App review: Temple Run 2

Temple Run 2 is a running game that has you swiping to keep away from a killer monkey while avoiding obstacles

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The original Temple Run offered a simple yet addictive concept: swipe for your life, and use a series of boosts to keep you alive a little longer. With Temple Run 2, Imangi Studios has been able to resurrect the same experience through a more graphically appealing sequel.

Pros

  • Graphics overhaul
  • Versatile environment
  • More obstacles

Cons

  • Fewer characters than before
  • Inconvenient pause button location

Bottom Line

If Temple Run tickled your fancy, this second instalment will no doubt end up consuming much of your time. It restores the same addictive concept through a much more visually pleasing game.

Would you buy this?

  • Price

    Free (AUD)

As soon as Temple Run 2 is launched, the aesthetic difference is evident. The whole 1998 feel is gone; the entire design is smoother and more vibrant. Edges are far less rigid, and there is a lot more colour going on.

The smoothness extends to the gameplay, from the movement of the character (the way he/she runs, jumps, and so on), to the look of the environment and the experience of running through (or past) it.

The key improvement over the last game is the world/level. While Temple Run provided scenery changes, the game was flat. Imangi has not only added hills and dips, but boosted the experience with side-winding roads and an abundance of extra obstacles, including zip-lines, rivers, and (probably my favourite) the rail cart. Oh, and there’s a bigger monster chasing after you.

The Temple Run 2 'Store' is much the same as the original's. There is a list of bonuses available, each which can be upgraded up to five times to grant a greater benefit. Coins collected while playing the game are used to pay for these upgrades. When it comes to special powers, some are unlocked when reaching a certain level, whereas others can only be attained by purchasing different characters. Guy Dangerous is the default protagonist, with three others on offer.

Levelling up is achieved by completing objectives. Three are listed for each run, and you only get new ones once you have completed those on offer.

While playing Temple Run 2, one downside I noticed is the position of the pause button. I understand it is there for quick access to avoid unwanted deaths when requiring an emergency pause, but it does get in the way. I found myself accidentally hitting the button with my palm on numerous occasions. This may be because I use a Galaxy Note II, or due to my grip. Housing it at the top seems ideal, though.

Developer: Imangi Studios
Version: 1.0.1 (Android)
Size: 32MB
Cost: Free
Reviewed on: Samsung Galaxy Note II

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Read more on these topics: games, android apps

Shiho Hitsugaya

1

I find this app really entertaining compared to the previous version of iMangi's Temple Run but I cannot deny the fact that the app is slow and tends to close during inappropriate times. I am currently using an iPod touch 4th Generation and I have to restart the device in order to play without any hang ups. The same scenario with a friend of mine which has the iPhone 4S.

Shiho Hitsugaya

2

I find this app really entertaining compared to the previous version of iMangi's Temple Run but I cannot deny the fact that the app is slow and tends to close during inappropriate times. I am currently using an iPod touch 4th Generation and I have to restart the device in order to play without any hang ups. The same scenario with a friend of mine which has the iPhone 4S. Any tips on how to solve this dilemma?

bjb1958

3

I really enjoyed Temple Run, now I am addicted to TR2, and find myself pausing at inopportune times with the pause button. Still it's a great way to waste a few hours collecting jewels to buy more stuff! Great game guys!

Moodi

4

The new version of Temple Run is enjoyable and I am happy to play it on occasion. Although I do fear it is bordering along the borders of simplification, something that made the first installment so enjoyable, addicting and easy to play. The game-play mechanics are still loyal to its roots of the original Temple Run although with the addition of sliding ropes, mining carts and abilities the game is pushing the boundaries of simplification, but it hasn't quite crossed them yet. On a higher note the graphical update is eye appealing and the increased random generation of tracks is useful to avoid feelings of repetition. In the end, the game feels new and slightly more various in its game-play mechanics, something which, if taken further, may ruin the Temple Run charm many have come to appreciate.

Matt

5

I enjoy the new app and I think it's a step up from the previous app.

However, I'm not a fan of the new achievements system. I enjoyed in number 1 being able to unlock the achievements in any order. Now, I can only unlock the ones in front of me instead of skipping ahead. It's also annoying when you get a new objective that you had already achieved in-game but without having the achievement unlocked.

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