Time Crisis 2: A Classic Arcade Shooter Game

Time Crisis 2 is a light gun arcade game and the second installment in the Time Crisis series. It was first released in arcades in March 1997, with an enhanced port released on the PlayStation 2 in October 2001. Developed and published by Namco, Time Crisis 2 is a rail shooter game that requires players to shoot enemies while taking cover to avoid being hit.

The game features a two-player co-op mode, where players can work together to complete missions. The story follows two agents, Keith Martin and Robert Baxter, as they attempt to stop a terrorist organization known as the Zagorias Federation from launching a nuclear weapon. The game is known for its fast-paced gameplay, intense action, and challenging difficulty.

Time Crisis 2 received critical acclaim upon its release, with many praising its graphics, gameplay mechanics, and co-op mode. The game was also successful commercially, with over 1.7 million units sold worldwide. Its success led to the development of several sequels and spin-offs, including Time Crisis 3, Time Crisis 4, and Crisis Zone.

Time Crisis II Overview

Time Crisis II is a first-person shooter arcade game that was developed and published by Namco in 1997. It is the sequel to Time Crisis and introduces cooperative multiplayer to the franchise. The game was later ported to PlayStation 2 in 2001 with enhanced graphics and polygon textures.

In Time Crisis II, players take on the role of agents, Richard Miller and Keith Martin, who are tasked with stopping a terrorist organization from launching a series of 64 satellites that will help to unify the world’s communication networks. The game features a foot pedal system, just like Time Crisis, where players can shoot or hide from enemy fire.

The arcade version of Time Crisis II runs on Namco’s System 23 hardware and features a dual-screen display. The game utilizes a light gun controller, called the Guncon 2, which features a D-pad and buttons for reloading and changing weapons. The PlayStation 2 version of the game is compatible with the Guncon 2 and the newer Guncon 3.

Time Crisis II features three stages, each with multiple areas, and a variety of enemies, including soldiers, helicopters, and tanks. The game also includes boss battles at the end of each stage. Players have a limited amount of time to complete each stage, and can earn extra time by shooting time bonuses that appear throughout the game.

Overall, Time Crisis II is a fast-paced and exciting arcade shooter that builds on the success of the original Time Crisis game. Its cooperative multiplayer mode and foot pedal system set it apart from other arcade shooters of its time, and its port to PlayStation 2 allowed players to experience the game at home with enhanced graphics and improved gameplay.

Gameplay Mechanics

Time Crisis 2 is an arcade game that belongs to the action game genre. It is a first-person shooter that uses a light gun called the Guncon 2 controller. The game has a reload and time limit system that adds to the challenge and excitement of the gameplay. The scoring and ranking system also encourages players to aim for high scores and improve their gameplay.

Light Gun Usage

The Guncon 2 controller is an essential part of the gameplay mechanics of Time Crisis 2. Players use the light gun to shoot at enemies on the screen. The controller has a trigger that players use to shoot and a pedal that they use to hide and reload. Players must aim accurately and shoot quickly to progress through the game’s levels.

Reload and Time Limit System

Time Crisis 2 has a unique reload and time limit system that adds to the game’s challenge. Players must hide behind cover to reload their weapon, which takes a few seconds. The game also has a time limit system that adds to the urgency of the gameplay. Players must complete each level within a set time limit, or they lose a life.

Scoring and Ranking

Time Crisis 2 has a scoring and ranking system that encourages players to aim for high scores. The game rewards players for accurate shots, headshots, and quick completion of levels. Players can earn bonuses for shooting certain objects on the screen, such as explosive barrels. The game also has a rating system that ranks players based on their performance, from D to S rank.

Overall, Time Crisis 2’s gameplay mechanics are challenging and exciting, making it a popular arcade game. The unique reload and time limit system, scoring and ranking system, and use of the Guncon 2 controller make it a must-play for fans of first-person shooters and light gun games.

Game Modes

Time Crisis 2 offers three different game modes for players to enjoy: Story Mode, Crisis Mission Mode, and Two-Player Mode.

Story Mode

In Story Mode, players take on the role of Richard Miller, a member of the V.S.S.E (Vital Situation, Swift Elimination) who is tasked with stopping the terrorist group, Neodyne Industries. The game features a total of five stages, each with its own unique setting and boss. The story is presented through cutscenes that play in between stages.

Crisis Mission Mode

Crisis Mission Mode is a solo play mode that offers a series of challenges for players to complete. The challenges range from shooting targets to defusing bombs and rescuing hostages. The mode features a total of 16 missions, each with its own set of objectives and time limit. Players are rewarded with points based on their performance, which can be used to unlock additional content.

Two-Player Mode

Two-Player Mode allows two players to play together on the same screen. The split-screen mode allows each player to have their own area of the screen to play on. The mode features the same stages and enemies as Story Mode, but with additional enemies and a higher difficulty level. Players can also link two PlayStation 2 consoles together for a more immersive experience.

Overall, Time Crisis 2 offers a variety of game modes to keep players engaged. With its thrilling gameplay and memorable characters such as Keith Martin, Robert Baxter, Christy Ryan, Wild Dog, and Ernesto Diaz, Time Crisis 2 is a must-play for fans of the arcade shooter genre.

Characters and Enemies

Time Crisis 2 features a variety of characters and enemies, each with their own unique abilities and characteristics. The game’s protagonists and antagonists play a crucial role in the game’s storyline and gameplay mechanics.

Protagonists

The two main protagonists of Time Crisis 2 are Richard Miller and Keith Martin. Richard Miller is a special agent of the V.S.S.E (Vital Situation, Swift Elimination) agency, and is tasked with stopping the terrorist group known as Neodyne Industries. Keith Martin is a rookie agent who assists Miller in his mission.

Antagonists

The main antagonists of Time Crisis 2 are the leaders of Neodyne Industries, Ernesto Diaz and Buff Bryant. Diaz is the CEO of Neodyne Industries, while Bryant is the head of security. The game also features several other notable antagonists, including Robert Baxter, Wild Dog, and the soldiers of Neodyne Industries.

Robert Baxter is a former V.S.S.E agent who has defected to Neodyne Industries. He serves as the game’s first boss and is a skilled marksman. Wild Dog is a recurring character in the Time Crisis series and serves as one of the game’s main antagonists. He is a skilled gunman and is known for his signature laugh.

Ernesto Diaz and Buff Bryant are the final bosses of the game and are both formidable opponents. Diaz is a skilled fighter and is armed with a variety of weapons, while Bryant is a heavily armored opponent who is difficult to take down.

Overall, Time Crisis 2’s characters and enemies are well-designed and add depth to the game’s storyline and gameplay. Each character has their own unique abilities and characteristics, making them a formidable opponent for the game’s protagonists.

Weapons and Equipment

Time Crisis 2 features a variety of weapons and equipment that can be used by the player. These include pistols, submachine guns, assault rifles, machine guns, and more. The game also features special equipment that can be used to gain an advantage in combat, such as the helicopter and the XSWAC-12.

One of the most commonly used weapons in Time Crisis 2 is the handgun. The game features a variety of handguns, including the Heckler & Koch Mk 23 Phase II Prototype, the Heckler & Koch Mark 23, the Glock 17, and the Mauser C96. Each handgun has its own unique characteristics, such as rate of fire, accuracy, and damage.

In addition to handguns, Time Crisis 2 also features a variety of submachine guns, assault rifles, and machine guns. These weapons are typically more powerful than handguns, but also have a slower rate of fire and are less accurate. Some of the most commonly used weapons in this category include the FAMAS F1 and the NDI special submachine gun.

To help players gain an advantage in combat, Time Crisis 2 also features special equipment that can be used. One such piece of equipment is the helicopter, which can be used to provide air support during combat. Another piece of equipment is the XSWAC-12, which is a powerful weapon that can be used to take out multiple enemies at once.

Overall, the weapons and equipment in Time Crisis 2 provide players with a variety of options for taking on their enemies. Whether players prefer to use handguns, submachine guns, assault rifles, or machine guns, there is a weapon that will suit their playstyle. Additionally, the special equipment in the game can be used to gain an advantage in combat and turn the tide of battle in the player’s favor.

Graphics and Sound

Time Crisis 2 is known for its impressive graphics and sound design. The game features vibrant and detailed graphics that are sure to immerse players in the game world. The graphics are sharp and clear, with a high level of detail that makes the game world feel alive and dynamic. The game also features smooth animations that enhance the overall experience.

The sound design in Time Crisis 2 is equally impressive. The game features a wide range of sound effects that help to create a realistic and immersive experience. The sound effects are crisp and clear, with each gunshot and explosion sounding distinct and powerful. The game also features a dynamic soundtrack that helps to build tension and excitement throughout the game.

Overall, the graphics and sound design in Time Crisis 2 are top-notch. The game’s impressive visuals and sound effects work together to create a thrilling and immersive experience that is sure to keep players engaged and entertained. Whether playing in the arcade or at home on a console, players are sure to be impressed by the game’s stunning graphics and sound design.

Time Crisis Series

Time Crisis is a first-person on-rails military light gun shooter series of arcade video games by Namco, introduced in 1995. The game is known for its unique gameplay mechanics, where the player must take cover behind objects to avoid enemy fire and reload their gun. The series has been well received by critics and gamers alike for its fast-paced action and challenging gameplay.

The first game in the series, Time Crisis, was released in 1995 and introduced the cover system mechanic that has become a staple of the series. The game follows the story of Richard Miller, an agent of the V.S.S.E. (Vital Situation, Swift Execution) organization, as he attempts to rescue the President’s daughter from a terrorist group.

The sequel, Time Crisis II, was released in 1997 and added co-operative multiplayer to the franchise. The game follows the efforts of intelligence agents Keith Martin and Robert Baxter as they attempt to thwart the efforts of a major industrial tycoon from launching a nuclear military satellite in space and rescue a fellow agent that they kidnapped.

The Time Crisis series has since spawned several sequels and spin-offs, including Time Crisis 3, Time Crisis 4, and Time Crisis 5. Each game in the series has added new features and gameplay mechanics while maintaining the core cover system gameplay that has made the series so popular.

Overall, the Time Crisis series is a classic arcade game franchise that has stood the test of time. With its fast-paced action, challenging gameplay, and unique cover system mechanics, the series has become a favorite of gamers and arcade enthusiasts around the world.

Additional Features

Time Crisis 2 offers several additional features that enhance the gameplay experience. These features include mini-games and the Starline Network.

Mini-Games

The mini-games in Time Crisis 2 offer a break from the main arcade shooter gameplay. One of the mini-games is Quick & Crash, which challenges players to hit as many targets as possible within a limited time frame. Another mini-game is Shoot Away 2, which is a clay pigeon shooting mode where players aim and shoot the clays before they disappear into the horizon.

Starline Network

The Starline Network is a feature that allows players to connect to a network of Time Crisis 2 arcade machines. This feature enables players to compete against each other in real-time, adding a competitive edge to the gameplay. The Starline Network also offers an Agent Trainer mode, which allows players to practice their shooting skills and improve their accuracy.

Overall, these additional features add depth and variety to the classic arcade shooter gameplay of Time Crisis 2.

Reception and Reviews

Time Crisis 2 received positive reviews from various gaming publications. According to Metacritic, the game received a score of 81 out of 100 for the PlayStation 2 version. The game was also praised for its arcade-like experience and the addition of Crisis Missions.

The game was also well-received in Japan, where it was listed as the second most-successful dedicated arcade game of the week by Game Machine in June 1998. It went on to become the sixth highest-grossing arcade game in Japan in both 1999 and 2001, respectively.

In 1998, Edge magazine awarded the arcade version of Time Crisis 2 with the “Coin-Op of the Year” award, placing it above other popular titles such as Sega Rally 2 and Get Bass.

The game’s positive reception can be attributed to its improved gameplay mechanics, such as the ability to switch between weapons and the addition of Crisis Missions. The game’s graphics and sound design were also praised for their high quality.

Overall, Time Crisis 2 is considered a successful follow-up to the original Time Crisis game, and its positive reception from critics and gamers alike solidified its place in the light gun shooter genre.

Technical Aspects

Namco System 23

Time Crisis 2 was developed and released by Namco in 1997 as a light gun arcade game. The game runs on the Namco System 23 hardware, which was also used in other popular arcade games such as Tekken 3 and Soul Calibur. The hardware features a 3D graphics engine and a sound system that provides high-quality audio output. The Namco System 23 hardware allowed the game to have smooth and fast-paced gameplay, which is essential for a game like Time Crisis 2.

Foot Pedal System

One of the unique features of Time Crisis 2 is its foot pedal system. The game features a foot pedal that players can use to duck behind cover and avoid enemy fire. This feature adds an extra layer of strategy to the gameplay and requires players to think quickly and react to changing situations. The foot pedal system is also responsible for the game’s title, as players must complete the game within a certain time limit or risk a “time crisis.”

The foot pedal system is also responsible for the game’s cooperative multiplayer mode. Two players can play the game together, with one player using the light gun and the other using the foot pedal. This mode adds an extra level of teamwork and coordination to the gameplay, as players must communicate and work together to complete the game.

Overall, the technical aspects of Time Crisis 2 are impressive and contribute to the game’s popularity. The Namco System 23 hardware provides smooth and fast-paced gameplay, while the foot pedal system adds an extra layer of strategy and teamwork to the game. These technical aspects, combined with the game’s exciting storyline and engaging gameplay, make Time Crisis 2 a classic arcade game that is still enjoyed by players today.

Visuals and Multimedia

Time Crisis 2 features impressive visuals and multimedia that enhance the gameplay experience. The game’s graphics are crisp and detailed, providing players with a high level of immersion. The game’s environments are well-designed and varied, ranging from city streets to a jungle setting. The use of lighting and shadow effects is particularly noteworthy, adding to the game’s overall atmosphere.

In addition to the game’s graphics, Time Crisis 2 also features a variety of multimedia elements. The game’s sound effects are realistic and dynamic, adding to the overall intensity of the gameplay. The game also includes voice acting, which is well done and adds a level of depth to the game’s characters.

Players can also enjoy a variety of multimedia elements outside of the main gameplay. The game includes a gallery mode, where players can view concept art and other artwork related to the game. Additionally, the game includes a sound test mode, where players can listen to the game’s soundtrack.

Overall, Time Crisis 2’s visuals and multimedia elements add to the game’s overall experience, providing players with a high level of immersion and entertainment.

Frequently Asked Questions

When was Time Crisis 2 released?

Time Crisis 2 was released in 1998 in arcades and later ported to PlayStation 2 in 2001.

How does Time Crisis 2 compare to Time Crisis 3?

Time Crisis 2 introduced the concept of multiple screens and cooperative gameplay, while Time Crisis 3 added new features such as the ability to choose between multiple paths and weapons. Both games received critical acclaim for their fast-paced gameplay and arcade-style shooting mechanics.

How many Time Crisis games are there?

There are currently five main entries in the Time Crisis series, with several spin-offs and adaptations. These include Time Crisis, Time Crisis 2, Time Crisis 3, Time Crisis 4, and Time Crisis 5.

Can Time Crisis 2 be played on a PC?

Time Crisis 2 was not officially released for PC, but there are several emulators that allow players to run the game on their computers. However, it is important to note that using emulators may be illegal and can potentially harm your computer.

Is Time Crisis 2 available on an emulator?

Yes, Time Crisis 2 is available on several emulators such as MAME and PCSX2. However, it is important to note that using emulators may be illegal and can potentially harm your computer.

How long does it take to beat Time Crisis 2?

The length of Time Crisis 2 varies depending on the player’s skill level and the game’s difficulty setting. On average, it takes about 30-45 minutes to complete the game on the normal difficulty setting. However, the game is designed to be replayable, with different paths and endings to discover.