Summary

Zone of the Enders: The 2nd Runner (2003) elevates the mecha combat genre with its intense action and storyline. Praised for gameplay and visuals but criticized for its brevity, it’s a memorable entry in the mecha gaming space.

• Release Year: 2003
• Genres: Hack and slash/Beat ’em up, Shooter
• Platforms: PlayStation 2
• Developers: Konami Computer Entertainment Japan
• Publishers: Konami

Introduction

Zone of the Enders: The 2nd Runner is a sequel known for its improved mecha combat and action-packed gameplay. Set two years after the original, it follows Dingo Egret’s fight against the BAHRAM military organization.

Synopsis

The plot of “Zone of the Enders: The 2nd Runner”, known in Japan as “Anubis: Zone of the Enders”, has the player controlling the “Orbital Frame” Jehuty.

The plot is set two years after the events from the original “Zone of the Enders” and focuses on Dingo Egret, a former member of Mars’ military organization BAHRAM. The leader of BAHRAM, Ridley “Nohman” Hardiman, wants Dingo back with him. However, Dingo rejects this offer, leading to Nohman shooting him.

Dingo is saved by the agent Ken Marinaris, who connects his body to Jehuty. This connection forces Dingo to work in order to defeat BAHRAM. Unlike its predecessor, the game is now centered on action elements with the player not needing to protect civilians in need and instead Jehuty contains more weaponry than in the previous game.

The game had a new director, Shuyo Murata, who producer Hideo Kojima appointed in order to provide a different experience. The team worked to cover the criticism the original “Zone of the Enders” received, resulting in “The 2nd Runner” having more action elements.

Throughout “Zone of the Enders: The 2nd Runner”, the player controls Jehuty, the Orbital Frame piloted by Dingo, from a normally behind-the-back third-person viewpoint that centers itself between the player and enemy when locked on. The game is not just about operation, but synchronization. The high-speed robot action game operates gigantic humanoid weapons called “orbital frames”, using projectile shots and blade weapons. As a successor of “Zone of the Enders”, it has simple operating and quick response which makes a player become one with Jehuty.

Characters

Dingo Egret, Ken Marinaris, and other allies fight against Ridley “Nohman” Hardiman and the forces of BAHRAM. The game features a cameo of Leo Stenbuck piloting the Vic Viper.

Gameplay

Enhanced mecha combat with a variety of weapons and abilities. The game introduces more action elements and does not require the protection of civilians like its predecessor.

Conclusion

Zone of the Enders: The 2nd Runner remains a cult favorite for its engaging story and dynamic combat, representing a significant improvement over the first game.

Review Score

8/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

Fan Art

Fan Art Style: Normal

Fan Art Style: Retro

Fan Art Style: Modern