System: Game Boy

Release date: March 1998

Strap in for a greedy treasure hunt with Wario Land II, the 1998 platformer that turned Mario’s rival into a proper star. This quirky 8-bit romp trades coins for chaos, but does it still shine in 2025? Let’s smash some blocks and see if Wario’s second outing is a retro gem or a rusty relic.

Gameplay: Wario’s Smash-and-Grab Glory

Wario Land II ditches lives and game overs for a wild twist: Wario’s practically invincible. Instead of dying, our chubby anti-hero gets knocked back or transformed by enemies—think fat Wario or zombie Wario—adding a daft spin to platforming. You’ll bash through levels, nab treasures, and hunt for secret exits across a sprawling, non-linear map. Wario’s shoulder charges and ground pounds feel spot-on for his chaotic vibe. It’s less about precision and more about causing a ruckus, which suits Wario perfectly.

The heist? Some puzzles can be a bit cryptic, and backtracking for 100% completion might test your patience. Still, the variety of levels—from pirate ships to haunted castles—keeps you hooked like a shiny coin in Wario’s grubby mitts. It’s a fresh take on platforming that feels bold even today.

Graphics: Chunky, Cheeky Charm

Wario’s big-nosed sprite is packed with personality, from his smug grin to his waddling run. Levels burst with detail—crumbling ruins, spooky forests—and enemies like spear-tossing pirates or goofy ghosts steal the show. Animations for Wario’s transformations are a proper laugh, making every hit a visual treat. It squeezes every pixel for maximum charm.

Sound: Tunes as Brash as Wario Himself

A cheeky banger of a soundtrack matches Wario’s greedy swagger with catchy chiptunes. Each stage has a distinct vibe, from jaunty pirate shanties to eerie castle melodies. Sound effects—Wario’s grunts, coin clinks, and enemy squawks—are punchy and memorable. The music delivers just enough attitude to keep you bopping along, though you might wish for a bit more variety by the end.

Replayability: A Treasure Trove of Secrets

With multiple endings, hidden treasures, and secret levels, Wario Land II begs for replays. Hunting every coin and unlocking the full map is a proper challenge, and the branching paths keep things fresh. It’s perfect for quick sessions or obsessive treasure hunts, though the lack of a traditional “lose condition” might feel too forgiving for some. You’ll keep coming back to snag that last shiny bauble.

The Retro Looney Verdict

Wario Land II is like Wario himself: loud, brash, and impossible to ignore. Its bold twist on platforming, charming visuals, and cheeky tunes make it a standout title. The odd obtuse puzzle or repetitive trek can’t dim its shine.