When it comes to classifying a game within the horror genre, the main reference for many is the Resident Evil series. However, not all these type of games fit the formula created by Capcom. A clear example of this is Nightmare Creatures 2. A game that takes us on a journey through a disturbing and suffocating world populated by horrifying beings that could only exist in our worst nightmares.

The events of this sequel take place once again in London, but a century after the first game. This time around, we take on the role of Herbert Wallace, a secret agent who wakes up from a nightmare that led him to an asylum, only to fall into a harrowing reality. Now he seeks to put an end to Adam Crowley, the evil necromancer from the first game, who has remained alive with the help of dark magic and who continues to demonstrate his ability to create the most disturbing monsters.

The game’s structure is essentially the same as its predecessor, a beat 'em up where we must progress through a series of scenarios, fighting all types of horrifying creatures. However, this sequel incorporates important elements from the adventure genre that were not present in the first title. For example: the search of key items, two new abilities, swimming and climbing, this last one helps us reach specific places. As a result, nearly all levels encourage us to meticulously explore every corner in our quest to find the necessary objects that will let us continue advancing.

The combat dynamic is fast-paced. When we’re near an enemy, the control system automatically changes, so the buttons that previously performed functions like jumping or using objects now serve to execute all kinds of attacks and combos with a powerful axe, the main weapon that Wallace has to face his enemies.

Trough all levels, we can also collect items that will grant special attacks to our disturbed anti-hero, such as a gun with limited ammunition or various types of spells. These tools of extermination will specially help us defeat the most dangerous enemies in the game. Additionally, there is another significant novelty: fatalities (yeah, just like in Mortal Kombat). Once an enemy receives a consecutive amount of hits and gets stunned, we can finish them off with a single blow, even if they still have plenty of health left.

Now, the only negative aspect I find about this combat system is that it’s not possible to fight with two enemies simultaneously. In other words, when we’re near one of them, that monster becomes the center of attention, and the camera will only focus on it on-screen, regardless of our movements.

Leaving aside this small detail, NC2 has other aspects that I liked. The first one is about the eight levels of the game that are quite extensive, and exploring any of them can take more than an hour. The second one is the eerie design of the characters and the enemies, which are fantastic, and their animations are smooth. To top it off, the sound design seamlessly blends powerful melodies with effects that seem to come from beyond the grave, this enhances the already elevated tension of the game greatly.

In conclusion, as a horror fan, I believe that just for its dark and harsh atmosphere and its cast of creepy monsters, this classic game is worth a try.