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The most appealing aspect of Golden Axe - and its reincarnation for that matter - is the way that the scrapping works. There's none of this poncing around wrestling with the joypad and moving it in the right direction to execute the desired manoeuvre malarkey, oh no. Duffing up the Dark Guild's dudes is simply a matter of being in the right place at the right time and frantically pressing a button. All the hip moves, such as kicking an opponent in the teeth, happen automatically. It is limited, but the fighting feels fine so I'm not complaining.

What I will moan about though is how similar Golden Axe II is to the original Golden Axe in terms of playability. The opponents encountered by and large don't look the same as those in Golden Axe, but there's sod all difference in their behaviour and positioning within the five short scrolling levels. It's a bit of a cheek, I feel, to simply redecorate a piece of software and stick a 'II' on the end.

There is a slight improvement in one department - and that's the magic (the power of which is improved by collecting tokens released by mystical figures who appear during and at the end of the levels). Golden Axe II's options allow play to progress with either Normal or Special magic mode in force. When the magic button is pressed in Normal mode, a spell is automatically cast, its power determined by the on-screen magic-o-meter. In Special mode however, the spell's strength increases when the magic button is depressed and is cast at the magic-o-meter strength shown when it's released. This feature would have been welcome in Golden Axe, but its appearance in this samey sequel isn't enough to make a significant difference.

So, to conclude: don't bother with Golden Axe II if you own the original Golden Axe. If, on the other hand, you don't own Golden Axe but you do fancy a riotous time, get Golden Axe II instead.

1. There are dozens of great fighting manoeuvres to use, and the non-stop beat-'em-down action is easy - and enjoyable! - to get to grips with.
2. The look, feel and sound generate a quality arcade feel.

1. There are only five short levels to conquer.
2. It may have looked slightly different - but it's all been seen before.

Golden Axe II is a well-rounded slice of arcade-quality rucking action, with far-out fighting moves, large colourful visuals and slick spot effects - just like its predecessor. And that's its biggest flaw; it's just like its predecessor.

It's a cracking purchase in its own right but a worthless sequel. Golden Axe owners, you have been warned.