Torchlight II

Torchlight II is a charming action RPG that has aged but remains a beloved title for fans of the genre. Players appreciate its lightweight system requirements and fun, casual gameplay, making it accessible for long sessions or background play. The game offers extensive loot, a variety of skills, and a colorful, cute art style that many find cozy and nostalgic. Multiplayer is a key feature, though some users face connectivity issues, often resolved through LAN or third-party tools like Hamachi. Despite some dated UI elements and design quirks, the game provides a solid experience, especially when modded.

However, criticisms include repetitive and padded maps, lack of skill synergy, and a simplistic difficulty scaling that mostly increases enemy health rather than challenge. Some players find the skill system and class balance lacking depth, with limited skill refund options. The multiplayer experience is hindered by server shutdowns and connectivity problems, which impact online playability. Overall, it’s recommended as a budget-friendly alternative to more modern ARPGs, particularly for cooperative play and nostalgia.

Highlights

Players praise Torchlight II for its engaging loot system, varied and colorful environments, and charming art style. The game’s lightweight design allows it to run smoothly on modest hardware. Multiplayer co-op is a highlight, enabling fun sessions with friends, and the New Game Plus mode adds replay value. The modding community enhances gameplay, offering customization that keeps the experience fresh. Fans appreciate the casual, accessible gameplay loop and the nostalgic feel reminiscent of classic ARPGs like Gauntlet and Diablo.

Criticisms

Common criticisms focus on the game’s dated UI and simplistic difficulty scaling, which often results in longer fights rather than increased challenge. Some players find the skill system disjointed, with limited synergy and frustrating skill point refund restrictions. Multiplayer connectivity issues and server shutdowns have negatively impacted the online experience. Additionally, maps and side quests can feel padded, and the overall pacing sometimes drags. Hardcore mode is considered unfair by some due to unexpected one-shot deaths, and mod limits are seen as arbitrary.