Even though I warned you, if you still went ahead and got the Apple Arcade subscription, there’s not much I can do except recommend a pretty good Apple Arcade game: Jetpack Joyride 2.
In this post, I’ll share my first thoughts on the game and give you some tips on how to play it to win.
Jetpack Joyride 2 First Impression
Here’s my first impression of Jetpack Joyride 2 –
- Revamped Art Style: The transition from the 16-bit style to a modern 2D art style seems to be a significant change, and while some fans might miss the old style, the new look makes it feel updated for a new generation.
- Gameplay & Changes: The new gameplay elements, like the built-in weapon for Barry’s jetpack, new drones, bosses, and the fact that it’s no longer an endless runner but split into acts, bring in fresh challenges and excitement.
- Soundtrack & Animations: The revamped soundtrack keeping the essence of the original while modernizing it is cool. However, it’s noted that some animations feel a bit generic compared to the original – hopefully, these will be polished before the final release.
- Monetization: The addition of energy and microtransactions points towards a more monetized experience than the original, but it’s nice to know that ads and in-game purchases are still optional and not forced on you.
- New features: The addition of XP, the free Battle Pass system, and new power-ups and vehicles make this a substantial update, although it means some content like spin tokens and certain in-game items from the original are missing for now.
- Sequel Justification: It’s interesting to compare this to other games where continuous updates might have harmed the original’s charm. I agree that creating a sequel allows them to introduce modern features and monetization without jeopardizing the original game’s legacy.
Overall, the sequel is shaping up to be a great game, modernized yet retaining a lot of the original’s charm, but it will be tough to beat the iconic status of the original.
How to Play Jetpack Joyride 2?
Jetpack Joyride 2 is an action-packed side-scrolling game where you control the character Barry as he zooms through different levels with his jetpack. Here’s how you can get started and master the game:
- Download and Install: If you haven’t already, download Jetpack Joyride 2 from Apple Arcade.
- Start the Game: Open the game from your device’s home screen and tap to start.
- Basic Controls:
- Tap and Hold: Tap and hold the screen to make Barry fly up using his jetpack.
- Release: Release your finger to let Barry descend.
- Move Around: Navigate through the level by tapping and releasing to control Barry’s height and avoid obstacles.
- Collect Coins and Power-Ups:
- Coins: Collect as many coins as possible. These can be used to upgrade your gear and buy new items.
- Power-Ups: Look for special items like the “Lil’ Stomper” and “Crazy Freaking Teleporter” to give Barry temporary special abilities.
- Avoid Obstacles: Look out for and avoid zappers, missiles, and other hazards that can end your run.
- Engage Enemies: Use weapons and gadgets to fight off new enemies introduced in Jetpack Joyride 2.
- Upgrade Your Gear: Use the coins you collect to upgrade Barry’s jetpack, vehicles, and weapons.
- Complete Missions: The game has various missions and challenges that reward you with extra coins and other bonuses. Completing missions can unlock new content and increase your score.
- New Features: Engage with new story elements and navigate new environments as you try to stop the scientists’ experiments.
- Practice: The more you play, the better you will get at controlling Barry and guiding him through to the increasingly challenging levels.
How to Win in Jetpack Joyride 2?
- Don’t upgrade your Jetpack: Upgrading your Jetpack might seem tempting, but when you upgrade to a new core, you lose all the upgrades. Also, jetpack skins don’t make a difference as you only have one main Jetpack.
- Escape frozen status quickly in Arcade mode: During the frozen challenge, you can escape the frozen status by quickly tapping on the screen, essentially using the Jetpack as usual.
- Collect pink gems in the Factory: In the Factory mode, when you’re in the section where you choose the bonus your scientists work for (top right room), always opt for the pink gems. Not having to worry about gems for reviving Barry later in the game is incredibly helpful.
- Use the Coin Magnet and Critical Shot upgrades: This one is more of a preference, but using the Coin Magnet and Critical Shot upgrades makes the game a breeze.
Is Jetpack Joyride 2 better than the Original?
The original “Jetpack Joyride” has a special place in my heart because of its simplicity, charm, and addictive endless runner mechanics. I love the straightforward gameplay, and I’ve spent a lot of time gathering coins, leveling up, and unlocking various vehicles and cosmetics.
However, “Jetpack Joyride 2” brings some exciting new mechanics, upgrades, and individual levels that significantly evolve the game. I find these new features engaging and think they make the sequel a worthy successor.
Additionally, the game kept me hooked with its expanded gameplay. Still, I’ve noticed that the sequel’s Free-to-Play (F2P) elements can detract from the overall experience.
So, if you appreciate a pure, endless runner experience, you should prefer the original like I sometimes do. On the other hand, if you’re looking for more features and expanded gameplay, “Jetpack Joyride 2” offers quite a bit more value.
