On October 13, 2008 (yes, it was that long ago), 2D BOY studio presented their new game: World of Goo, an exceptional puzzle that took its rightful place in the hearts and in memories of the community. And just recently, on August 2, 2024, we finally got a chance to see the sequel to the outstanding puzzle.
World of Goo 2 finally released, and it doesn’t disappoint. Players are in for a unique puzzle that tells a little story about this gooey world.
So, what we have is a small planet divided into 5 stages, with the first one being educational and reminding players of the game mechanics: how to place the Goo, how to interact with it, how in-game physics work, and so on.
This is also where you get introduced to the new Goo. Some can transport liquid inside the connections, others grow from liquid, and yet others shrink from it. And it is with such simple tools that you will have to solve some very interesting puzzles.
The game itself can be described as being as simple as Tetris. But have you ever actually tried to beat Tetris? Each level gives a simple task that can be solved in three or so attempts, but…. The notorious BUT. Each level also has its own challenges or trials.
For example, to get 20 Gooeys across… while you only start with 8. Or maybe finish the level in 10 seconds or in a total of one turn. Every few levels, you will get new mechanics that you have to master in order to pass.
The developers managed to introduce both a challenge for hardcore players – those who want to test themselves, and for casuals who are exhausted from competing and completing these tasks. Every stage is also accompanied by pleasant music, both encouraging and entertaining when that’s required.
The most interesting feature of World of Goo 2 is the physics of the Goo you are interacting with. For example, when you have to build a bridge across the abyss, keep in mind that it can collapse under its own weight. Perhaps there are a couple of balloons to support the structure?
Many mechanics are brilliant and annoying at the same time. From personal experience, it took me about 2 hours to pass the challenge on the very first level. The game brings real pleasure from fighting against the unusual physics while also receiving new Goo with new properties.
Additionally, World of Goo 2 features a minimalistic but surreal picture with hypnotizing music that floats between flamenco, pub melodies and orchestra with proper choir.
The plot of the game is quite something, both surreal and incomprehensible. But it covers hundreds of thousands of years, starting from the revival of the Goo balls and ending with… spoilers, that’s for you to find out.
The game consists of only 5 chapters, but each brings something new and worthy. There are new ideas, both in gameplay and in the story, to enjoy and ponder. There is even noir detective, golf and certain jokes around gravity.
Lord, what ISN’T there in this seemingly simple game? Almost every level also features Curator’s Signs, giving players interesting (or not) hints and laconic messages. Crazy level design is mixed with pleasant gameplay, enough to captivate puzzle lovers for hours.
