Review: Knack 2 (PS4)

Update: Due to reports of several game-breaking bugs, which appear to occur randomly, we currently advise against purchasing Knack 2 until the developers resolve these issues, ideally with a patch. This review will be updated as new information becomes available. More info (potential spoilers).

Mark Cerny, the game designer behind Knack 2 and its predecessor, is also considered the chief architect of the PS4. Consequently, his involvement in a launch title in the fall of 2013 felt appropriate. At senses.se, we were among the minority who enjoyed the original Knack. However, it was clear that the game was developed under significant time constraints to showcase the PS4’s capabilities. Knack suffered from an inconsistent frame rate, uninspired environments, and a somewhat rigid game design that, despite moments of enjoyment, never fully realized its potential. Despite its flaws, including frustrating late-game sequences, it remained a worthwhile experience. Given Knack’s mixed reception, a sequel seemed unlikely. However, we were pleasantly surprised by its arrival, as it represents a significant improvement.

Knack 2 essentially delivers more of the same, but with enhanced execution. Knack, a somewhat unconventional robot-like construct with a deep voice, joins his human companions to confront both a troll army and an ancient adversary previously faced by humanity. By accumulating crystals and relics through combat, Knack can now unlock and develop new abilities via upgrades.

The increased development time afforded to Knack 2 is immediately evident, addressing many of the criticisms leveled at its predecessor. The visual improvements are substantial, with the initial levels showcasing distinct environments, creating a sense of an epic adventure reminiscent of Uncharted. However, the gameplay mechanics, utilizing 3D environments and a fixed camera perspective, are more akin to God of War, Darksiders, and Metal Gear Solid. This PlayStation 4 exclusive offers multiple graphics modes. On the standard PS4, players can choose between a locked 30fps for smoother performance and enhanced graphical fidelity, or an unlocked frame rate, typically hovering around 45fps at 1080p. This is a marked improvement over the original, which struggled to maintain a stable 30fps. PS4 Pro users benefit from checkerboarding, scaling the graphics to 3200x1800p, with options for a locked 30fps or an unlocked frame rate, also around 42-45fps, but at a higher resolution. By default, Knack 2 selects the unlocked frame rate mode. Players can manually switch from “high resolution” to “high frame rate” in the options menu, reducing the resolution to 1080p but enabling a consistently smooth 60fps experience, which we found preferable. On our reference 65″ Panasonic DX900, the resolution difference was negligible, making the higher frame rate the more desirable option. This mode allows for a fluid action-platforming experience, pushing the PS4 Pro to its limits. A quick, on-the-fly switching option, similar to Rise of The Tomb Raider on PS4 Pro, would have been a welcome addition.

Knack can now enhance his capabilities with new attacks.

In addition to more diverse environments, Knack 2 offers a greater variety of enemies and increased emphasis on platforming and puzzle-solving. The quality of the platforming is particularly noteworthy. At 60fps, it feels comparable to titles from Insomniac Games or Nintendo (update: Unfortunately, Knack 2 has launched with at least three critical bugs that can force players to restart the entire game from the beginning. We anticipate a prompt patch from Sony to address this issue.) The combat is also improved, though it doesn’t quite reach the heights of titles like God of War. Special attacks, blocks, and parries are present, but there remains a degree of stiffness that inhibits the precision found in other action games, such as the Arkham series. The game’s difficulty setting dynamically affects available paths. Lower difficulties simplify platforming challenges by providing larger and easier platforms. A generous hint system is also implemented, alleviating concerns about puzzle-related roadblocks.

Local co-op – a welcome feature!

However, Knack himself remains a somewhat generic protagonist, and the surrounding characters appear somewhat artificial and cartoonish. While the levels are more varied, they lack significant originality, and the inclusion of Quick Time Events (QTEs) contributes to a sense that Knack 2 is somewhat dated and lacking in distinct personality. Ultimately, these are minor drawbacks. Knack 2 is enjoyable, and we have had a positive experience with it. We appreciated the original and were pleased by the sequel’s development, setting a favorable initial impression. Objectively, Knack 2 is a superior game in nearly every aspect. Combined with a lower price point, it is worth considering, especially for fans of platform adventures, and even for those who were not fond of the first game. The addition of local co-op enhances the appeal.