Super Bomberman R 2

Super Bomberman R 2 is a clear improvement over its predecessor and chock-full of exciting multiplayer action, even if its story mode leaves much to be desired

Super Bomberman R 2’s best parts are the ones carried over from older games in the series. Messing around with friends in local and online matches is still fun, and if that's all you're interested in, it's a fine enough experience. Unfortunately, that’s a small portion of the game, making it hard to recommend.

Super Bomberman R 2 is a step in the right direction for the series with the addition of a lengthy campaign, a level editor, and a whole new game mode. With more puzzles to mix up the repetitive gameplay and a little more polish to iron out the visual clutter, frame rate drops, and long load times, Bomberman could be super yet again.

Super Bomberman R 2 is a triumphant and feature-rich return for the explosive icon. The new Castle mode brings some interesting twists to the classic formula (though the level editor feels like it could use a little more work) while all the chaotic arcade gameplay that's carried this series for 40 years proves to be just as compelling as it's always been. Pair that addictive gameplay with an extensive multiplayer suite and lots of unlockables, and you've got something that's easy to recommend to anyone looking for the next great multiplayer release to break out on game night. It's a little less easy to recommend if you intend on playing entirely solo-the single-player offering is a bit thin here-but the endless replayability of the online component makes it a great pick otherwise.

For a while there, things weren’t looking so great for Bomberman, one of the most underappreciated gaming mascots out there. But it feels like the weird, little guy’s alive and kicking now, with two retail games within a few years of each other and more. Super Bomberman R 2 isn’t the ultimate Bomberman experience, but it’s a cute, wholesome package of old school, multiplayer videogame glee. Which is weird to say about a game with Pyramid Head in it.

Super Bomberman R 2 brings a lot of ideas to the game without actually introducing new opportunities.

All in all, Super Bomberman R 2 offers a well-stocked online mode, but disappoints in single-player. The pleasure of battles royales or other online options fades when you try to advance in the main story. Fortunately, there's something for everyone, and the game is still very enjoyable. The problem is that 2023 is a year in which several great games have been released, making it harder to justify the purchase of Super Bomberman R 2. Nevertheless, if you're a fan of the genre, you'll enjoy it. For others who are new to the title, you may want to hold out for a discount, or have it offered as part of a subscription service.

Does the Bomberman game mechanic work in an open-world environment? I didn’t feel that it did quite frankly. The Castle mode was just pure chaos as well. I think I am getting old as I really only enjoyed the traditional battle modes. Perhaps it was the nostalgia or the fact that I prefer to play as myself and without a team.

As a celebration of the series' 40th anniversary, Super Bomberman R 2 leaves a feeling of emptiness, feeling like a simple upgrade from its predecessor and that there is still room for evolution in the series. However, the game offers a solid multiplayer experience, especially in local mode, showing once again that this is the great strength of the franchise.

Super Bomberman R2 is an exploding good time, especially if you want to enjoy the multiplayer with friends locally or online. As someone who has enjoyed the series for a while, it’s not my favourite entry in the series, but it still gets so much right. The gameplay is as simple and addictive as ever, whether you are looking to have a quick match or you are looking to top the online leaderboards. I’ll even credit the single player who it at least tries to divert from the series’ familiar formula. For those with time and creativity, you can sink down the rabbit hole of the level editor. Basically, it’s Bomberman, it’s still fun, and I recommend it. Have a blast.