Metal Max 2 is a turn-based RPG developed by Crea-Tech and published by Data East for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System on March 5, 1993. As the second entry in the Metal Max series, it builds on the first game’s open, non-linear design, letting players freely choose their travel routes and quest order.
The game features a turn-based combat system, where players can fight on foot or pilot customizable tanks. The tank system is greatly expanded: players can modify chassis and engines, plus customize weapons, armor, and C-units to fit their playstyle. For on-foot combat, a new AI-controlled War Dog character is added. It has exclusive gear, cannot ride tanks, and acts on instinct in battle, adding unpredictability and fun. The in-game menu commands can also be fully customized to player preferences.
Compared to its predecessor, the main story is more prominent while retaining high freedom, following the protagonist’s revenge against a raider organization and revealing a larger, more detailed world. The audiovisual quality is also drastically improved: the art style matches the desolate setting perfectly, and the soundtrack composed by Satoshi Kadokura boosts the game’s emotional impact.