’ve got sections where you follow lines on a track, which can waver in many directions. But then you also have shooting and movement sections, where split-second timing is everything.
The sequel improves on this formula with a solid co-op component, though local works much better than online co-op for some reason. And there’s a superb presentation at play here, from the fantasy-based environments to the wonderfully upbeat soundtrack.
This, folks, is how you do a rhythm sequel. And the team isn’t done yet, as a custom level designer is on the way. Now that’s how you make progress in a genre such as this. Let’s hop into the review.
Into the Aaero2
Throughout the game, you’ll fly through a number of environments in your ship. The goal is to get through the song with the best score possible, the general goal of most rhythm games. But doing so is certainly part of the challenge – and fun, might I add.
As I noted, the game works in two general segments. The first is following a neon-lit line similar in color to your ship. It can change direction quickly, but thanks to great analog control, you can usually follow along no problem. The early songs introduce you to the mechanics so you can grasp them. But the later ones? Be prepared for a nicely balanced difficulty curve.
The second segment involves shooting and ship movement. Sometimes you’ll need to dodge items in the environment. And then the enemies appear, and you’ll need to target them with lock-on lasers and gunfire. How you balance the two is actually very good, and a nice improvement over the first game. The gun can handily overheat, forcing you to react quickly with missiles. But finding a proper balance between the two? Utter bliss – not to mention a higher score.
Co-op stands out greatly with Aaero2. You can play alongside a friend in co-op, or try your luck competitively with PvP. Both work really well and keep you pushing for a higher score. Local is best, however. While the game has online play, it can take forever trying to find a solid match. But playing alongside a friend and coordinating on the perfect notes of a song? There’s nothing like it.
Along with that, Aaero2 has features to spare. Obviously there are leaderboards if you feel like score hunting. If you want to relax, you can do that too, as the game has several difficulty settings. You can ease your way into it before getting to the next step up.
Overall, Aaero2 has a much greater balance than the first, whether you’re playing solo or with a friend. Online will eventually grow into something bigger. As it stands, though, there’s still a lot to do. And it feels pretty darn cool, if I do say so myself.
An Improvement In Presentation
The first Aaero did a fine job combining futuristic landscapes with sweet little techno tunes. That said, Aaero2doubles down on this formula, and performs even better as a result.
New environments come into play here, and look dazzling. Whether you’re flying past starships or coasting along what looks like a lava-laden landscape, it’s gorgeous. What’s more, it runs at 60 FPS (at least, on Xbox Series X) and doesn’t miss a beat – literally. The neon-lit lanes and ship design are colorful, to say the least, and the enemies offer some pretty good variety. There are also some noteworthy encounters here that I won’t dare spoil. You need to see these for yourself.
However, a music game lives and dies by its soundtrack. Fortunately, Mad Fellows knows this territory well. It partners with Monstercat’s label this time around, with a number of tracks that fit into Aaero’s world. They’re thrilling pieces of techno, with some awesome rhythm pieces thrown in for good measure. Plus, can we just say it’s great to see Bossfight show up? Look them up – they’re going places.
So, yeah, Aaero2 moves forward in all the right places with its presentation. I just hope that other platforms get to see this title as well. I’d love to play this on the go on my Switch. Maybe one day.
Rhythm of the Heart
Easily ranking as one of the best sequels this year, Aaero2 excels in all the right places. The presentation moves forward in all the right ways. Plus, the gameplay is still phenomenal and challenging, with options for rookie players to partake in as well. And with leaderboards, co-op and replay goodies galore, there’s more than enough to come back to.
Not to mention the fact that the developers will likely add to the experience with more songs and the upcoming custom level builder. Imagine how much that’ll open up the Aaero community. These guys are literally flying into the stars – and you should experience their journey right alongside them. What a trip this game is.
GAMERHUB RATING: 4.5 (out of 5) JOYSTICKS
Many thanks to Mad Fellows for providing a review code! The game is available now for Xbox and Steam.
Want more awesome games to enjoy? Check out our coverage on Aero the Acro-Bat 2 and Castlevania Dominus Collection!
