Tuesday, February 24, 2026

Platform Game Review: DuckTales 2


DuckTales 2 was the sequel to the phenomenal DuckTales by Capcom. Because it was released late in the lifespan of the Nintendo Entertainment System, it didn't sell as well as the first game and is lesser known as a result. This is a shame because DuckTales adds in features that were not in the original.

The story is standard Disney duck universe fare. Huey finds a piece of a treasure map drawn by Scrooge's father Fergus McDuck. 'The pieces of the map are scattered all around the world, so Scrooge goes to each spot to find them. Scrooge's archenemy Flint Glomgold is searching for the treasure as well.

The memorable sound effects returned, and the music was of the same high quality as well. There's no moon level song with soaring motifs, but the music that is here certainly meets the standard of the other songs in the previous DuckTales game. There is also a map now for level selection, and the map screen music is quite enjoyable all on its own.

The levels are just as well laid out as in the previous game. Scrooge still has his usual skills. He can jump normally or jump higher with his cane. His cane can also allow him to jump on some surfaces that would normally hurt him. Scrooge can use his cane to whack items like treasure chests, but now he can swing while jumping. 

DuckTales 2 also adds in a new use for his trusty cane. It can be used to hook onto objects that Scrooge can hang on or to pull levers and objects. This gives the game more creative ways to conceal areas, put ledges out of reach of normal jumps, and hide treasure. The new hook abilities makes them more challenging, but not overly so. The hanging hook parts are a lot like Darkwing Duck, and they work as well in this game as they did in that one.

DuckTales 2 is a lesser-known sequel that suffered its fate due to its late release in the lifespan of the original Nintendo Entertainment System. It certainly didn't deserve to be underplayed. It's new jump swing and hoop grab and hanging abilities with Scrooge's cane adds a lot to the formula. It's level design, music, and sound effects are just as engaging as the first game. If you enjoyed Capcom's DuckTales, you owe it to yourself to try DuckTales 2.

Final Verdict: 
4½ out of 5

No comments: