LEGO Indiana Jones 2: The Adventure Continues Review

LEGO Indiana Jones 2: The Adventure Continues, developed by TT Games and published by LucasArts and Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment, swung onto the Nintendo Wii in 2009. This sequel aimed to expand upon the original’s formula by not only adapting *Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull* but also offering redesigned levels for the first three films, along with new mechanics and an ambitious hub world structure. This LEGO Indy 2 Wii review explores its expanded scope and how it fares on Nintendo’s motion-controlled console.

Gameplay: Open Hubs and Collaborative Action

LEGO Indiana Jones 2 maintains the core LEGO gameplay loop: smash environmental objects, collect studs, build contraptions, and solve light puzzles using the unique character abilities of the vast roster. The game’s primary departure from its predecessor is its multi-hub world design. Instead of a single central hub, each film (and the “Crystal Skull” content) has its own expansive hub, filled with distinct levels, side quests, and collectibles. This offers a more open-ended approach to exploration.

The game includes the familiar whip-cracking action of Indy, alongside new abilities for characters like Mutt Williams. Vehicle sections are significantly expanded and improved, feeling more integrated into the gameplay. The Wii controls are well-implemented, with motion controls used for whipping, aiming, and other interactive elements, which adds to the tactile fun. The seamless drop-in/drop-out 2-player local co-op multiplayer remains a major highlight, perfectly suited for the Wii’s accessible nature. Friends and family can easily team up, utilizing character synergies to overcome obstacles and fight enemies.

• Innovative multi-hub world design for expanded exploration
• Covers all four Indiana Jones films, with redesigned levels
• Enhanced vehicle sections and character abilities
• Responsive Wii motion controls for interactive gameplay
• Excellent 2-player local co-op for family-friendly fun

Story and Setting: Four Films, One Brick Adventure

The narrative of LEGO Indiana Jones 2 retells the events of *Raiders of the Lost Ark*, *Temple of Doom*, *The Last Crusade*, and prominently, *Kingdom of the Crystal Skull*. Each film receives dedicated levels within its own hub, allowing players to jump between the storylines.

As with all LEGO games, the storytelling is purely visual, relying on slapstick humor, exaggerated character animations, and clever sight gags to convey the plot. This silent comedy approach (common in early LEGO titles) often results in genuinely laugh-out-loud moments, making it a faithful yet lighthearted tribute to the Indiana Jones films. The variety of settings, from jungles and tombs to South American ruins, keeps the visual landscape fresh.

Graphics and Sound: Wii’s Charming Presentation

Visually, LEGO Indiana Jones 2 on the Wii maintains the series’ charming aesthetic. The graphics feature the distinct LEGO brick models for characters and environments, infused with vibrant colors and fluid animations. While the Wii’s hardware limitations are evident compared to its contemporary consoles, TT Games masterfully utilizes the system to deliver a visually appealing and consistent experience.

The sound design is a major strength, featuring John Williams’ iconic soundtrack from the films, which instantly transports players into the adventurous mood. The sound effects for whip cracks, brick smashing, and character grunts are all spot-on, contributing greatly to the game’s authentic and enjoyable atmosphere.

Replayability: A Treasure Trove for Completionists

LEGO Indiana Jones 2 offers immense replayability. Beyond the main story missions, each level can be revisited in Free Play mode, allowing players to utilize unlocked characters with different abilities to uncover hidden areas, Minikits, Red Bricks, and character tokens. The expansive hub worlds themselves are filled with dozens of side quests, challenges, and puzzles, ensuring hundreds of hours of content for dedicated players and artifact hunting enthusiasts.

Is LEGO Indiana Jones 2: The Adventure Continues on Wii Worth Playing Today?

Absolutely. For retro gaming enthusiasts, fans of Indiana Jones, or anyone looking for a delightful and genuinely fun family-friendly action-adventure game, LEGO Indy 2 Wii is a fantastic choice. Its expanded content, unique hub world design, charming humor, and engaging co-op gameplay offer an endlessly enjoyable and rewarding experience. It’s a true classic Wii game that continues to deliver whip-cracking adventures on the Nintendo Wii.