In October of 2003, Capcom released upon the world something new, something viewtiful. You probably already know about Joe, our unlikely hero with his pink cape, and his assorted adventures through Movie Land to rescue his girlfriend Silvia. What you might not know is that Capcom has once again decided to grace us with another adventure that is sure to be as awesome as the first. I'm speaking of Viewtiful Joe 2.

Sylvia is a woman of many... "talents".

Viewtiful Joe 2 is shaping up to be everything that Viewtiful Joe was, and even more. This direct sequel features a great number of enhancements, ranging from new VFX powers (replay), over 40 different enemies to battle, to a two-player co-op mode. That's right; Viewtiful Joe 2 will be a two-player Movie Land romp. The basic play mechanics that made VJ so much fun remain intact for the sequel. Joe and Silvia move left to right in a quasi-2D environments in full cell shaded glory. Joe can still dish out tons of damage using his legendary punch/kick combos, as well as grabbing enemies and swinging them around, using them as a projectile. With his new VFX power, Replay, Joe can perform the same move up to three times in a row. Say Joe eats a hamburger to regain health. Using Replay, Joe can eat the same hamburger three times, gaining three times a much health. This power can also be used to perform the same combo three times over, dealing massive damage to an enemy, as well as gaining a ton of Viewtifuls.

While Joe is dishing out some knuckle sandwiches, Sylvia can also pull her own weight. Dressed in a light blue suit and sporting a pair of pompoms, Sylvia can also whip out a gun and shot powerful projectiles to take out enemies from a distance. According to Capcom, VFX powers will affect both characters at the same time. If Joe slows down time, Sylvia will as well. Skilled players will be able to use this to their advantage and perform devastating combos on enemies.

Whoa, that's hot!

Viewtiful Joe 2 promises to be a worthy sequel to it's critically acclaimed predecessor. By retaining all of the elements that made Viewtiful Joe such a great title, Capcom has expanded on that solid foundation and the results can be nothing but good. VJ2 will offer a more style, bigger moves and more challenge. Add a two-player mode and you have what is sure to be one of this years best titles.

Nick Basile