Genre: Action / Hack and Slash
Publisher: Palace Software
Year: 1988
System: Amstrad CPC
Barbarian II: The Dungeon of Drax continues the brutal sword-swinging saga from the first Barbarian, with the warrior (or princess) now venturing through underground lairs and monster-infested caverns. The game trades the original’s one-on-one duels for side-scrolling exploration and combat, while retaining the series’ trademark gore and digitised animations.
On the Amstrad CPC, the game was generally well-received. Amstrad Action and CPC Attack highlighted its atmospheric visuals and fluid animation, particularly praising the diversity of enemies and environments. The controls, while responsive, were noted as requiring precision due to the high difficulty. Though it didn’t break new ground mechanically, Barbarian II was a worthy follow-up that delivered raw, visceral action and satisfying swordplay.
