James Pond 2

James Pond 2: Codename: RoboCod

Industry	Video games
Founded	1991
Products	Platform video game

James Pond 2: Codename: RoboCod, known as Super James Pond on the Super NES and Game Boy in North America, and as Super James Pond 2 in Europe, is a platform game from 1991 and the second title in the James Pond franchise. Created by the original British development teams, its soundtrack by Richard Joseph is notable for a marimba-driven adaptation of the RoboCop movie theme.

Initially launched in 1991 on Amiga, Atari ST, and Sega Genesis through three different publishers, the game was later adapted for various platforms including Amiga AGA, Amiga CD32, Game Gear, Commodore 64, Master System, PC, Acorn Archimedes, Game Boy, and SNES. Subsequently, it was reimagined as a budget release on systems such as Game Boy Advance, Nintendo DS, PlayStation, and PlayStation 2. Digital versions became available on the PlayStation Portable and PlayStation 3 via PlayStation Network, as well as on the Nintendo Switch.

Gameplay

The adventure begins with James Pond positioned outside the gates of Santa's toy factory, where numerous doors lead to a total of 50 themed stages. The adversaries, known as Meanies, appear in multiple forms and must be defeated by jumping on them, since no weapons are provided. After completing two doors, players encounter a powerful guardian boss.

James Pond’s suit enables him to stretch vertically to cling to ceilings or platforms, granting access to secret areas and allowing for surprise attacks. Collecting various items increases points, while power-ups offer additional lives or wings that allow flight. Occasionally, James Pond pilots vehicles such as cars, aircraft, or even flying bathtubs.

Plot

After the collapse of Acme Oil Company, James Pond’s nemesis Dr. Maybe flees to the North Pole and takes control of Santa's workshop. Dr. Maybe captures Santa’s helpers—mostly penguins in most versions, though sometimes elves—and converts many into his minions. James Pond’s mission is to penetrate Santa’s grotto to liberate the hostages, retrieve stolen toys, and defeat Dr. Maybe. For this dangerous assignment, he is equipped with a robotic suit and given the codename "RoboCod," which grants enhanced strength, agility, and an extraordinary ability to stretch his torso.

Product placement

The original UK edition incorporated penguins as part of an in-game promotional tie-in with McVitie's' Penguin Biscuits. The 1991 EA release in both the U.S. and Europe featured a penguin on its Christmas-themed cover art created by Marc Ericksen. Following the game's launch, Penguin biscuits reportedly surpassed rival brand KitKat in sales for the first time.

Game Boy Advance, Nintendo DS, Nintendo Switch, and PlayStation versions

James Pond: Codename Robocod was launched on the Game Boy Advance and PlayStation in 2003, followed by releases on the Nintendo DS in 2005, PlayStation 2 in 2006, availability via the PlayStation Network in 2009, and finally on the Nintendo Switch in 2019. These editions feature enhanced graphics and redesigned levels that maintain original themes but present new layouts. The McVitie's branding was removed; instead of rescuing penguins, RoboCod saves elves. Additionally, hidden levels were excluded from these versions. These are considered remakes rather than direct ports of the original game.

Reception

The Amiga edition received a score of 934 out of 1000 from the UK publication ACE, which praised it as "refined, enjoyable and (...) entertaining" and deemed it "utterly outstanding." Meanwhile, Electronic Gaming Monthly assigned the SNES version a 5 out of 10, acknowledging the unique height-altering mechanic but considering it somewhat limited, and suggesting that enthusiasts might favor The Aquatic Games instead. The Amiga CD32 iteration earned a 5.5 out of 10 from the same magazine; while the soundtrack was lauded, the vibrant visuals were criticized for causing visual discomfort, and the gameplay was described as mildly entertaining but lacking excitement. Apart from a heavily pixelated full-motion video introduction, the CD32 release mirrored the less capable Sega Genesis version.

The Genesis edition was awarded 92% by Mega Action, which characterized it as a superior and more extensive follow-up incorporating all aspects of its predecessor along with additional features. For the SNES version, Power Unlimited gave a rating of 75%, commending its James Bond parody elements but pointing out limited implementation, ultimately labeling it a standard yet well-crafted musical platformer.

In their Top Mega Drive Games of All Time list, Mega magazine placed this title at number 20.