Crash Bandicoot 2 - Cortex Strikes Back (E) ISO
[SCES-00967]

The second game in the Crash franchise introduced many gameplay tweaks, while maintaining most of the same elements:
- Crash can slide, bodyslam and crawl, introducing faster and more varied gameplay.
- The levels can be chosen in each world, giving a less linear feel.
- The game can be saved freely, instead of the irritating bonus-or-gem system.
- The gems don't have to be got without dying, as in Crash 1. This makes it a bit easier, but a lot less irritating.
The level design is excellent. For the most part, it is the standard Crash affair, but between polar bears, bosses and jetpacks, there is enough variety to keep it fresh. Collecting the gems feels rewarding and interesting, rather than a dull necessity.
Overall, the game is well rounded, harmless fun. Certainly worth checking out.