Lumo 2 opens with a playful nod to the golden age of puzzle-platformers, dropping players into a vibrant, multi-dimensional world filled with over a hundred rooms to conquer. Developed by Triple Eh? and published by Numskull Games, it follows in the footsteps of its predecessor by combining exploration, platforming, and clever environmental puzzles. Every space introduces a fresh idea, often twisting perspective or genre, and together they form a nostalgic but ambitious homage to classic gaming.
The structure of the game revolves around interconnected rooms that constantly shift tone and mechanics. One moment you’re navigating a 3D maze of moving platforms, the next you’re solving top-down puzzles or diving into an arcade-style mini-game. This variety keeps the adventure engaging, and when the game’s flow clicks, it offers a wonderful balance of logic, timing, and discovery. However, the controls and fixed-camera angles can make precision platforming harder than it should be, occasionally turning inventive ideas into frustrating trial-and-error sequences.
Platforming is supported by solid technical performance on PlayStation 5, but the handling remains a sticking point. Movement feels just a touch too floaty, and misjudging jumps is common because of the camera’s depth perception. Players who enjoy mastering a challenge will find satisfaction in overcoming these quirks, yet they also highlight the fine line between retro charm and outdated design. The best moments come when mechanics and camera cooperate, letting you focus on the layered puzzles and exploration rather than fighting the controls.
Visually, Lumo 2 delivers a pleasing mix of crisp lighting, colorful geometry, and detailed textures that give its nostalgic setting a modern polish. Each of the three main worlds features distinct visual identities, from mystical ruins to neon-lit arcades, complemented by upbeat chiptune-style music and ambient effects that capture a sense of whimsy. The attention to detail extends to collectible cassette tapes and mischievous ducks scattered throughout, small touches that make the world feel alive and worth exploring.
The game’s pacing leans heavily toward exploration, with little narrative driving progression beyond curiosity and discovery. This minimalist approach suits the format, though it may leave some players wishing for a stronger sense of purpose or direction. The absence of clear guidance can lead to moments of confusion, especially in rooms where solutions depend on subtle visual cues or experimentation. Still, for players who enjoy untangling spatial riddles and backtracking for secrets, Lumo 2’s open-ended structure can be rewarding.
Where the experience shines most is in its variety. The inclusion of standalone mini-games and secret rooms adds depth, and collecting hidden items offers reasons to revisit older areas. Each solved puzzle feels genuinely earned, and the game’s sense of playful invention carries it even when frustration creeps in. At its best, it captures the thrill of discovery that defined the classics it celebrates – a rare feat for a modern tribute.
While imperfections in control and camera design hold it back from broader appeal, Lumo 2 succeeds as a distinctive and heartfelt homage to a bygone era. It’s a love letter to the imagination of early 3D adventures, one that rewards patience and curiosity. For those willing to embrace its quirks, this sequel offers hours of clever, charming, and challenging entertainment.
Score: 7.5/10
Press Play Media 