Gauntlet II

About

Gauntlet II is a sequel that tightens and expands the dungeon-crawling action of its predecessor. Up to four players can team up in co-op or competitive modes, now free to pick the same character types but区分 by color. The top-down maze still demands dodging monsters and collecting keys, but level layouts now rotate in 90-degree increments, reshaping the map mid-game. A new "It" enemy turns players into a beacon for all foes until they tag another player or reach the exit, adding chaotic chase mechanics. Weapons can bounce off walls with a special pickup, and hazards like acid pools deal instant damage. The sequel's upgrades include secret rooms unlocked by solving level-specific riddles ("Don’t be fooled" hints at finding the real exit first). Inside these, you’ll find stat-boosting potions and armor. The rotating maps and trickery like invisible walls or morphing "magic walls" keep each run fresh. Released in 1986, this version introduced the now-iconic Baroque-inspired theme tune that would define the series. Its mix of accessibility and clever twists made it a staple in arcades and home systems from the NES to the Amiga.