Offered by Lima Sky LLC., Doodle Jump 2 is the sequel of its preview in the same title. It is available for both iOS and Android device users.  This online mobile game is free for downloading with further in-game purchase options. Doodle Jump 2 carries on the same game control and mechanics as its prequel, yet this new release incorporates more game characters, scenarios and themes that open up the new gaming world. It should be noted though, that players do not necessarily need to know or play the previous Doodle Jump game to start this one. Essentially, the goal of this game goes two directions: players either try to jump higher to earn more scores that help them move up on the leaderboard and outplay others; or players aim to collecting more stars that are scattered around their jumping route so that they can unlock new levels of the game. Either way, players are making progress in the game. Although, it might be too ambitious to aim at both goals in one gaming session, it doesn’t mean that it is impossible to hit two birds with one stone. That being said, for new players, it is usually easier to focus each level on one goal: earning as many scores as you can or collecting the stars needed to proceed. The game control of this game (as well as its preview) is very simple and mobile device tailored. The key motion in this game is obviously jumping, which is accomplished by titling the device left and right in different degrees and angles. Another important motion is to attack obstacles such as monsters, which requires screen tapping. However, generally speaking, the device tilting control is harder to master as the game difficulty levels up. To be more specific, the gameplay is to navigate the character by titling the screen to have them jump from one plank to another in an ascending way. At the same time, there are obstacles, particularly monsters, scattering around the planks. Players should look ahead and take precautions to avoid those. Once they bump into or get attacked by any of the obstacles, the game progress stops and players have to restart the level again. Meanwhile, there are also stars for players to pick up. However, oftentimes stars are located in those positions with potential dangers. That is why players need to have a basic focus on each level between scores and stars. This new release introduces more game environments involving a diverse range of landscapes and characters. 

Game Review

Doodle Jump 2 is in general a relaxing, cute and addictive casual game. The game design and art work are very special and eye-catching in terms of styles and images. Its prequel was quite successful and this new release adds more themes and characters while keeping the original game control and mechanics. This production decision generates a mixed market reaction. Some players like to use the same control to unlock more contents while others find it rather repetitive, claiming that the sequel is essentially the same as the prequel with merely more unlocks. Another major complaint about the sequel is the sensitiveness of the control mechanism, which seems to be more demanding on players jumping accuracy. In my opinion, the game control is certainly a special feature of this series and keeping this core motion helps retain the style of the game. However, it might be better if the developer offers a more customizable option on control settings.