Although not as open-ended as the first, B&W2 is a must-have for all gamers.
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Black and White 2
(2005, Video Games - Real Time Strategy (RTS), Rated T, Play it on: Windows)
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Is it age appropriate?
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Not age appropriate for kids under 13, age appropriate for kids over 16; suggested age 13. -
Is it any good?
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Common Sense says
Teens: Skip this frustrating and limited sequel.
Why We Rated This 
for Ages 13–16
The good stuff
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Educational value:
What to watch out for
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What Parents Need to Know
This review of Black and White 2 was written by Jeremy Gieske
Parents need to know that this game allows players to win through either peaceful or violent methods. Battles can ensue, and players are allowed to crush, burn, and electrocute; they can also train their magical creature by hitting and slapping them. Some crude humor about defecation, a woman gives birth complete with sounds effects, etc. The game is far from historically accurate, but players will learn something about strategy.
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More on Black and White 2
What’s the Story?
As in the first game, players in BLACK AND WHITE 2 become gods, complete with all the responsibilities and powers. The opening sequence throws historical accuracy to the side showing Aztecs overrunning the players' people, the Greeks. Players must use their godly powers to restore their people to glory -- fighting additional forces such as the Norse and the Japanese along the way. Unlike most real-time strategy (RTS) games, the choice of being good and evil is central to the game: To be a good god, players build prestige, convincing rival cities to join them; alternately, players can assemble armies and take opposing by force.
At the start of the game, players choose a giant magical creature to help them rule. By either petting or hitting the creature during the game, players train the creature into a peaceful helper or a fierce fighter.
CloseIs It Any Good?
Black and White 2 provides a fun premise and a unique concept, but it doesn't offer the kind of quality provided by the successful first installment. There are no enemy gods. Instead, the most powerful foe is the enemy's creature, which can be fairly easily dispatched. In fact, it is almost impossible to lose, with enemy AI barely more intelligent than the rocks players can use to crush armies.
The design is also bad: Menus are buried and controls are clumsy. Players may get frustrated performing simple tasks, like picking up an individual villager. Finally, replay is limited -- the game provides no multiplayer options. Also, only the nine campaign levels can be replayed, and once players complete the game, they don't have the option to go back to a particular level.
ClosePublisher’s Details
Released on 10/4/2005, price $39.99, not online enabled
ESRB rating: T (for Crude Humor, Use of Alcohol, Violence)
ESRB rating: T (for Crude Humor, Use of Alcohol, Violence)
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- I rate this title on for age 2 and give it
One of the greatest & most imaginative games to date
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