Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

Moero! Nekketsu Rhythm Damashii Osu! Tatakae! Ouendan 2 builds directly on the foundation laid by its predecessor, delivering an intuitive and addictive rhythm-action experience. Players use the DS stylus to tap, slide, and spin on-screen markers in time with J-Pop and rock tracks. The core mechanics remain as tight and responsive as ever, ensuring that mastering each beat feels immensely satisfying.

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This sequel introduces nineteen new songs and an equal number of scenarios, each presenting a fresh challenge for aspiring cheerleaders. Whether coaxing a struggling student to ace an exam or rallying a flailing rock band back onto the stage, each stage demands pinpoint timing and rhythmic precision. The margin for error is slim, but the game’s generous timing window on easier difficulties eases newcomers into the groove.

Notably, Ouendan 2 incorporates several quality-of-life improvements first seen in Elite Beat Agents, such as the ability to skip lengthy introductions or cutscenes, and instant unlocks for fan-favorite songs once specific goals are met. The option to save a replay for each track further enriches the experience, giving players the opportunity to revisit perfect runs and refine their technique.

Graphics

The visual style of Ouendan 2 stays true to its quirky, manga-inspired roots. Character designs pop against the clean, minimalist backgrounds, allowing players to focus on the rhythmic prompts without distraction. Each cheer squad member is animated with exuberant flair, their dynamic poses and expressive reactions injecting life into every scenario.

Stage backgrounds are vibrant yet uncluttered, with just enough detail to set the scene — whether it’s a bustling school hallway or a dimly lit concert venue. The game’s color palette contrasts the Evening City Ouendan’s signature black uniforms with the bright blue of the new Morning City squad, making team swaps visually striking and thematically distinct.

Hit markers and combo lines are crisply rendered and carry a satisfying visual pop when activated in time. Animations are smooth even in intense, high-speed sections, ensuring that players never lose sight of the next beat. In handheld mode, the graphics maintain their clarity, making Ouendan 2 both a visually appealing and highly functional rhythm title.

Story

Ouendan 2 continues the series’ charming tradition of turning mundane life crises into over-the-top, cheer-powered adventures. Each of the nineteen missions unfolds like a short manga chapter — from convincing a fledgling band’s frontman to face his stage fright, to reuniting feuding siblings at a family restaurant. The narrative framing offers a delightful blend of humor, heart, and absurdity.

The introduction of the Morning City Ouendan adds a fresh narrative layer, as players witness two squads with contrasting styles and personalities rally citizens around the clock. The interplay between the blue-uniformed newcomers and the black-clad veterans deepens the series’ lore, offering subtle nods to teamwork and rivalry that long-time fans will appreciate.

While the story segments are brief, they serve their purpose admirably, providing context for each song and motivating players to hit every beat with passion. Cheered-on characters erupt into celebratory cutscenes when missions succeed, reinforcing the uplifting message that, with the right support, any problem can be overcome.

Overall Experience

Moero! Nekketsu Rhythm Damashii Osu! Tatakae! Ouendan 2 is a triumph of rhythm-game design, blending fast-paced gameplay with a generous helping of Japanese pop culture flair. The twenty new tracks and scenarios expand the series’ already formidable replay value, while refined features like skip options and replay saves cater to both newcomers and series veterans alike.

The dual squads of Morning City and Evening City Ouendan introduce an appealing visual and narrative contrast, ensuring that each playthrough feels fresh. Combined with an eclectic soundtrack that ranges from high-energy rock anthems to catchy pop tunes, the game keeps feet tapping from start to finish.

In short, Ouendan 2 is a must-own for anyone with a Nintendo DS and a passion for rhythm challenges. Its blend of tight controls, vibrant presentation, and heartfelt storytelling makes it one of the system’s standout titles. Whether you’re looking to smash high-score records or simply enjoy a quirky, uplifting adventure, this game delivers an experience that’s impossibly hard to put down.

Retro Replay Score

7.9/10