Temple Run is one of those rare iOS games that went completely viral on the App Store. The fact is, there are new games released continually on iTunes, and most of them never even make a blip on the radar for iOS gamers. However, every so often the stars align just right, and a game absolutely breaks out in popularity. Temple Run is a great example of this.

It only seems logical that creators of Temple Run would look to capitalize on the popularity of the first game with a sequel, and capitalize they most unquestionably did. However, they also took their time and make sure to deliver a game that actually surpassed the original in terms of fun and addictive gameplay, and the game remained free with in-app purchases, which is a major reason why the game became so popular in the first place.

If you were a fan of the first Temple Run, or even if it flew under your radar and you never had the chance to play it, you should definitely download Temple Run 2, as it takes the best parts from the first one and improves them to create an even more fun and addictive game.

Gameplay

Just like the first Temple Run, the gameplay involves trying to keep running for as long as possible without falling off a cliff or smashing into an obstacle. It requires a great deal of focus as you progress through the game, and it will test the reflexes of even the most adept gamers.

temple run

Just like the original, there are plenty of powerups designed to help you get as far as possible in the level. There are a few new powerups in Temple Run 2, but the most useful ones from the original remain a key part of the sequel.

play temple run

So what's new in Temple Run 2? First, there are zip lines in the levels that force you to tilt your device to collect the coins as you go down. That's cool but even more interesting are the mine cart portions. Instead of running, you hop in a cart and have to tilt your device to avoid smashing into stuff.

These new mechanics really shake up the gameplay and help break the monotony of just running along with no end. Sure, you are essentially still doing the same thing, but it feels different enough to keep the game fresh.

Audio & Visuals

The graphics in Temple Run 2 look quite a bit better than the first. The levels have more details, as do the characters. Is it the best looking game on iOS? Certainly not, that title almost surely belongs to Real Racing, but it does look quite good for an endless runner, and it's good to the that the developers took the time and effort to make some visual improvements over the first one, when realistically, they just needed to release a game called Temple Run 2, and it was a surefire success.

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The sound is okay. It's not the kind of game you are going to want to download the soundtrack and listen to when not playing, but it gets the job done and it does not detract from the gameplay experience.

Game Life

The game life in Temple Run 2 is relative. Do you enjoy endless runners? If you do, than there is nearly limitless gameplay to be had in Temple Run 2. There are tons of challenges to complete and power ups to unlock, some of which will take a long past if you don't resort to using in-app purchases.

On top of that, Temple Run 2 adds new characters to unlock, which gives you even more reason to keep coming back to earn more coins.

temple run

Another part of Temple Run 2 that will enhance game life is the social features. If you have friends playing the game, trying to beat their score is a great motivator to keep you coming back for hours on end. I've played at least eight hours of Temple Run 2 already, and I have yet to spend a penny on it, so I really cannot possibly complain about the amount of entertainment I have received from the game.

Conclusion

Temple Run 2 does not rewrite the formula from the original, but it makes enough improvements to make it feel like a relatively fresh and new experience. It adds some cool new gameplay mechanics and plenty of goodies and unlockables to keep you coming back for hours. It's a game that is definitely worth a download and one that is perfect for both quick play sessions and long grinds.