Review
In terms of style and game structure, DKC 2 is much like it's predecessor, DKC. However, Diddy's Kong Quest improves upon the original by offering even better gameplay, more levels, amazing audio, and greater challenge.
This time around Diddy teams up with fellow chimp, Dixie, to track down Kaptain K. Roole and rescue Donkey Kong. As a team, Diddy and Dixie can perform special moves that are necessary to get certain items &/or bonuses in the game. From a piggy back position, one of the chimps can leap from the other's shoulders to gain extra height in jumping. Diddy and Dixie can also throw one another to take out extra tough baddies.
As in DKC, bonus levels are spread throughout each level. This is where players earn the precious Krem Coins that allow you to enter the secret "Lost World."
There are also regular coins that are spread liberally in each stage which are needed in order to save your game and play other extra games.
The hardest coins to collect, however, are the rare "DK" coins. Just one DK coin is placed in each level, and most are hidden very well. After you've beaten K. Roole for the first time, Cranky Kong will rank you among the great video game stars Mario and Link. If you collect enough DK coins, Cranky will finally admit that you did a good job!
Rare used the same ACM graphics for DKC 2 as they did for the first Donkey Kong Country with the same spectacular results. Only this time, even better special effects were used to create fantastic scenes and levels. From lights that poke out of the trees, to fall leaves that blow about by the wind, this game simply looks as cool as it plays.
And, of course, there is the famous Rare audio. The background tunes and sound effects demonstrate what a good job Rare does with the Super NES when it comes to pumping out great sound. It's definately up to the standard set by the first DKC. All the tunes fit the levels perfectly, some lively and upbeat while others are more atmospheric.
In terms of replay value, DKC 2's extra "Lost World" as well as the reward of a better ending keeps players earning those Krem Coins. There's also a 2 player team and versus modes as was in DKC.
In overall fun, DKC 2 is winner. Not only is it an all around great platformer, but the quality that Rare put into it makes it a real classic. The only thing that keeps this game from recieving a perfect score is that it shares so much with DKC. For players looking for something completely different from the original, you're not going to find it here.
