Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

MediEvil II builds upon the solid foundation of its predecessor by delivering a fast-paced blend of melee and ranged combat. Sir Daniel Fortesque once again arms himself with an arsenal suited to the 19th-century setting—pistols, shotguns, and even a portable gatling gun replace the traditional bow and arrow. This shift not only refreshes combat encounters but also encourages players to switch tactics on the fly, choosing the right weapon for hordes of undead or isolated powerful foes.

(HEY YOU!! We hope you enjoy! We try not to run ads. So basically, this is a very expensive hobby running this site. Please consider joining us for updates, forums, and more. Network w/ us to make some cash or friends while retro gaming, and you can win some free retro games for posting. Okay, carry on 👍)

One of the sequel’s standout additions is the ability to equip two weapons simultaneously and swap between them instantly during battle. This dynamic system keeps engagements fluid and strategic, as players decide whether to unleash a volley of shotgun blasts or conserve ammo with quick pistol shots. Combined with the improved AI of returning skeletons and novel Victorian-era monstrosities—such as reanimated penny-farthing cyclists—the combat feels both familiar and invigorated.

Beyond brawling, MediEvil II enriches its action-adventure core with inventive puzzle mechanics. Daniel’s detachable skull lets you navigate tight corridors, activate distant switches, and uncover hidden collectibles that his full body cannot reach. This clever design choice introduces moments of vulnerability—being a disembodied head makes you an easy target—and balances risk with reward. The inclusion of a fully rotatable camera enhances exploration, allowing precise platforming and puzzle solving in London’s twisted exhibits.

Graphics

Visually, MediEvil II embraces a stylized gothic aesthetic that brings Victorian London’s eerie charm to life. The game’s environments—from the dusty halls of the Kensington museum to fog-laden graveyards and opulent manor houses—are rich in detail and atmosphere. Every level feels handcrafted, with creepy set pieces like skeletal chandeliers and haunted dioramas reinforcing the game’s spooky yet whimsical tone.

Sir Daniel himself remains a highlight, his skeletal frame animated with surprisingly expressive gestures and comical facial movements even when detached. Enemies showcase a mix of Victorian flair and undead horror: top-hatted zombies, steam-powered automatons, and grotesque reanimations all sport distinctive textures and fluid animations. Special effects, such as swirling ghostly energies and the fiery burst of Dan’s weapons, pop against darker backdrops, adding visual excitement to each encounter.

Though originally released on hardware with modest capabilities, MediEvil II’s art direction helps it stand the test of time. The deliberate use of bold silhouettes and contrasting color palettes ensures readability during hectic battles, while subtle ambient lighting and particle effects lift the entire presentation. Whether you’re exploring shadowed corridors or confronting a boss beneath flickering gas lamps, the game’s visuals consistently support its narrative and gameplay ambitions.

Story

MediEvil II picks up five centuries after Sir Daniel Fortesque’s heroic sacrifice, only to find him reanimated in a strange new era. When Dan awakens in a Victorian museum, he learns from the ghostly Winston that the evil Lord Palethorn has unearthed Zarok’s spell book. With the power to reanimate the dead, Palethorn’s ambition threatens to engulf London in chaos unless Dan can recover the scattered pages and thwart his plans.

The narrative unfolds through charming cutscenes and in-game dialogue that balance humor with a touch of melancholy. Winston’s nervous energy contrasts nicely with Dan’s begrudging heroism, and their interactions provide both context for the levels and a lighthearted counterpoint to the undead horrors. Secondary characters—ranging from cheeky street urchins to reluctant scientists—flesh out the world and offer side-quests that reward exploration.

Level objectives tie directly into the story, reinforcing the stakes as you race from opulent ballrooms to plague-ridden alleyways in search of the missing book pages. Boss encounters, like duels with animated generals or giant clockwork constructs, feel narratively justified and punctuate the sense of progression. By the time the final confrontation with Palethorn arrives, players are fully invested in Dan’s quest and eager to see the fate of London decided.

Overall Experience

MediEvil II delivers a cohesive action-adventure package that successfully evolves its predecessor’s strengths while introducing fresh mechanics and a captivating setting. The seamless integration of dual‐weapon combat, head-detachment puzzles, and a rotatable camera results in gameplay that feels both familiar to returning fans and inviting to newcomers. Its linear progression keeps the pace brisk, guiding players through a variety of thematic stages without sacrificing depth.

Performance-wise, the title remains smooth and responsive, ensuring that combat and platforming challenges are determined by skill rather than technical hiccups. Audio design—complete with a haunting orchestral score and suitably cartoony sound effects—further immerses players in the game’s blend of macabre and mirth. Quality-of-life improvements, such as clearer map markers and more generous checkpointing, enhance accessibility without diluting the core challenge.

For those seeking a darkly humorous romp through an undead-infested Victorian London, MediEvil II stands as a memorable and worthwhile adventure. Its unique premise, creative level design, and polished combat systems make it a standout on the platform it debuted on—and thanks to modern ports, it’s more accessible than ever. Whether you’re a long-time fan of Sir Daniel Fortesque or simply in search of an offbeat action-adventure, MediEvil II offers a thoroughly engaging journey from start to finish.

Retro Replay Score

7.4/10