TY the Tasmanian Tiger 2: Bush Rescue is handled by Krome Studios, the Australian team also responsible for the original. Thus, we expect this sequel to incorporate the same kind of action-oriented platform gameplay that characterised the original – of course, now with different environments, characters, weapons, fighting techniques, and plot developments.

Being one of the series’ trademarks, the setting of the game is clearly inspired by the zany outback of Australia. The 50 levels span deserts, rain forests, beaches, mountains, and towns. These areas must be traversed in order to stop the evil Boss Cass, who has escaped from prison and reinstated himself as a powerful dictator of Cassopolis - the island on which the game is set. Boss Cass’s plan is to expand his empire, fortify his army of armoured reptiles, and become the sole ruler of the world.

Fortunately, Ty has formed an alliance with the Burramudgee Bush Rescue Mates, who are controlled by the AI and are dedicated to helping TY out. What’s more, Ty’s arsenal now consists of no less than 21 upgradeable boomerangs, complete with silly names like Kaboomarang, Lasharang, and Megarang. One of them can even be used as a grappling hook, essential to reaching new areas – another one functions as a lasso. Ty also gets to enter different “Mech Units”, but only after having obtained the appropriate license. With these units he can carry out magical elemental attacks, swim under lava, shoot lasers, and much more.

In addition to these new features, Krome promises further variety in the gameplay department. Platform-hopping, puzzle-solving, off-road truck driving, submarine missions, and helicopter flying are all activities that need to be mastered in the course of the single-player quest. Furthermore, cart-racing mini-games can be unlocked and played with friends in the multiplayer mode. Whether these races will rival Mario Kart remains to be seen.