There wasn’t really many requests to get a sequel to Sunsoft’s Ufouria: The Saga, a charming little platformer for the Famicom (NES) that recently saw a re-release direct from the company via a digital release. But, hey, that didn’t stop Red Art Games from teaming up with the company to deliver one anyway – and the end result is a surprise treat.
Ufouria: The Saga 2, picks up where the Hebereke (the original series name) saga left off, with Hebe and several of his charming animal friends working together to solve puzzles and defeat bosses.
The game doesn’t go over the top with gameplay, but its delightfully simple presentation (straight out of an earlier decade) and neat little aspects make it better than expected. This is a real delight for kids, as well as anyone that indulged in the original release.
Friends In Low Places
As you begin, you’ll set out on a journey to rescue friends, while butt bouncing occasional enemies. When they become unlocked, you earn new abilities, which enable you to reach other areas. You can switch between these friends with the push of a button, in a simple but sweet little set-up.
Along the way, you can also earn coins, usually from enemies and bosses that you defeat. Once you make the journey back home, you can cash them in and collect additional power-ups, as well as other abilities and health increases.
The only downside to that? Well, the game isn’t incredibly challenging. In fact, it’s rather easy, and we saw the end in no time flat. What’s more, bosses don’t pose much of a threat either. But that makes this an excellent game for the kiddies, as well as those that want to reflect back to an easier time in gaming – you know who you are.
Ufouria: The Saga 2 may not incredibly innovate, but the developers follow the status quo enough that fans and newcomers will be equally entertained.
Brightening Up the Place
One advantage that Ufouria’s sequel has over the original is its touched-up presentation. It’s not 8-bit like the original Famicom release, but rather a neat little take on what appears to be a 64-bit side-scrolling platformer, like Yoshi’s Story or Kirby 64. The animations are cute and the world design is structured enough that you’ll enjoy what you see. The dialogue is also cute to read, and there can be some humorous moments where slime comes into play. Just roll with it.
The music is also upbeat and delightful, playing out with each world that you explore. The sound effects are minimal, and it would’ve been nice for the characters to have been given a bit more personality. But at least they aren’t annoying either. It’s a fine balance overall, if not entirely inventive.
You’ll Be Washed Over With Ufouria!
Even if you’ve never played the original Ufouria, The Saga 2 is a welcome addition to anyone’s game library – especially if you’re looking for something wacky and relaxing. It’s a treat for younger players, and a nice nostalgic reminder for those of you that grew up in the classic era of platforming. It won’t challenge you to your very last nerve, but sometimes it’s good to have a game you can just enjoy, with very little pressure.
Plus, we’re willing to bet that faces will definitely light up with smiles over this Saga.
GAMERHUB RATING: 3.5 (out of 5) JOYSTICKS
Thanks to Sunsoft for the review code!
