Unravel Two - Review

Credits: Image Source - Coldwood Interactive/EA

"Unravel Two" is a platform-puzzle game produced by the Swedish studio Coldwood Interactive that continues the story from the first game, this time adding a cooperative mode. 

Your mission is to solve challenges and advance through levels. In this review, I will discuss the main topics related to the game.

• Also Read: Unravel - Is it worth it?

What is the main story of Unravel Two and how does it connect to the previous game?

In Unravel Two, the story centers around two small yarn creatures called Yarnys, who, connected by a thread, embark on a journey of cooperation and overcoming challenges. 

Unlike the first game, the latest installment focuses less on past memories and more on a present journey of discovery and growth. 

While it’s not a direct continuation, the game retains the emotional essence of the original, exploring themes of friendship, teamwork, and hope.

What is the main difference compared to the first title in the series?

The biggest novelty is the cooperative mode, where two players control their own Yarnys, promoting a collaborative gaming experience. 

This new mechanic directly impacts the puzzles, which now require more teamwork, such as creating platforms together, pulling objects, or swinging back and forth.

Is it necessary to know the first game to understand the plot of the second?

It is not necessary to play the first game to understand the plot of Unravel Two. The game has an independent narrative focused on the friendship and collaboration between the two Yarnys. 

The story is presented subtly through background scenes and visual elements, allowing new players to enjoy the experience without prior knowledge of the original title.

Is there a cooperative mode and how is it implemented in the gameplay?

Yes, the game is strongly focused on the cooperative experience. It allows two players to control two Yarnys simultaneously, encouraging collaboration to solve puzzles and overcome challenges. 

The cooperative gameplay enables players to work together to perform actions like swinging each other, creating bridges with their threads, and coordinating precise jumps.

If playing alone, the player can switch between the two Yarnys, who remain connected by the thread of yarn, making it easier to navigate obstacles.

Credits: Image Source - Coldwood Interactive/EA

How does the interaction between the two main characters work during the adventure?

The two Yarnys are connected by a thread of yarn, allowing them to work together in various ways. For example, the characters can swing each other to reach distant platforms, create bridges using their threads, or cooperate to move heavy objects. 

Additionally, they can temporarily unite, allowing the player to control only one Yarny in certain situations.

What new mechanics have been introduced compared to the previous title?

In Unravel Two, several new mechanics were introduced to take advantage of the concept of two simultaneous characters:

• Cooperation Between the Two Yarnys: Unlike the first game, the two characters now need to work together to overcome obstacles. They can unite to form one thread or separate to solve puzzles in a coordinated way.

• Launch Movement: Players can launch one Yarny from the other, creating new opportunities to reach higher platforms or difficult-to-access locations.

• Climbing with the Thread: The characters can use the thread to climb surfaces or help their partner reach a higher area, improving the vertical dynamics of the game.

• Pendulum Swinging: In addition to swinging on hooks like in the first game, it is now possible to swing using the partner, which increases the complexity of the puzzles.

These new mechanics enhance the focus on cooperation and expand the possibilities for navigation and puzzle-solving.

Are the scenarios varied and do they have unique challenges in each phase?

Yes, they are quite varied and offer unique experiences in each phase. Each level features different environments, such as forests, rocky shores, urban areas, and ruins, each with its own aesthetics and atmosphere, featuring different missions.

Are there puzzles that require greater coordination and cooperation between players?

The game includes obstacles that require teamwork. Since it was designed with a focus on cooperative play, many of the puzzles and obstacles are made to be solved with the help of both characters. 

Often, one character needs to hold an object or anchor a position to allow the other to advance. This constant interaction between the two characters is fundamental to solving the game’s more complex challenges.

What is the average duration of the main campaign and the extra challenges?

According to HowLongToBeat, it takes about 5 hours to complete the main campaign and 7.5 hours to finish the main campaign along with the side missions. 

Since I played half of a campaign with a friend and restarted the game to play alone, I spent around 19 hours to complete the game.

Are there secrets or collectible items hidden throughout the levels?

Yes. While exploring each phase, players can find small items hidden in hard-to-reach places, encouraging thorough exploration. The collectibles are like a type of badge coin, located in more strategic points of the phase.

Is the difficulty level accessible for different types of players?

Absolutely. The game is designed to be friendly for both beginners and more experienced players. You may find yourself scratching your head at some puzzles, but nothing that feels impossible.

Credits: Image Source - Coldwood Interactive/EA

Is there additional content or challenges after completing the main story?

Apart from revisiting previous stages or completing side missions, Unravel Two does not offer any extra modes beyond the main campaign.

Conclusion.

Unravel Two is a game that I classify as "Play to Pass the Time." This definition reminds me of games I play without watching the clock or getting too stressed about difficulty or reaction speed. 

I recommend Unravel Two for those who enjoy 2D and platform games, especially for people who will play in pairs. If you know and liked a game called It Takes Two, you will probably enjoy this one as well. They are similar but not identical.

If you're interested in watching specific parts of the game, access my full YouTube playlist.