AVGN Adventures II, a Pretty Good YouTuber Game
Back in 2013, Freak Zone games made a 2D platformer based on the YouTuber, the Angry Video Game Nerd, and was heavily inspired by old NES games, along with other games he’s reviewed throughout his 7 years of doing videos at the time. The game was jam-packed with references from the channel, along with 8 tough levels that all had different challenges to face. It had one big issue though… The level design was very frustrating and borderline unfair, which made the game very frustrating when just trying to play through the game.
3 years later in 2016, the studio released Angry Video Game Nerd II: ASSimilation. The sequel completely revamped the structure of the game, making levels overall more forgiving (and less frustrating)! The levels are a lot more akin to 2d platformers you would see during the SNES era, challenging but also fair. The game also introduces equipment that boost your platforming abilities (including being able to wall jump).
The main goal of the game is for the nerd to travel through 5 different worlds, once again based on episodes of AVGN and aspects of Cinemassacre as a whole. Each world has 4 levels, not only making the life system more forgiving but also making each level communicate a more cohesive and interesting idea. Like the original, you can start with any level you desire, so the player can start with whatever world they feel comfortable with.
The game is an upgrade across the board when comparing it to the original AVGN Adventures, but there were a few instances where the game would feel unforgiving. Luckily, both it and the original are getting remade and re-released as a Deluxe Edition in 2021. From what has been shown so far, it upgrades both games visually and fixes up the abysmal, unfair level design of the original game. I recommend waiting for that to release before giving the game a shot, as you may have an overall greater experience.
AVGN Adventures II: ASSimilation is a very fun 5-hour experience, and I highly recommend it for any fans of the AVGN, and anyone who is looking for a tough, but fair 2D platformer. While I recommend waiting for the Deluxe Edition, the game can offer you a classic 2D platformer experience in the modern-day.
