Torchlight II Preview

The Examiner has turned their attention to Runic Games’ Torchlight II in order to provide us with a two-part preview that’s based on their impressions of the game at PAX Prime. From part one:

A unique feature of the Railman is that he builds up charges as he kills monsters, which float around him as small electrical charges. These charges enhance the Railman’s special abilities, and they are discharged when a special ability is activated (which also consumes mana). The more charges the Railman has, the more powerful the enhancement, but the charges will dissipate if they aren’t used quickly enough.

The second class is the Outlander, who is essentially the fast, sneaky rogue-like character. He sports an Arabian look. Because we chose to play the Railman (and couldn’t pry our hands from the mouse and keyboard to restart the game), we didn’t get to see the Outlander in action.

And part two:

Randomized monsters, levels and loot are a core part of the Torchlight II formula, just as it was in Torchlight. Torchlight II, however, features large, outdoor areas that are larger and less linear than the original game’s levels, allowing for more exploration.

And you’ll want to explore more, because Torchlight II also generates randomized events. For example, we stumbled upon a traveler with a wagon being attacked by monsters, so we stepped in to help him. We also found numerous locked chests, which Lefler told us we’d need to find a key to open. (The keys are typically in the care of a boss monster somewhere in the level.)