New Completion - Donkey Kong Country 2 (SNES)

Add another notch to the belt. This time it's the SNES sequel from my favorite primate-centric series:

Along with the much needed help of my girlfriend, we together were able to conquer this revered title in a matter of weeks. That might not sound like much of an achievement, but after it took us an entire Summer to beat the first DKC, you can imagine we we're quite proud of the rapidity with which we finished this entry.

The biggest change with this title, at least from a game play perspective, was the ability to go back and save by spending coins you collect from within the levels. This meant you could save after every single completed level, and just before a boss level. From a convenience perspective, this made beating the game far easier than DKC.

As for the actual mechanics of the levels, it was really refreshing to see new moves like Dixie Kong's hair-twirling float, or any of the various new animals (the snake, or the spider for example) incorporated over and over rather than just as one off bonuses like the previous title.

Squawks to the rescue!

As improved as the levels are, the music is even more fantastic. With such a vibrant and varied soundtrack from heart-pumping, shredding rock to comical sea-shanties the reputation of DKC2 having a stellar soundtrack is well deserved. Props to David Wise, the composer of both DKC and DKC2, on delivering again.

"Snakey Chantey" by David Wise

This game was a wonderful experience, and absolutely an advancement over its predecessor which is always a huge plus. I can't recommend it any more highly to those that have not played it, but still own a SNES.

Now, all I have to do is find DKC3 to complete the trilogy. Wish me luck!