Everhood 2, the unexpected yet delightful sequel from Foreign Gnomes, whisks us back to its eccentric universe for another intriguing adventure. When I first heard about Everhood 2, I wasn’t sure what to expect. However, it’s quite clear that this is the follow-up we never knew we needed. Building on the solid groundwork laid by its predecessor, Everhood 2 expands and refines the unique elements we loved about the first game, even weaving in more than we could have anticipated. Much like the original, it proudly showcases its inspirations from Undertale, which is certainly not a downside! Having reviewed Everhood on the Nintendo console back in 2021, I was more than ready to dive into this new experience.
From the start, it’s important to note that the choices you make in Everhood 2 directly impact your adventure’s outcome. Your first decision is surprisingly simple: What do you cherish most in games? Your choices are Story, Battle and Challenges, Unique Experiences, or Funny Stuff. Next, you choose how you want your challenges. You’ll pick from Story Mode, Easy, Medium, or Hard, which will set your game’s difficulty.
The questions continue: Do you engage in conversation with every character in a room? With choices of Yes, No, and I Don’t Know, the questionnaire starts getting quite introspective. While it might seem tedious at first, these questions reveal how personal the game becomes, with the length of the questionnaire depending on your willingness to answer. Ultimately, these responses determine the color of your soul.
Once you’re in the game, controlling your character is straightforward whether you prefer the left analog stick or the D-Pad. Interacting with elements and characters is done via the A button. To view your inventory, simply press X. To switch characters on the fly, use the L and R buttons. Everhood 2, much like its predecessor, is packed with battles and if you’re new to the series, the combat might catch you off guard initially.
Combat in Everhood 2 is a musical affair. Staying attuned to each song is crucial to dodging assaults while waiting for the right moment to strike. With the left analog stick or D-Pad, you’ll juggle between lanes, using the B button or pressing up to jump. Blocking attacks with ZR or A and launching your own with ZL or Y becomes second nature after a few battles.
This sequel introduces a fresh feature: by holding ZR or A, you can absorb consecutive notes, building your energy for stronger attacks. But beware—a misstep and you’ll lose all that stored energy. Mixing energy colors won’t work, so focus on soaking up matching notes to maximize your attack strength. Remember, barrier notes can thwart your attacks.
New encounters in Everhood 2 nod to classics like Earthbound, as you’ll battle roaming overworld foes. Victory nets you experience points, and treasures offer bonus points. Leveling up enhances your stats, boosting health and attack power—important advantages! Plus, hitting new levels unlocks cosmetic options for personalizing your character.
Our return to this peculiar universe in Everhood 2 wasn’t anticipated, yet it truly is the delightful sequel we didn’t realize we were waiting for. The game takes the original’s elements, elevates them, and proudly flaunts its Undertale influences. Decisions you make will guide your journey’s path.
You’re a unique soul with the ability to traverse different realities, and with Raven’s help, you’ll unlock your full potential. Your first mission? Defeat the dragon to acquire your Soul Weapon. Gathering Power Gems lets you upgrade your abilities. Spend them wisely to enhance your attacks, though subsequent upgrades require more investment.
Poised to launch on Nintendo Switch for $20.00, Everhood 2 promises a thrilling ride for fans old and new.
The weird and wonderful sequel we didn’t know we needed is finally here. This review of Everhood 2 is based on a Nintendo Switch copy provided by Foreign Gnomes.