1999 · Puzzle · Tile-matching

Puzzle Link 2

SNK exclusive

The gameplay of Puzzle Link 2 is generally identical to the first game: Puzzle Link is a game where blocks of matching color have to be dissolved. New blocks constantly scroll into the screen from the top. The game is over when the first blocks reach the bottom of the screen. You can dissolve blocks by shooting at them.

Released: 1 January 1999
Platforms: Neo Geo Pocket Neo Geo Pocket Color
Genres: Puzzle Tile-matching
Developers: —
Publishers: —
Country: Japan
Age ratings: ESRB E

About

Puzzle Link 2 (Japanese: つなげてポンッ！2 Hepburn: Tsunagete Pon! 2) is a 1999 Arcade-style puzzle video game for the Neo-Geo Pocket Color. Like 1998's Puzzle Link, to which it is the direct sequel, Puzzle Link 2 was developed by Yumekobo and published by SNK. The game was later re-released as part of Neo Geo Pocket Color Selection Vol. 2 in 2022.

Media

The articlegameplay, story, development, reception

Gameplay

Just like its predecessor, Puzzle Link 2 is a tile-matching game in which the player must clear away blocks which occupy some of a 9x10 block grid. New to the sequel, there are three tile skins that the player can choose for the standard blocks (a default set styled like the symbols for the French suits in a deck of playing cards; the set of shapes used for the blocks in the first game; and a set resembling small rounded creatures with eyes).

Puzzle Link 2 once again features the Normal (now called 'Card Game'), Clear (now called 'All Clear'), and Battle modes from the original. Puzzle Link 2 also features two new modes: an Endless mode and a Card mode.

Development

By releasing in November 1999, Puzzle Link 2 released in Japan within the same calendar year as the Neo-Geo Pocket Color version of Puzzle Link.

Puzzle Link 2's North American release in April 2000 preceded the North American discontinuation of the Neo-Geo Pocket Color by only two months.

Reception

Puzzle Link 2 received favorable reviews upon release:

IGN gave the game a 9.0 out of 10, subtitled 'Amazing.' IGN's Craig Harris wrote the review and—despite noting its similarity to the original—concludes, "It's one of the NeoGeo's best puzzlers, and if you haven't picked up the original I highly recommend Puzzle Link 2."