Magicka 2 is an action-adventure game for PC, developed by Pieces Interactive and published by Paradox Interactive. The title is the sequel to Magicka released in 2011. The game puts the player in the shoes of a party of wizards, whose task is to save a child, prophesized to lead humankind towards a better future. The game emphasizes cooperation, with four players controlling each wizard in the group. Magicka 2 received positive reviews from the critics, who praised the game’s improvements over the previous installment of the series.

Cooperative gameplay mechanics

The gameplay of Magicka 2 differs little from its predecessor. The player controls one of up to four wizards, with the rest controlled by other players who can join the game at any moment. M2 emphasizes cooperation between the players, who can work together, while defeating enemies, or fight against each other, thanks to the friendly fire functionality built into gameplay mechanics.

The player can customize their wizard with a plethora of items: robes, staff and other weapons found in the game world. The player’s gameplay style can also be adjusted with five different elements, which the player can control to make magic. The player can combine these elements to create hybrids, which deal significantly more damage. Magicka 2 favors the player’s experimentation with spells to see which ones work for them the best.

Another new feature added in Magicka 2 are the artifacts. They are unlocked after completing adventures and challenges and can be used to adjust settings like cooldown timer, elemental damage, enemy speed and health recovery, etc. These artifacts can be used to provide additional advantages or challenges to the gameplay, making it more interesting.

Magical story

After the events of the original game, during which the wizards of the Order of Magic saved Midgard, the world is in peril again. The Order’s expansion saw wizards influence over mankind diminishes, bringing in a golden age. However, nothing lasts forever. A prophecy uttered by a famous soothsayer, speaks of a child, who will lead humanity to its full potential. The child’s life is threatened by opposing forces, so the Order sends out its wizards and their guide, Vlad, to protect the savior of mankind.

Reception

Magicka 2 received positive reviews from the critics. Reviewers praised the game for improvements over the first title in the series, fixing bugs and glitches which hindered gameplay. Other features lauded in reviews included the engaging cooperative gameplay mechanics, customization options and the story, which deftly blends serious and humorous elements, creating a unique atmosphere of Magicka.

Key features:

• Sequel to the popular action-adventure title, Magicka
• Experience a new story set in a world based on Nordic mythology
• Cooperate with up to 4 players, but be careful of friendly fire
• Use various types of magic, some of which combine into hybrid forms
• Collect the artifacts to change gameplay mechanics