Chuck Rock II: Son of Chuck

The Good
A lot of sequels just turn out to be the same game with slightly different graphics. But this features a new character with a whole new set of moves, and there are a lot of new ideas and a few sub-games thrown in for good measure. Chuck Rock has, it seems, built the world's first car factory. However, he is kidnapped by a a rival - Brick Jaggar - who is determined to put the belly-wielding small businessman out of action. So it is up to Chuck Jnr, the son of Chuck and his beloved (who were wedded since the last game) to find and rescue his Dad. Between him and victory are several levels of platforming action. As with the first game, the graphics look gorgeous and the creatures are inventive and well-animated. There are a lot of great tunes and sound effects, and some truly daunting bosses including a nest bird - who turns from an angry feathery brat into a fiery bird-demon - and a titanic sea monster. Chuck Jnr's club can be used to hit enemies, ad he can even stand on it to avoid spiked monsters. Of course, some of the beasts you encounter in this game can help you on your way. The animation has loads of hilarious touches, such as the tortoise hopping across the lava and the dog 'christening' the Chuck statue. The animation involving Chuck Jnr having a tantrum when he runs out of energy is almost worth losing a life just to see.

The Bad
It's a pity there was never a Chuck Rock 3.

The Bottom Line
An all-action 2D scrolling platform game in which you, as Chuck Jnr, must make your way through several levels. Avoid or make use of the varied creatures, watch out for hazards ranging from lava pools to avalanches, and rescue Chuck senior from the money-mad Brick.