The original Klonoa invoked mounds in joy among gamers around the world. Essentially a Japanese cartoon character thrown into a magical and mystical world complete with classic elements of platform gaming goodness. Therefore why fix a formula that is not broke? Thankfully, Namco has kept that winning formula and has used the power of the Playstation 2 to further enhance the storytelling and visual splendor of its new iteration, Klonoa 2: Lunatea's Veil. Not only is the presentation brilliant but the gameplay is a combination of classic platform gaming cliches mixed in with some new elements. The result is a gorgeous yet somewhat short lived platform game.

Graphics/Sound
Stunning best describes the visual experience in Klonoa 2. The developers at Namco have taken cel shading to the next level by combining it with brilliant 3D level design and rich colours. All of the characters look and move like an interactive cartoon which heightens its realistic aspects. The style of the level design in Klonoa 2 is breathtaking thanks to trippy, dream-like realms intertwined with mysterious and dark realms. As a result, the level design never fails to amaze or bore the player as they move through the 24 levels. There are levels where Klonoa must command a hover board. In these levels the pace is fast thanks to the constant 60 frames per second refresh rate.
On the aural side of things, Klonoa 2 is full of Japanese dialogue, sound effects, and soundtrack. This is not necessarily a bad thing as the game perpetuates a very positive and happy tone. However, older gamers will more than likely find it too childish in nature.

Gameplay
Klonoa 2 is one of those games that you can pop directly into your PS2 and start playing immediately. The control while on the simplistic side of things is more than enough for what the environments demand. This is great but as you close in on the end of the game, you will feel that something has been left out. Perhaps this feeling would have been satisfied if some power up moves were unlockable as you progress. There is no free exploration or no roaming throughout the lush 3D worlds. Instead, three simple buttons are used to control Klonoa. The challenges throughout the game are rehashes or old cliches found in platforming games of the past. You can expect death-defying leaps, moving platforms, respawning enemies and the usual level bosses.

Value
Klonoa 2 is mostly straight forward. Travel through the 24 levels, defeat the bosses and complete the game. There are a number of hidden items spread throughout the world that will keep players coming back for more. In addition, there are six Momett Doll Bells in each level. A Momett Doll is acquired when all six Bells are collected and the level is cleared. Collect all of the dolls and take them to the Momett's House for a well deserved surprise. There is somewhat of a cooperative mode called Popka Mode. In this mode, a second player takes control of Popka who can save Klonoa from falls if the move is timed correctly. This mode is not really functional in the same manner as the cooperative mode was in The Adventure of Cookie and Cream.

Final Word
Namco avoided reinvented the genre and took the basic elements to make what ultimately is a joy to play. This is a must purchase for the younger crowd, while a rental will suffice for the mature crowd. Regardless, be sure to give Klonoa 2 a look.