This review is going to be similar to this game: short and sweet. Baezult 2 doesn't do anything particularly original; but within its simple parameters it really excels. I think I picked this up as part of a bundle at some point and I think it only cost me around 50 cents. On Steam it's $5, but I'm sure it's regularly at half price or less. So when I installed it I didn't have particularly high expectations, but I was pleasantly surprised.

This game is a simple platformer. The appearance and gameplay are similar to La Mulana or Spelunky; you're a little archaeologist dude down in some underground tombs, trying to find the treasure or whatever. The gameplay consists of platforming and puzzles and it's tough. But the difficulty was superbly balanced, not too easy or hard, it hit the right spot exactly and gradually turned up the heat. The areas are filled with spike pits, unexpected traps and one-hit kills, so you die a lot; but respawns are instant, checkpoints are regular and there's no punishment for death. Your character can jump, shoot and throw dynamite (bullets and dynamite are limited). Often the levels are timed and require crazy pixel-perfect platforming, and it's really satisfying to complete them (especially when the drama is heightened by a rolling boulder or a wave of lava biting at your heels).

Aside from this, the rest of the game is on point. The presentation is simple pixel graphics: neat, professional and appealing, with nice dynamic lighting and occasional set pieces. The controls feel tight and comfortable, perfect for the precision required. The game is built for keyboard controls (no native controller support) but I mapped my controller and used that (with external software). The spooky egyptian music fits the theme well, and everything else works find (windowed, multiple resolutions and full screen work without any hiccups).

Ultimately this game isn't revolutionary but I found myself totally hooked on it and loved it. I might have to hunt down Baezult 1. I completed the game in a little over 2 hours and that was good also; it didn't overstay its welcome. I would say this is worth the $5 price tag, and even better on sale. Definitely recommended for people who like tricky platformers, though it might be too easy for fans of the IWBTG series.