What is Dig Dug 2?
Dig Dug 2 is an arcade game where the protagonist, Taizo Hori, remains above ground, unlike the original Dig Dug. The game introduces new mechanics with the dual-action air pump, which serves two purposes: blowing up enemies and drilling faults in the island to break sections away into the sea. This strategic addition allows players to eliminate enemies either directly by inflating them or indirectly by severing parts of the island.
How to play Dig Dug 2
- Gameplay Overview:
- In Dig Dug 2, Taizo navigates small islands, utilizing the drill and air pump to manipulate the environment and enemies. As he drills, he creates fault lines. Connecting these lines will cause portions of the island to sink into the sea, taking any enemies standing on them.
- The game becomes progressively challenging as the island shrinks and enemies become more aggressive. Players need to strategically plan their movements to avoid being cornered by Pookas or Fygars.
- Levels:
Each stage has its island layout, typically containing holes and faults. As the levels progress, the islands take on different shapes, such as rectangles, hourglasses, and abstract letters, offering various opportunities for players to outsmart enemies. Here's a breakdown of some key stages:
- Level 1: A rectangular island with the most faults in the corners. Bonus item: turnip.
- Level 5: A challenging level with a narrow path. Bonus item: tomato.
- Level 7: Shaped like the letter N, with the watermelon bonus worth 2,000 points.
- Level 10: Use a large fault in the middle to eliminate enemies. Bonus: bananas worth 4,000 points.
- Key Features:
- Air Pump: Taizo uses his air pump both to inflate enemies and to drill faults into the ground. Connecting faults can cause sections of the island to fall into the water, taking enemies with it.
- Enemies: Familiar foes from the original game return: Pookas, which resemble tomatoes, and Fygars, green dragons that breathe fire.
- Bonus Icons: Players can collect food items like pineapples, watermelons, grapes, and large drink cups, each providing various points.
- Scoring System: Points are earned by destroying parts of the island or killing enemies. Extra lives are awarded at specific score thresholds, starting at 30,000 points.
- Strategy:
- To excel, players must use the air pump effectively, balancing between inflating enemies and drilling faults. As the island shrinks, space becomes limited, and strategic thinking is essential to avoid being trapped.
Dig Dug 2 blends familiar gameplay mechanics with new environmental strategies, providing a fresh take on the original Dig Dug formula.
