The second game in this superhero action series succeeds because it kept the core of the experience the same – if it ain’t broke, you know – and added a branching narrative feature to allow players to have some choice over the story being told.

Marvel: Ultimate Alliance 2 starts with Nick Fury leading an invasion team into Latveria, which he has branded as a haven for terrorists. Players start by assuming the identites of Captain America, Spider-Man, Iron Man, and Wolverine.

After that prelude, the game – and the story – opens up. While new playable characters – including Deadpool, Gambit, and Ms. Marvel – can be unlocked, the major addition in this game is the chance for players to choose a side after the government passes a Superhuman Registration Act. The ending of a game and the characters with whom players will battle depend on whether the player has selected Pro-Registration or Anti-Registration.

The game play is quick and smooth, and combat has been enhanced by the addition of fusion attacks, two-character combos, which are unique to a particular pair of heroes. As before, up to four players can co-operate, so book some time with some friends to play through this one.

Cross-posted at the Georgia Straight