Windjammers 2 (Cross-platform, 2022)

Release date: Thursday 20th January 2022

Platforms: PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch

Published by: Dotemu

Developed by: Dotemu

Genres: Action, Sports

Story Drive📖 2/20
Accessibility🚪 16/20
Depth🤿 7/20
Challenge💀 15/20
Duration⌛ 4/20
Freedom🌎 5/20
Review Scores
4xCC7
Fouttaf Score
Dimension: 4
Rather than feeling like a direct sequel, Windjammers 2 functions more as a revival of the classic Neo Geo AES arcade title. While it borrows characters, stages, and—most importantly—the core concept from its predecessor, the transition to modern hardware brings more than just a visual upgrade. The gameplay refinements make it clear that this is not just a nostalgic re-release but an effort to modernize and enhance what made the original great.
The Flair: C
Visually striking yet faithful to its arcade roots, the game captures the energy of classic arcade experiences while polishing every detail, especially in terms of sound design. The beats that play during matches, combined with over-the-top but satisfying sound effects, create a dynamic and immersive atmosphere. The game maintains a delicate balance between retro aesthetics and modern presentation, ensuring that it feels both nostalgic and fresh.
The Feel: C
The gameplay finds the sweet spot between simplicity and depth, making it easy to learn but difficult to master. Matches are fast-paced and exhilarating, evoking that pure adrenaline rush that defines arcade experiences. The mechanics, from different types of throws to various advanced inputs, offer a wide range of strategic possibilities, keeping each match engaging and competitive. However, the difficulty curve is steep, reminiscent of old-school arcade games. Even on easy mode, completing a full single-player run can be frustratingly challenging. While this keeps the competitive spirit alive, it may deter casual players looking for a more accessible experience. That said, when fully immersed in a match, Windjammers 2 is an absolute blast to play.
The Fuel: 7
Outside of matches, Windjammers 2 struggles to deliver meaningful content. The character roster stands out as the only major highlight, but beyond that, the game offers very little. The single-player mode is barebones, consisting of just five progressively harder matches where you can select your opponent and stage. If you manage to win every match on your first attempt, you can finish the mode in under 30 minutes. The lack of extra incentives is disappointing. There are no unlockable characters, no additional modes, no meaningful rewards, and nothing to keep solo players engaged beyond replaying the same matches with different characters. It’s a real shame, considering how strong the gameplay foundation is.
Solid
72
Classic Score
Conclusions
Windjammers 2 is a well-executed reboot of a retro classic, offering a thrilling, fast-paced multiplayer experience. At its best, the game is incredibly fun and engaging, but its lack of content severely limits its long-term appeal. Had it included more incentives to keep players coming back — especially in single-player mode — this could have been a truly standout title.
Windjammers 2
Windjammers 2 (Cross-platform, 2022)
Badge Cabinet
Release date: Thursday 20th January 2022
Platforms: PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
Published by: Dotemu
Developed by: Dotemu
Genres: Action, Sports
Trait Chart
Story Drive 📖 2/20
Accessibility 🚪 16/20
Depth 🤿 7/20
Challenge 💀 15/20
Duration ⌛ 4/20
Freedom 🌎 5/20
Review Scores
4xCC7
Fouttaf Score
Dimension: 4
Rather than feeling like a direct sequel, Windjammers 2 functions more as a revival of the classic Neo Geo AES arcade title. While it borrows characters, stages, and—most importantly—the core concept from its predecessor, the transition to modern hardware brings more than just a visual upgrade. The gameplay refinements make it clear that this is not just a nostalgic re-release but an effort to modernize and enhance what made the original great.
The Flair: C
Visually striking yet faithful to its arcade roots, the game captures the energy of classic arcade experiences while polishing every detail, especially in terms of sound design. The beats that play during matches, combined with over-the-top but satisfying sound effects, create a dynamic and immersive atmosphere. The game maintains a delicate balance between retro aesthetics and modern presentation, ensuring that it feels both nostalgic and fresh.
The Feel: C
The gameplay finds the sweet spot between simplicity and depth, making it easy to learn but difficult to master. Matches are fast-paced and exhilarating, evoking that pure adrenaline rush that defines arcade experiences. The mechanics, from different types of throws to various advanced inputs, offer a wide range of strategic possibilities, keeping each match engaging and competitive. However, the difficulty curve is steep, reminiscent of old-school arcade games. Even on easy mode, completing a full single-player run can be frustratingly challenging. While this keeps the competitive spirit alive, it may deter casual players looking for a more accessible experience. That said, when fully immersed in a match, Windjammers 2 is an absolute blast to play.
The Fuel: 7
Outside of matches, Windjammers 2 struggles to deliver meaningful content. The character roster stands out as the only major highlight, but beyond that, the game offers very little. The single-player mode is barebones, consisting of just five progressively harder matches where you can select your opponent and stage. If you manage to win every match on your first attempt, you can finish the mode in under 30 minutes. The lack of extra incentives is disappointing. There are no unlockable characters, no additional modes, no meaningful rewards, and nothing to keep solo players engaged beyond replaying the same matches with different characters. It’s a real shame, considering how strong the gameplay foundation is.
Conclusions

Windjammers 2 is a well-executed reboot of a retro classic, offering a thrilling, fast-paced multiplayer experience. At its best, the game is incredibly fun and engaging, but its lack of content severely limits its long-term appeal. Had it included more incentives to keep players coming back — especially in single-player mode — this could have been a truly standout title.

Solid
72
Classic Score