From the development studios of Fingersoft comes the exhilarating sequel to the physics-based racing game that took mobile platforms by storm - Hill Climb Racing 2. Released on Nov 27, 2016, the game dives deep into the principles that made its predecessor a massive hit while bringing a plethora of enhancements, more vibrant graphics, and a slew of new challenges. Whether you’re scaling steep mountains or zipping through valleys, the objective remains: stay upright and cross the finish line. But with revamped vehicles, upgradeable parts, and a more competitive multiplayer mode, Hill Climb Racing 2 ramps up the ante in more ways than one.

The game showcases a noticeable improvement in visuals, offering a more vibrant and lively racing environment.

Competing in real-time with other players worldwide adds a layer of excitement and competitiveness.

The plethora of vehicles and upgradable parts ensures a unique experience for every player.

Hill Climb Racing 2 offers a captivating gameplay experience with its challenging tracks, various vehicles, and addictive physics-based driving mechanics.

The game heavily relies on microtransactions, which may become a hindrance for those who prefer a more balanced and fair progression system. While it is possible to play without spending money, the temptation to make purchases for quick upgrades or unlocks may be a drawback for some players.

Mastering vehicle control on certain terrains can be challenging and sometimes frustrating for beginners.

While fun, the core gameplay can become repetitive after extended play.

Diving into Hill Climb Racing 2, the initial impression was undeniably positive. The game exudes an energetic charm with its colorful visuals and quirky character animations. The environments, from serene beaches to rugged terrains, are detailed enough to keep the races interesting.

Navigating through the game’s user interface is straightforward. The menus are intuitive, making vehicle selection, upgrades, and race initiation hassle-free. Players start with a basic car, but as they progress and accumulate coins, they can either upgrade their existing vehicles or unlock new ones. Each vehicle feels distinct and caters to a specific playstyle. For instance, a monster truck might be perfect for rough terrains, while a dirt bike could be the preferred choice for hilly landscapes.

However, the true essence of Hill Climb Racing 2 is its physics-based gameplay. Here’s where the game really shines and, at times, frustrates. The delicate balance between acceleration and brake, especially when ascending steep hills or making a descent, can be challenging to master. Numerous times, my vehicle flipped, often leading to amusing but unfortunate consequences for the driver.

The multiplayer mode is a notable addition. Racing against ghost avatars of real-world players brought out the competitive spirit in me. Climbing the leaderboards, especially in the weekly events, is addicting. However, it’s here that the game’s microtransaction system becomes evident. Players with better upgrades, often purchased through real money, tend to have an edge. While not a game-breaker, it does push the free-to-play users to either grind more or invest money.