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Super Bomberman R 2

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Super Bomberman R 2
Item: Super Bomberman R 2
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2023

GenresAdventure, Action, Puzzle and Logic, RPG, Top-Down Perspective, Strategy, Single Player, Multiplayer

AvailableSep 13, 2023

PlatformPlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch

DeveloperKonami

Overview

A sequel to Super Bomberman R, featuring an expanded story mode, and a new "Castle" battle mode which has one group teaming up to build castle defenses while the other attempts to breach the castle and take the treasure.

Elsewhere

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Super Bomberman R 2 has a few positive elements, like engaging gameplay and charming cinematics, but the overall story mode is deemed lackluster and repetitive by most critics. They describe it as uninspired, often feeling more like a tutorial for multiplayer than a compelling experience, with some even calling it a "babysitting simulator." Ultimately, the narrative fails to meet franchise expectations and is seen as merely functional.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

75%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

21%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The opinions regarding the story of Super Bomberman R 2 reveal a few positive aspects that some critics appreciate. For instance, Hey Poor Player notes that the story is engaging enough to support the gameplay without overshadowing it, indicating that it serves its purpose within the game. Similarly, Vandal highlights the introduction of puzzle stages and boss battles, suggesting a more interesting single-player experience compared to previous titles. Critics like Nintenderos commend the well-crafted cinematics and comedic elements that introduce the personalities of the Bomberman characters, adding a layer of charm to the overall narrative. However, the majority of critics express significant dissatisfaction with the story mode, which they describe as lackluster and uninspired. GamingBolt bluntly states that the story is "mind numbingly trite and awful," while God is a Geek describes it as dull and tedious. Many reviewers, including Game Informer and IGN, criticize the repetitive nature of the story, likening it to a tutorial for multiplayer rather than a compelling standalone experience. Furthermore, Hardcore Gamer points out that the introduction of the Ellons turns the game into a "babysitting simulator," which detracts from the overall enjoyment of the narrative. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Super Bomberman R 2 has some redeeming qualities in its story mode, it largely fails to deliver a compelling narrative experience. The criticisms of repetitiveness, lack of challenge, and dull storytelling dominate the reviews, with many critics feeling that the story is merely functional rather than engaging. The opinions of Cubed3 and Pocket Tactics echo this sentiment, as they describe the story as thin and unsatisfying. Ultimately, the critics agree that the story mode does not meet the expectations set by the franchise and serves primarily as a vehicle for gameplay rather than a captivating narrative.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Super Bomberman R 2 earns a largely positive reception for its mix of classic gameplay and new features, like the chaotic Grand Prix and creative Castle mode. Critics praise its multiplayer excitement and nostalgic mechanics, making it fun for both new players and veterans. However, issues like tedious collection mechanics, collision detection, and underwhelming campaign elements hold it back from true greatness. While the game succeeds in capturing the franchise spirit and offers hours of fun, it still has room for improvement.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

74%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

22%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Super Bomberman R 2 has garnered a largely positive reception among critics, who appreciate its blend of classic elements with new features. Reviewers like GameSpew and IGN highlight the variety of match types, including Standard battle, Battle 64, and the team-based Grand Prix, which injects a sense of chaos and fun into the experience. The introduction of the Castle mode, praised by critics such as Digitally Downloaded and NintendoWorldReport, adds depth with asymmetric battles and a level editor, allowing for creative customization. Many reviewers, including Hardcore Gamer and Push Square, note that the core gameplay remains true to the beloved Bomberman mechanics, making it enjoyable for both newcomers and long-time fans. Multiplayer modes, especially, are frequently cited as a highlight, with critics like Shacknews and LevelUp emphasizing the addictive nature of the multiplayer experience. However, not all feedback is positive, as several critics point out notable shortcomings in the gameplay. Hardcore Gamer mentions that the game can become tedious due to the collection mechanics that lack meaningful upgrades or new skills, which detracts from the overall excitement. TheSixthAxis raises concerns about dodgy collision detection and difficult controls, suggesting that these issues may hinder the gameplay experience. Additionally, some reviewers, such as Noisy Pixel, express dissatisfaction with certain campaign elements, like the tower defense sections, which they found less enjoyable. The pacing and randomness of world setups, as mentioned by Hey Poor Player, also indicate that while the game has strong points, it is not without its flaws. Overall, the consensus among critics reflects a generally favorable view of Super Bomberman R 2, particularly for its multiplayer offerings and innovative new modes. While there are criticisms regarding gameplay mechanics and certain design choices, the enjoyment derived from classic Bomberman elements and the introduction of fresh features seems to resonate well with players. Critics like Meristation and Vandal acknowledge that while the game meets expectations and offers hours of fun, it falls short of significant innovation. In summary, Super Bomberman R 2 successfully captures the spirit of the franchise while also attempting to evolve, though it may benefit from addressing some of the gameplay issues identified by reviewers.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Super Bomberman R 2 graphics divide critics: some praise its vibrant, cartoonish charm reminiscent of Saturday-morning cartoons, appealing to younger players. However, many others criticize the visuals as basic and uninspired, with performance issues like frame rate drops and blurry textures on the Nintendo Switch. While the game has its colorful aesthetic strengths, it ultimately falls short for those seeking innovation and depth in design, leaving a mixed reception overall.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

86%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

10%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The opinions regarding the graphics and visual design of Super Bomberman R 2 present a mixed bag of sentiments, with some critics highlighting notable strengths. Several reviews commend the game's vibrant and colorful aesthetics, which evoke a playful, cartoonish charm reminiscent of Saturday-morning cartoons. Critics from Hardcore Gamer and Hey Poor Player specifically praise the colorful, comic-book art style, particularly in cutscenes, noting that it retains the charm of its predecessor. Pure Nintendo also adds to this positive sentiment, describing the graphics as "lovely," with colorful sprites and environments that appeal to the eye. This suggests that while the overall graphical fidelity may not be groundbreaking, the game's stylistic choices resonate well with certain audiences, particularly younger players. Conversely, many critics express disappointment with the game's graphics, citing a lack of innovation and artistic direction. God is a Geek points out that the environments and enemy designs are basic and forgettable, while SpazioGames echoes this sentiment by labeling the graphics as uninspired. Multiple reviews, including those from IGN and Multiplayer.it, criticize the in-game environments as basic and repetitive, with IGN specifically noting that character models are bland and lacking detail. Furthermore, technical performance issues, such as frame rate drops and long load times mentioned by Push Square, detract from the overall visual experience, particularly on the Nintendo Switch, where Game Informer highlights blurry textures and pixelated shadows. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates a division in perception regarding the graphics of Super Bomberman R 2. While some reviewers appreciate the colorful and playful aesthetic, many others find the visuals lacking in depth and innovation, leading to a sense of disappointment. Critics like Vandal and Nintendo Life acknowledge the stylish appeal but lament the absence of significant graphical improvements or memorable designs. The game appears to cater to a specific audience, particularly younger players, but fails to impress a broader demographic seeking more substantial visual advancements. This dichotomy suggests that while Super Bomberman R 2 may charm some players with its aesthetic, it ultimately struggles to meet the expectations of those looking for a more polished and innovative visual experience.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Super Bomberman R 2 features nostalgic, upbeat music that resonates well with fans, but the voice acting is widely criticized as poor and over-the-top. While the game includes fanservice elements and enjoyable tracks, the repetitiveness of the music during long sessions detracts from the experience. Overall, the sound design is a mixed bag—nostalgic highs overshadowed by significant lows in voice performance and potential monotony.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

20%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

60%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

20%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The sound design and music of Super Bomberman R 2 have garnered a mix of opinions, with several critics highlighting positive aspects that enhance the overall gaming experience. For instance, Vandal notes that the music is upbeat and nostalgic, featuring iconic tracks from Konami games, which resonates well with fans of the franchise. Similarly, Pure Nintendo describes the music as simple, bouncy, and reminiscent of the '90s, evoking a sense of nostalgia that many players appreciate. Additionally, the game incorporates fanservice elements, as noted by Shacknews, with unlockable music tracks and characters from beloved Konami series like Castlevania and Metal Gear, further enriching the audio experience. However, the criticisms regarding the sound design and voice acting are notable and somewhat pervasive across the reviews. GamingBolt and Game Informer both express dissatisfaction with the voice acting, describing it as poor and over-the-top, which detracts from the overall experience. IGN echoes this sentiment, labeling the voice acting as "confoundingly bad." Furthermore, several critics, including Vandal and LevelUp, point out that while the music is enjoyable, it can become repetitive and irritating during extended play sessions, suggesting a lack of variety that could impact long-term engagement with the game. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates a divided reception regarding the sound design and music of Super Bomberman R 2. While the nostalgic and upbeat music is generally appreciated, with some critics like Vandal and Shacknews praising its connection to Konami's legacy, the voice acting consistently receives negative feedback, with multiple reviewers finding it a detriment to the game's charm. Additionally, the repetitiveness of the music during lengthy gameplay sessions is a common concern, as highlighted by LevelUp and Vooks. This blend of positive and negative opinions suggests that while the game has strong musical elements, the execution of voice acting and the potential for monotony in the soundtrack may hinder its overall impact.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Super Bomberman R 2’s voice acting divides critics sharply. Some praise its quirky charm and alignment with the game's whimsical style, while others slam it as "confoundingly bad" and overly annoying. The dual English and Japanese options offer accessibility, but overall, opinions vary widely, suggesting that enjoyment hinges on personal taste.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

44%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

56%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in Super Bomberman R 2 has garnered a mix of opinions, with some critics highlighting its unique charm. For instance, Hey Poor Player describes the voice acting as possessing a "cheesy charm," which contributes positively to the game's overall appeal, suggesting that it aligns well with the lighthearted and whimsical nature of the Bomberman franchise. Additionally, Shacknews notes that the kooky voice acting enhances the wacky tone of the game, indicating that it can be entertaining and fitting within the context of the gameplay. Furthermore, Nintenderos points out the availability of both English and Japanese voice acting options, which adds a layer of accessibility and choice for players, potentially broadening the game's appeal. Conversely, a significant number of critics express dissatisfaction with the voice acting, highlighting various shortcomings. GamingBolt criticizes the voice acting as "worse" and mentions that the writing does not enhance the experience. Similarly, Impulsegamer articulates a dislike for the tone and style of the voice acting, suggesting that it may not resonate well with all players. Noisy Pixel raises concerns about the volume and perceived annoyance of the voice acting in cutscenes, while Game Informer finds it "over-the-top" and quickly tiresome. IGN goes further, calling the voice acting "confoundingly bad," which underscores a broader sentiment of frustration among several reviewers. Overall, the consensus among critics regarding the voice acting in Super Bomberman R 2 is decidedly mixed. While some, like Hey Poor Player and Shacknews, appreciate the quirky charm that aligns with the game's fun aesthetic, others, including GamingBolt and IGN, find it lacking in quality and coherence. This division suggests that the voice acting may appeal to a niche audience that enjoys its eccentricity, while alienating those who prefer more polished performances. The contrasting opinions highlight the subjective nature of voice acting in video games, indicating that player enjoyment may hinge on individual taste and expectations.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Super Bomberman R 2's technical performance varies widely. On PS5, it's mostly smooth but criticized for online lag and underutilized graphics. The Nintendo Switch version struggles with long loading times, server issues, and poor optimization, leaving critics divided. Overall, while there are highs, the lows particularly on Switch raise serious concerns about performance.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

21%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

50%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

29%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of Super Bomberman R 2 has garnered a mixed response from critics across different platforms. On the PlayStation 5, several reviewers noted that the game runs relatively well, with The Games Machine stating that it operates smoothly without major glitches, aside from slightly longer loading times. Similarly, SpazioGames reported no issues with lag or disconnections in online play, which is a positive aspect for players looking to engage in multiplayer modes. This suggests that while there are some concerns, the overall experience on PS5 is satisfactory for single-player and local multiplayer modes. However, the PlayStation 5 version also faced criticism, particularly regarding its online multiplayer performance. Meristation highlighted significant lag issues in multiplayer mode, which detracts from the overall experience. Push Square echoed this sentiment by mentioning occasional frame rate drops and long load times, while Vandal expressed disappointment that the game does not fully utilize the PS5's capabilities, indicating that the graphical modes do not present a noticeable difference. These critiques point towards a somewhat inconsistent experience on the PS5, particularly in online settings. On the Nintendo Switch, the technical performance appears to be more problematic overall. Critics like LevelUp and Nintenderos noted persistent long loading times, which is a recurring theme among multiple reviews. Multiplayer.it pointed out difficulties accessing online servers, while Pocket Tactics mentioned stuttering and slowdown, suggesting a less stable experience. Pure Nintendo also criticized the poor design optimization, indicating that the game struggles to perform well on the Switch. Despite some reviewers, like Vooks, stating that the Switch version performs "fine," the consensus leans towards acknowledging significant technical issues across the board. Overall, both platforms exhibit a mix of strengths and weaknesses, but the Nintendo Switch version seems to be more plagued by performance concerns, leaving critics divided on the game's technical execution.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Super Bomberman R 2 shines with its rich multiplayer options and customization features, earning praise for its replay value. Critics highlight cross-platform play and diverse match types as major draws, bolstered by a level editor for user-generated content. However, the single-player campaign is criticized for being shallow and repetitive, with some concerns over online play quality and chaotic modes. Overall, it's a hit for multiplayer fans, but single-player enthusiasts might be left wanting more.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

32%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

68%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of Super Bomberman R 2 is largely positive, with many critics highlighting the game's extensive multiplayer options and customization features. GameSpew and GamingBolt both emphasize the importance of cross-platform play and various match types, which significantly enhance replayability. Hardcore Gamer and Hey Poor Player echo this sentiment, noting the variety of online modes and the ability to unlock characters and customization items as key factors that keep players engaged. Additionally, the presence of a level editor, as mentioned by IGN and Nintenderos, allows for user-generated content, further extending the game's longevity and appeal. However, there are notable criticisms regarding certain aspects of the game's replay value. Many reviewers, such as Game Informer and Meristation, point out that the single-player campaign lacks depth and can become repetitive, which detracts from the overall experience. Impulsegamer raises concerns about potential issues with online play, including reports of matches against bots and limited mode selection. Furthermore, some critics, like TheSixthAxis and Multiplayer.it, mention that the chaotic nature of certain modes and the absence of tutorials could hinder players' enjoyment and limit their willingness to return to the game. In conclusion, while the consensus among critics indicates that Super Bomberman R 2 offers a wealth of replayable content, particularly through its multiplayer modes and customization options, there are significant caveats to consider. Many reviewers appreciate the game's potential for long-term engagement, as noted by Vandal and Digitally Downloaded, but they also caution that the single-player experience and certain gameplay issues may detract from the overall enjoyment. Ultimately, the game seems to cater well to fans of the series who prioritize multiplayer experiences, while those seeking a robust single-player campaign may find it lacking.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

17%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

79%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The overall sentiment regarding Super Bomberman R 2 reveals a generally positive reception, particularly among fans of the series. Many critics, including GameSpew and Nintendo Life, highlight the game's fun multiplayer modes and engaging gameplay, making it a recommended title for Bomberman enthusiasts. The addition of cross-platform play, new game modes, and a level editor are also noted as significant improvements over its predecessor, with The Games Machine describing it as an "evolution" that offers a content-rich experience. Critics like Digitally Downloaded and Vandal emphasize that the game captures the charm of the classic Bomberman while providing hours of enjoyable multiplayer fun, which is a core aspect of its appeal. However, the game is not without its drawbacks. Several reviewers, including God is a Geek and IGN, criticize the single-player campaign for being dull and repetitive, which detracts from the overall experience. Hardcore Gamer and Noisy Pixel point out that while the game introduces new ideas, it lacks sufficient innovation to stand out in a crowded market. Additionally, some critics express concerns over technical issues such as visual clutter and frame rate drops, with Push Square suggesting that the game could benefit from more polish. The general consensus indicates that while the multiplayer experience is enjoyable, the campaign mode fails to deliver an engaging narrative. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Super Bomberman R 2 is a fun and entertaining title, especially for those who enjoy multiplayer gaming. While it successfully builds on the strengths of its predecessors, many reviewers, including Multiplayer.it and Nintenderos, agree that it does not innovate enough to justify its price tag for newcomers. The mixed feedback suggests that while the game is a solid addition for fans, its shortcomings in the single-player experience and technical execution may limit its appeal to a broader audience. Overall, Super Bomberman R 2 is seen as a worthwhile purchase for dedicated fans, but potential buyers should weigh the value of its multiplayer offerings against its less compelling single-player content.

TL;DR

Super Bomberman R 2 is a hit among series fans, praised for its fun multiplayer modes, cross-platform play, and engaging gameplay. Critics highlight it as an evolution of the franchise, but the single-player campaign is criticized for being dull and repetitive. Technical issues and a lack of innovation raise concerns, making it a solid buy for dedicated fans but potentially underwhelming for newcomers.

MONSTER

Reviews

47 reviews found

100

Cubed3

Nintendo Switch

Sep 15, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Super Bomberman R 2 is a fitting celebration of four decades of Bomberman. It offers fast and nippy multiplayer gameplay with cute and colorful characters. However, it could have pushed further to stand out alongside other recent entries.

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Digitally Downloaded

Nintendo Switch

Sep 20, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review concludes that Super Bomberman R 2 is a genuine return to form for the classic franchise, with excellent new modes and well-executed gameplay. It suggests that the game has the potential to find a new generation of fans.

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Nintendo Life

Nintendo Switch

Sep 12, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Super Bomberman R 2 is a triumphant and feature-rich return for the series, with addictive gameplay, an extensive multiplayer suite, and lots of unlockables. It is highly recommended for multiplayer game nights.

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Hey Poor Player

PlayStation 5

Dec 1, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Despite some reliance on previous content and a mediocre single-player experience, Super Bomberman R 2 is a fun game that is enjoyable for both solo and multiplayer play.

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The Games Machine

PlayStation 5

Sep 13, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Super Bomberman R 2 is an evolution of the previous game, offering a content-rich and enjoyable experience for both fans and newcomers

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Vandal

PlayStation 5

Sep 14, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Super Bomberman R 2 is an evolution and improvement over its predecessors, combining the best elements of previous games and offering a fun and engaging multiplayer experience.

XboxEra

Oct 5, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Super Bomberman R 2 is a solid package with fun gameplay, a great level editor, and a decent selection of content. It is highly recommended for party game line-ups.

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Pure Nintendo

Nintendo Switch

Sep 25, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The overall verdict is positive, recommending the game for its multiplayer Battle Mode and enjoyable Story Mode despite some design flaws.

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Impulsegamer

PlayStation 5

Sep 20, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The reviewer finds it difficult to determine if the game is worth the price tag. If you enjoyed previous games and don't have any in your collection, it's a good way to have the classic game with some extra modes. However, if you only plan to play the standard game, the price may not be justified. The reviewer's opinion may be influenced by their dislike of the story mode animations.

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Nintenderos

Nintendo Switch

Sep 12, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Super Bomberman R 2 is a fun game with a lot of content for fans of the series. It may not innovate much, but it is still recommended, especially if you have friends to play with.

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