Despite what you might have heard, the original Knack certainly had an audience. It may never reach the same heights as some of its platformer peers, but what it did it did relatively well and competently. Time (and memes) has not been too kind to the PS4 exclusive.
To the surprise of many, Knack 2 was announced at E3 2017 due for release in September. It promised to be an improvement, and it looks like it has proven to be just that, even if some reviewers think it’s marginal. The biggest flaw it has, according to some, is that it lacks character.
Here are some of the reviews for Knack 2 so far:
Polygon – Colin Campbell – 7.5/10
“Sure, it’s old fashioned, and its story is appalling. But it’s a reminder that the character-led platform combat game is still alive and well. Despite its good looks, it’s more a work of engineering than it is a work of art. But, as my kid said to me after we’d mashed our way through a co-op level, it’s kinda fun.”
Destructoid – Chris Carter – 5.5/10
“Knack II has the bones of a good platformer and a hint of charm but it just doesn’t execute. I’m not sure what the Knack series attempted to accomplish, but after a sequel, it stands as one of the most missable franchises Sony has ever crafted.”
GamesRadar – 3/5 – Nick Cowen
“Anyone who wasn’t already a fan of this franchise will find absolutely nothing to convince them to part with their money this time round.”
Twinfinite – 4/5 – Hayes Madsen
“With a $40 price point, Knack 2 isn’t a bad package, especially for younger audiences or families looking for a good co-op game. Sure Knack 2 has its share of issues, but it’s a definite step up from its predecessor.”
Push Square – 8/10 – Liam Croft
“Knack 2 is a genuinely great game. The huge breadth of combat options on offer make for a far better experience than anything the initial outing could ever offer, and with a much bigger focus on platforming, the title can start to lay claim to the promises of a Crash Bandicoot successor. Even if you were completely turned off by the original adventure, make sure you give Knack 2 a fair shot because what you find may pleasantly surprise you.”
Attack of the Fanboy – 4/5 – Attack of the Fanboy
“It’s a good thing that Sony didn’t close the book on Knack after their freshman effort for the series was panned. I don’t think anyone will be calling it GOTY like we saw with the jump from Uncharted to Uncharted 2. In a year full of big exclusive games that can only be played on the PlayStation 4, Knack is yet another compelling reason to own the console.”
Knack 2 releases tomorrow (Sept. 6th) for PS4.
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