Joe Blade 2

Joe Blade 2

Company type	Video game
Industry	Video games
Founded	1988
Products	Joe Blade 2

Joe Blade 2 represents the follow-up installment in the Joe Blade franchise.

Gameplay

In contrast to its predecessor, Joe Blade 2 places the protagonist in the role of a vigilante tasked with purging urban areas of criminals while saving elderly citizens. Unlike the original title, Blade is unarmed and neutralizes foes by leaping on them. Rescuing civilians involves completing timed puzzle challenges centered on symbol sequences, with four distinct puzzles to solve within 60 seconds each. This abstract approach marked a departure from the gritty atmosphere of the first game and resulted in a significantly easier experience, often finished in less than an hour.

The Spectrum edition featured a unique loading system called Loada-Game, designed by Andy Severn, which included an interactive Pac-Man mini-game reminiscent of Invade-a-Load loaders.

Reception

Paul Rixon from New Atari User endorsed the title, particularly recommending it to those who enjoyed the original, despite noting the preview version lacked detailed instructions.

Crash magazine commended its engaging gameplay, highlighting that it garnered considerable support for brief play sessions.

The Atari ST port earned favorable feedback from Computer and Video Games, who urged enthusiasts of the initial release to purchase it without hesitation.

On the other hand, Richard Henderson of Computer Gamesweek criticized the game for sluggish sprite animations and repetitive screen designs, although he acknowledged the quality of its graphics.

Meanwhile, Sinclair User found it visually attractive but felt it lacked dynamic action, comparing the experience more to observing a ballet than participating in combat.

Reviews

• Aktueller Software Markt (German)
• Stak (Spanish)