by Jamil Hall

Created on: April 24, 2008   Last Updated: April 27, 2008

Runes of Avalon 2 is another addition to the stable of games that include time-honoured favourites such as the classic Tetris, and newcomers such as Bejewelled and Luxor. Given the task of rejuvenating the land of Avalon after the evils of the treacherous sorceress Morganna Le Fay, fabled sister of King Arthur, the player must travel around the land beating puzzle after puzzle.

By linking pieces together and completing simple puzzles, the player can unlock handy spells that can be the difference between beating the level, or failing and losing ones entire score, a somewhat irritating feature. The graphics are impressive but not outstanding or overwhelming, given the relative simplicity of the program. The soundtrack is nothing new, but it does make for a nice ambience when trying to remember what spell would be better for getting rid of that annoying cluster of rocks over there.
For lovers of the puzzle genre, Runes of Avalon 2 will make a pleasant addition to the collection, especially given the fact that the puzzles between stages provide a nostalgic look back to the days when puzzle games were based around rearranging pictures and quickest-click-wins style affairs.

With a simple point-click interface, the game is suitable for gamers of all ages, and an easy way to while away the time. Given the fact that there are a hundred levels to conquer, the game is guaranteed to keep you busy for a few hours, although the general repetitive nature of Runes of Avalon 2 may destine it for those rainy days when there is nothing better to do.

All in all, Runes of Avalon 2 is a good game, but not overly impressive. There's nothing there that could be called new, or truly innovative. However, the overall style of the game and the fact that it's very easy on the eyes means that for lovers of the puzzle genre, it will keep them busy for a decent amount of time and keep them coming back to spend a little time in the land of Avalon.
Overall in my book, this game merits a ranking of 3.5/5, not just for the actual quest itself, but for the detail that has gone into it, especially as it is only a small game.

Til next time, KEEP PLAYING!

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