Buckler 2

In theory this platformer is very good when it comes to overall features, but the movement speed is very spontaneous, making it hard to control the character. Luckily it has the option to reduce the screen shake because it was extremely distracting. That being said, $3-5 price range is pretty generous for the amount of content that it has. It has 2 modes, an arcade game that works like a roguelite (with local multiplayer), and a story mode which is basically the same thing with big boss fights and a hub area. In the story mode you can visit shops to buy items, play small mini-games like slot machines, and talk to inhabitants of the city. There are a ton of playable characters with a few different abilities per individual. The art style and soundtrack are not bad for such a cheap game, although it's hard to see the character on some of the stages. The default controls for 360 were pretty bad, I assume there are some regional preferences here (can't rebind). [h1] Pros: [/h1] + 2 modes, a lot of content + local multiplayer + shop items and extra characters + decent art and soundtrack + achievements & leaderboard [h1] Cons: [/h1] - platforming is a bit clunky - not ideal controls IMO (horrible screen shake, you can disable it though) [b] Overall Thoughts: 7/10 [/b] Good price for a game with a lot of features, if you don't mind some platforming problems. I would like to see a few adjustments to character's acceleration maybe (make it more gradual). For the most part I think the game is very good for what it is, even kinda unique in a way because it also has a stage painting mechanic which is uncommon for this genre. [code]Review By: http://store.steampowered.com/curator/31294838-Hidden-Gem-Discovery/ [/code]

Great game! I have been following the development of this for a while, and it is obvious the developer has a deep passion for his work. It shows! Every second of this game you can feel the love put into it, and it makes me extra happy to play it! I also suggest trying out as many characters as possible, as a lot of my favorite moments playing were with the side characters. I highly recommend picking it up.

This platformer is very good as far as the story, missions, characters, and map. It has 2 modes, an arcade game that works like a multiplayer, and a story mode. I think it is priced well for the content and is worth getting the game. Overall, I think it should be rated 8/10 overall for this game.

This is an amazing game with a really cool design and color palette, the controls are kinda hard, but I'd definitely like to see more about this game, or new games from the same creator

I love the premise of this game and most projects that this developer has put out, but sadly, this game is too jank for a positive review. Go watch a playthrough on youtube and save those 4 dollars for another AploveStudio game

BUCKLER 2 is a compact yet surprisingly earnest indie action-platformer that blends retro design sensibilities with light roguelite structure and an understated narrative core. Developed and published by AploveStudio, the game clearly draws inspiration from classic 2D platformers, embracing pixel art visuals, straightforward controls, and a focus on skill-based movement and combat. Rather than chasing large-scale ambition, BUCKLER 2 positions itself as a focused experience built around repetition, mastery, and personality, offering players a modest but thoughtfully constructed journey through a strange and symbolic world. You take control of Venice, a quiet protagonist who carries a buckler that serves as both a defensive tool and an offensive weapon. This shield-centric design gives the game its identity, encouraging close-quarters encounters and careful positioning rather than long-range combat or flashy abilities. Enemies are designed to challenge timing and awareness, pushing players to learn patterns and react precisely rather than brute-force their way forward. Platforming plays an equally important role, with levels filled with hazards, vertical sections, and enemy placements that reward patience and familiarity over reckless speed. The structure of BUCKLER 2 borrows lightly from roguelite design, emphasizing repeated runs and gradual improvement. Death is expected, and each attempt teaches players more about enemy behavior, level layouts, and how best to use each character’s abilities. While the randomness is not extreme, the variation between runs keeps the experience from becoming stale too quickly. Unlockable characters add meaningful variety, each bringing different weapons, playstyles, and combat rhythms that subtly change how levels are approached. This character diversity encourages experimentation and replay, even if the core mechanics remain consistent. Beyond the action, the game weaves in a surprisingly thoughtful narrative backdrop. The world of Sector Omega is shaped by an ancient conflict rooted in love, division, and misunderstanding, represented through opposing factions and cryptic lore. This story is not delivered through lengthy dialogue or cinematic sequences, but instead through environmental details, progression, and brief character interactions. The result is a narrative that feels more suggestive than explicit, allowing players to interpret themes and meaning at their own pace. While not deeply developed, the lore adds emotional texture and gives context to the constant struggle players face. BUCKLER 2 also makes room for moments of levity and diversion. Side activities like fishing, mini-games, and other small distractions break up the intensity of combat and platforming, giving the game a playful edge. These additions do not significantly alter progression, but they help establish the game’s quirky personality and make the world feel more alive. The soundtrack and sound effects support this tone, offering simple but fitting audio that complements both tense encounters and quieter moments without overwhelming the experience. Technically, the game is accessible and easy to jump into. Controls are responsive, system requirements are modest, and the overall presentation is clean despite its low-budget origins. Updates and patches have steadily improved balance, expanded character options, and introduced extra modes such as local competitive play, showing continued developer support. Steam achievements further encourage players to engage with the game’s systems more deeply, rewarding exploration and mastery rather than mere completion. Overall, BUCKLER 2 is a small but sincere indie title that succeeds through focus rather than scale. It doesn’t attempt to redefine the platformer genre or overwhelm players with complex systems, instead offering a tight loop of action, learning, and replay supported by charming visuals and subtle storytelling. For fans of retro-inspired platformers who enjoy shield-based combat, repeatable challenge, and a world that hints at deeper meaning beneath its surface, BUCKLER 2 provides a satisfying and quietly memorable experience. Rating: 5/10

It has a cool idea but its super weird and unclear blah blah blah, theres also a bunch of crashes that make playing really annoying, if the creator made a sequel or something maybe it could be good, buckler 2 isnt good in its current state though

very fun game. There are a couple minor bugs but the only actual bad one is the game can sometimes crash if any of the miniboss roses deal contact damage which has screwed me out of the good end twice now. other than that, game is an absolute blast to play. simple and fun