Once again, you choose from 3 warriors to take on Guld and his minions: Ax-Battler the barbarian, Tyris Flare the amazon, and Gulius Thunderhead the dwarf. However, for strength in numbers, a friend may join you. As in the original, you can go into the options screen and adjust it according to your own skills. In this sequel, there are 3 skill levels (easy, normal, and hard), and two modes of magic (normal & special). In normal mode, when the magic button is pressed all of it is used, whereas in special, you can control how much magic is used by holding the button down. The longer it is held, the more powerful the magic that is released against its foes. The adjustment of the life meter is the same as the original as well, as are options to re-arrange the magic, attack and jump TYRIS' DRAGON buttons. Finally, "The Duel" mode has been preserved, where you can go head-to-head against a friend or Guld's henchmen.

If I have any gripes, there are two minor ones: the music is weak compared to the first version, and the death screams leave something to be desired. Despite these two shortcomings, Golden Axe 2 is a must for hack and slash fans.

TIP: There are several places in the game where "holes" mean instant death. Use these to your advantage by luring the enemies into them.