Torchlight II (2012)

by Christopher September 20, 2012

written by Christopher September 20, 2012 4 minutes read

Summary

An action RPG that offers vast exploration, character customization, and multiplayer fun.

Release Year: 2012
Genres: Adventure, Hack and slash/Beat ’em up, Indie, Role-playing (RPG)
Platforms: Linux, Mac, Nintendo Switch, PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, Xbox One
Developers: Runic Games
Publishers: Beijing Perfect World, Runic Games

Introduction

‘Torchlight II’ enhances the action RPG experience with a larger world and deeper customization.

Synopsis

The plot starts with the destruction of the town of Torchlight, at the hands of the Alchemist from the first game. The player character follows the trail of destruction left in the Alchemist’s wake as he searches for a cure to his illness which has driven him insane.
Like the original Torchlight, Torchlight II features randomly generated dungeons for the player to explore, and numerous types of monsters to fight for experience and loot. Torchlight II maintains the same basic gameplay as its predecessor, but features overland areas with multiple hub towns, and a longer campaign. Other new features include time of day cycles, weather effects, and a redesigned user interface.
At the end of the first Torchlight, the ancient dragon Ordrak — the source of the corruption under the town of Torchlight — was defeated by the Destroyer, the Alchemist, and the Vanquisher. Several years have passed, and the Alchemist has become obsessed with the dangers of Ember and the Ember Blight from which he was apparently never cured. He steals Ordrak’s Heart and destroys the town of Torchlight.

Characters

Four playable classes: Engineer, Outlander, Berserker, Embermage.

Gameplay

Action-packed with deep customization, multiplayer sessions, pets, and fishing.

Conclusion

A rewarding sequel that enriches the ‘Torchlight’ legacy.

Review Score

8.5/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

Fan Art

Fan Art Style: Normal

Fan Art Style: Retro

Fan Art Style: Modern

Christopher

Christopher has carved a niche for himself as an authority on retro pre-2000 computer games. With a passion that borders on reverence, Christopher delves deep into the pixelated past of gaming, unearthing gems and sharing insights that resonate with both nostalgic players and curious newcomers. His articles serve as a time machine, transporting readers back to an era where gameplay and creativity often trumped graphical fidelity. Cristopher's expertise isn't just in cataloging these classics; he analyzes their design, the context of their creation, and their impact on the gaming landscape, offering a comprehensive look at the evolution of digital entertainment. Beyond mere retrospectives, Christopher champions the relevance of these retro games in today's high-definition world. He skillfully draws parallels between the foundational mechanics of yesteryear's titles and the modern gaming innovations they inspired. His work goes beyond mere preservation; it's an ongoing dialogue between the past and present of gaming. Christopher's content educates, entertains, and ignites discussions within the gaming community. His dedication not only keeps the legacy of pre-2000 games alive but also highlights their importance in shaping the future of video gaming.