Amanda the Adventurer 2 is a deceptively unsettling horror game that masterfully blends nostalgic visuals with a creeping sense of dread. We had been hooked after we saw a number of gaming Youtube channel starts their playthrough of the first Amanda the Adventurer game. The first entry into the franchise was initially released on Steam in April 2023. The game has since expanded to various platforms, while the latest entry into this IP has been released on Steam
A Nostalgic Yet Unsettling Journey
In Amanda the Adventurer 2, players again assume the role of Riley, who inherits a house from her Aunt Kate. Upon discovering a note warning about a mysterious VHS tape in the attic, curiosity leads Riley to play the tape, unveiling a seemingly innocent children’s cartoon reminiscent of early ’90s shows like Dora the Explorer. However, beneath its cheerful facade lies a dark and disturbing narrative. This time around, Riley is able to venture outside the house and make their way down to the local public library.
Retro Graphics Enhancing the Horror
The game’s visual presentation is one of its standout features. The developers have meticulously crafted the in-game cartoon to emulate the look of a CRT TV screen from the early ’90s, complete with scan lines and muted colors. This retro aesthetic not only evokes nostalgia but also amplifies the unsettling atmosphere, making players question the innocence of the cartoon they’re watching.
Eerie Atmosphere and Clever Puzzles
As Riley watches the tapes, the cartoon’s protagonist, Amanda, interacts with her sheep friend, Wooly. The interactions start innocuously but soon take a sinister turn. Amanda becomes visibly upset when questions are answered incorrectly, and Wooly exhibits signs of fear, hinting at underlying tensions. These unsettling moments are cleverly designed to keep players on edge.
Multiple Endings and Replayability
Amanda the Adventurer 2 offers a ton of replay value for each play-through , with multiple endings based on the player’s choices and puzzle-solving prowess. This design encourages replayability, as players may find themselves returning to uncover all possible outcomes and piece together the full narrative. However, some may find the short playtime and the challenge of discovering every ending a bit limiting.
Audio and Voice Acting
The game’s audio design further enhances its eerie atmosphere. The voice acting captures the essence of vintage children’s programs but with a subtle, unsettling undertone. This juxtaposition of cheerful delivery with ominous subtext adds depth to the horror elements, making interactions with Amanda and Wooly both captivating and disconcerting.
Final Thoughts
Amanda the Adventurer 2 is a unique blend of nostalgia and horror, offering players a short yet impactful experience. Its retro graphics and eerie atmosphere work in tandem to create a game that’s both charming and chilling. While its brevity might leave some wanting more, the multiple endings provide ample incentive for replay. For those seeking a fresh take on horror that subverts the innocence of childhood memories, Amanda the Adventurer 2 is a journey worth undertaking. Let us know what you think about the title.
Rating : 8.3/10
Amanda the Adventurer 2 / 2024 DreadXP / Steam / $9.99
