Makeruna! Makendou 2: Kimero Youkai Souri is a fascinating departure from its predecessor, ditching the side-scrolling action of Kendo Rage for a dedicated one-on-one fighting experience. Released exclusively in Japan in 1995, it captures the late-era Super Famicom aesthetic with vibrant, high-quality sprites and an unapologetically zany anime sense of humor. Players control Hikari, the younger sister of the original protagonist, as she battles through a roster of bizarre Youkai and supernatural entities. While the shift in genre might have alienated some fans of the original’s platforming, the game stands as a competent, if niche, entry in the crowded 16-bit fighting market.
Mechanically, the game doesn't reinvent the wheel, but it offers a surprisingly fluid combat system for a console title of this pedigree. Each character utilizes a "Magic" or "Soul" meter that allows for powerful special attacks, adding a layer of resource management to the typical punch-and-kick routine. The hit detection is remarkably solid, and the speed of combat feels more responsive than many of the budget fighters that flooded the system during this period. It lacks the deep complexity of Capcom or SNK’s flagship titles, yet it compensates with pure personality and creative character designs that range from the cute to the grotesque.
Visually, the title pushes the SNES hardware with detailed backgrounds and large character portraits that reflect the peak of the 16-bit era. The soundtrack is equally impressive, featuring upbeat J-pop inspired tracks that perfectly complement the chaotic on-screen action. Despite being a high-quality production, it remains one of those "lost" classics that never made its way to Western shores, largely due to its eccentric Japanese themes.
