Stepping back into the golden age of arcade gaming, you stumble upon titles that might have flown under the radar, overshadowed by titans. Shock Troopers: 2nd Squad is one such game. Released by SNK for the Neo-Geo MVS arcade system in 1998, this sequel arrived a couple of years after the beloved original, but it wasn't quite the follow-up many expected.
Instead of building directly on the first game's mechanics, Shock Troopers: 2nd Squad took a different path. It's a distinct run-and-gun experience that, while sharing the genre DNA, offers its own flavor of chaotic action. If you're a fan of pixelated explosions, relentless enemy waves, and dodging bullets like a pro, this game has plenty to offer, especially now with its availability on modern platforms.
What is Shock Troopers: 2nd Squad?
At its core, Shock Troopers: 2nd Squad is a top-down, scrolling shooter where you blast your way through hordes of enemies across various environments. Think Mercs or Commando, but with that distinct, high-quality Neo-Geo pixel art and animation (even if it uses some pre-rendered sprites, a departure from the first).
Released in the twilight years of the Neo-Geo arcade era, it's a product of its time, pushing the hardware with detailed visuals and intense action. While it didn't replace the first Shock Troopers in the hearts of many, it carved out its own identity.
How it Plays: Run 'n' Gun Action with a Twist
The core gameplay loop is classic run-and-gun: move, shoot, dodge, use special weapons. However, Shock Troopers: 2nd Squad introduces some notable differences from its predecessor:
- Fewer Characters: You pick from one of four distinct characters, each with their own stats and special attack. There's no 'team' mode like in the first game.
- Vehicles: A big addition is the ability to hop into vehicles, much like the Metal Slug series. Tanks, motorcycles, and other rideable machines add a new dimension to the combat.
- Branching Paths: A returning feature from the original, you can choose different routes through the levels, adding replayability and allowing you to see different bosses and areas.
- Intensity: The action is fast and often overwhelming, demanding quick reflexes and smart use of your limited bombs.
While the removal of the team system and the change in art style (using pre-rendered sprites) were points of contention for some fans comparing it to the first game, the vehicle sections and branching paths provide unique highlights.
The Roster: Meet the Squad
You get to choose from a small but capable crew:
- Leon: The balanced, default hero type.
- Lulu: Quick and agile.
- Shirley: Packs heavy firepower.
- Alden: A bit slower but tough.
Each character offers a slightly different feel, encouraging multiple playthroughs to see who fits your playstyle best.
Why it's Worth Playing Today
For retro enthusiasts, the appeal is obvious – experiencing a slice of Neo-Geo arcade history. But Shock Troopers: 2nd Squad is more accessible than ever thanks to modern re-releases.
- ACA NEOGEO Series: Hamster Corporation has released
Shock Troopers: 2nd Squadas part of their excellent ACA NEOGEO series on platforms like PlayStation, Xbox, Switch, and PC (via Steam and Microsoft Store). These ports are typically faithful emulations with modern features like save states, online leaderboards, and customizable settings. - Local Co-op: Grab a friend! The game supports local 2-player co-op, which is arguably the best way to experience the chaotic fun of an arcade shooter.
Playing it through these official channels is a great way to enjoy the game without needing original hardware or resorting to emulation (though MAME/FinalBurn Neo were the classic ways back in the day).
The Verdict: Standing Apart
It's true that Shock Troopers: 2nd Squad is often viewed in the shadow of its highly-regarded predecessor. Critics at the time, while acknowledging its quality, often found it less compelling than the original.
However, when judged on its own merits, Shock Troopers: 2nd Squad is a solid, challenging, and fun run-and-gun game. The vehicle sections are a blast, the branching paths add depth, and the pure arcade action is satisfying. If you approach it as a distinct title rather than a direct upgrade, you'll likely find a lot to enjoy. It's a great example of the variety and quality the Neo-Geo system offered.
Where to Find It
Look for Shock Troopers: 2nd Squad under the ACA NEOGEO banner on digital storefronts like:
It's readily available and usually quite affordable, making it easy to add this piece of SNK history to your digital library.
FAQ
Q: Is Shock Troopers: 2nd Squad related to the first Shock Troopers? A: Yes, it's a sequel, but it features different characters and mechanics (like vehicles and no team mode), making it feel quite distinct from the original.
Q: How many players does Shock Troopers: 2nd Squad support? A: The game supports up to 2 players via local co-op.
Q: Where can I play Shock Troopers: 2nd Squad today? A: It's widely available as part of the ACA NEOGEO series on modern digital platforms like PlayStation, Xbox, Switch, and PC (Steam, Microsoft Store).
Q: Is Shock Troopers: 2nd Squad better than the first game?
A: This is subjective! Many fans prefer the original, but 2nd Squad offers a different experience with its vehicles and branching paths. It's best to try both and decide for yourself!
Final Thoughts
Shock Troopers: 2nd Squad might not be the most famous game in the Neo-Geo library, but it's a worthwhile entry for any fan of arcade action. Its challenging gameplay, unique features, and availability on modern systems make it easy to recommend. Give it a shot – you might just discover a new favorite run-and-gun gem.
