Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

Avernum 2 retains the classic, party-based turn-based combat that fans of old-school CRPGs appreciate, while introducing a host of modern refinements. You assemble a party of up to six adventurers, choosing from revamped classes—such as the nimble Rogue or the mighty Vanguard—and dozens of new spells and abilities. Tactical positioning, spell synergies, and careful resource management all play a vital role in overcoming the varied threats of the underground world.

The overhaul to the Nethergate engine brings more intuitive controls and a streamlined interface. Gone are the clunky text-in prompts of Exile 2: Crystal Souls—now you ask preset questions in conversations, leading to more natural dialogues akin to Baldur’s Gate. This change not only speeds up interaction with NPCs but also cuts down on player frustration when seeking specific information about quests or lore.

Quest design in Avernum 2 strikes a satisfying balance between main-story objectives and side expeditions. While your primary goal is to broker peace between the Exiles and the ancient Vahnatai to fend off the Imperial invasion, dozens of optional quests invite exploration of hidden caverns, negotiations with subterranean factions, and hunting down long-lost artifacts. The challenge curve remains firm—expect to rest, heal, and resupply frequently—but the sense of accomplishment after a hard-won battle or diplomatic breakthrough is deeply rewarding.

Graphics

Building on the Nethergate engine, Avernum 2 presents a crisp 2D tile set that feels both nostalgic and refreshed. Walls, floors, and environmental details boast richer palettes and smoother transitions between terrain types, making it easier to distinguish lava flows from rocky ledges or fungal growths. Character and monster sprites have been redrawn with more expressive animations, lending life to every spell cast and sword swing.

While the game doesn’t feature modern 3D graphics, its hand-painted style holds a timeless charm. Spell effects—lightning arcs, fireballs, healing auras—are more colorful and distinct than in earlier Exile titles. Ambient lighting effects, such as flickering torchlight or the glow of bioluminescent fungi, add atmospheric depth to Avernum’s winding caverns.

The user interface also benefits from graphical polish. Inventory screens, character sheets, and dialogue boxes are more readable, with clearer icons and tooltips. Quick-access hotkeys for spells and items allow for snappier turn-based decision-making, ensuring that the visuals not only look good but also enhance gameplay clarity.

Story

The central narrative of Avernum 2 revolves around the Exiles—humans cast out from the surface—and their uneasy alliance with the enigmatic Vahnatai, an ancient subterranean race. As your party delves deeper into the labyrinthine underworld, you negotiate peace with the Vahnatai in hopes of gaining an edge against the ever-encroaching Empire forces. The political intrigue is surprisingly weighty for a game of this era, with multiple factions vying for power and shifting loyalties that can change the course of your campaign.

Dialogue receives a major boost from the new preset-question system. Rather than guessing the correct keyword, you choose from clear, context-driven options—“Tell me about Vahnatai history,” “What threats lie ahead?”—making conversations feel purposeful and reminiscent of later BioWare classics. NPCs respond with depth, revealing backstory, side-quests, and moral dilemmas that enrich the world beyond simple fetch-quests.

Characterization shines through both your party members and the NPCs you meet. From a disgruntled Vahnatai warrior questioning his people’s isolationist stance to an Exile noble haunted by a dark secret, the cast feels grounded. The writing balances humor—wry commentary on cave life—with moments of genuine poignancy, especially when the fate of entire races hangs in the balance.

Overall Experience

Avernum 2 delivers a deeply rewarding old-school RPG experience, updated just enough to feel accessible to modern players. Its challenging combat, sprawling dungeons, and rich narrative arch make for dozens of hours of engrossing gameplay. While the visuals and interface may not compete with today’s high-budget titles, they serve the game’s design beautifully and never impede immersion.

Replayability is a strong suit: with multiple character classes, branching dialogue choices, and faction allegiances to manage, no two playthroughs feel identical. The robust community support and mod-friendly data files mean you can even customize encounters or add new quests to extend your time in the caverns indefinitely.

For fans of classic turn-based RPGs who relish strategic combat and deep world-building, Avernum 2 is an outstanding choice. Its blend of refined mechanics, engaging storytelling, and a rich underground setting offers a compelling journey—one well worth the descent into darkness.

Retro Replay Score

7/10