Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

X-Men 2: Clone Wars retains the classic side-scrolling action that fans of the original Sega Genesis title will immediately recognize. Each level challenges players to navigate intricate platforms, avoid environmental hazards, and dispatch waves of Phalanx drones with a combination of melee attacks and mutant powers. Whether you’re slashing through enemies as Wolverine or teleporting past obstacles as Nightcrawler, the core gameplay loop strikes a satisfying balance between exploration and combat.

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One of the standout features is the expanded roster of selectable characters. Beyond the original lineup, you can now pilot Beast, Gambit, Psylocke, Cyclops, and even the enigmatic Magneto. Each mutant feels distinct: Gambit’s charged-cards cover long-range assaults, Psylocke’s psychic blade combos flow swiftly, and Magneto’s magnetic control opens up unique traversal mechanics. This variety not only keeps the action fresh but encourages multiple playthroughs to experience every power set.

Boss encounters are a major highlight, pitting you against scale-tipping adversaries that require pattern recognition and smart use of mutant abilities. The difficulty curve remains fair, ramping up in the later stages without resorting to unfair cheap hits. Checkpoints are generously placed, though some levels demand precise timing to avoid taking damage, ensuring that player skill stays at the forefront of the experience.

Graphics

On the Genesis hardware, X-Men 2: Clone Wars pushes the system’s limits with large, detailed character sprites and richly colored backgrounds. The mutants themselves are instantly recognizable, with well-executed spritework capturing Wolverine’s ferocity or Psylocke’s sleek agility. Animations are generally smooth, although a handful of more elaborate power attacks can exhibit slight frame drops under heavy effects.

Environmental variety keeps the visuals engaging—from rusted industrial complexes and dark underground labs to the neon glow of advanced Phalanx strongholds. Each setting feels distinct, and subtle background animations, such as flickering lights or drifting machinery, breathe life into what might otherwise be static scenery. The game’s color palette is bold and vibrant, giving each stage a unique visual identity.

Special effects, especially during mutant power activations, stand out for a 16-bit title. Psylocke’s psychic blade slashes leave trailing after-images, and Magneto’s force fields shimmer realistically. While some particle effects can momentarily tax the hardware, they enhance the overall spectacle, making signature moves feel impactful and visually rewarding.

Story

The narrative thrust of X-Men 2: Clone Wars centers on an ominous alien force known as the Phalanx, whose goal is to assimilate Earth under a collective hive mind. The threat feels immediate, as familiar landmarks fall one by one to the encroaching menace. It’s a straightforward but effective premise that drives you from one mission to the next.

Story beats are delivered through brief cutscenes between levels, showcasing dramatic confrontations or urgent briefings by Professor X. While these sequences are minimalistic, they provide enough context to motivate your mission. The inclusion of Magneto as a playable character adds an intriguing layer, as you temporarily team up with the former villain despite his unpredictable nature.

Dialogue is concise, often focusing on urgent exclamations like “We have to stop the Phalanx!” or “These clones won’t stand a chance.” This brevity keeps the pace brisk, ensuring that you’re out in the field dishing out mutant justice rather than lingering on exposition. Fans of the X-Men lore will appreciate nods to classic comic storylines, even if deeper character development is left to the imagination.

Overall Experience

X-Men 2: Clone Wars offers a robust package for action-platformer enthusiasts and comic book fans alike. The expanded character roster and distinctive powersets ensure that no two playthroughs feel identical. Coupled with challenging boss battles and varied level design, the gameplay remains engaging from start to finish.

Graphics and sound work in harmony to deliver a memorable retro experience. The visuals outperform many contemporaries on the Genesis, and the soundtrack—featuring driving, adrenaline-pumping tunes—keeps you immersed in the fight against the Phalanx. Sound effects are punchy, with each mutant’s special move accompanied by satisfying audio feedback.

While the story serves primarily as a backdrop for the action, its simplicity is a strength, preventing any lull in momentum. X-Men 2: Clone Wars excels in the fundamentals, offering tight controls, rewarding combat, and replay value that will appeal to newcomers and returning players alike. If you own a Sega Genesis or a retro collection that includes this title, it’s well worth adding to your lineup for a classic superhero side-scroller that still packs a punch.

Retro Replay Score

7.8/10