Summary
- Release Year: 1990
- Genres: Puzzle, Strategy
- Platforms: Apple IIGS, DOS, PC (Microsoft Windows), Sega Mega Drive/Genesis, Super Nintendo Entertainment System, Wii
- Developers: Activision
- Publishers: Sega of America
Shanghai II: Dragon’s Eye (1990)
Shanghai II: Dragon’s Eye is a tile-matching puzzle game developed and published by Activision for the Amiga, Atari ST, Commodore 64, DOS, and Macintosh in 1990. It is the sequel to the 1986 game Shanghai, and introduces several new features, including 8 different tile sets, 12 patterns based on the animals of the Chinese zodiac, and a layout editor for creating custom patterns.
Gameplay
The goal of Shanghai II is to remove all of the Mahjong tiles from the game board by matching them in pairs. Tiles can be matched if they are of the same type and are not blocked by other tiles. To remove a pair of tiles, simply click on them in succession.
There are 8 different tile sets to choose from in Shanghai II, each with its own unique look and feel. The 12 patterns based on the animals of the Chinese zodiac add variety to the gameplay, and the layout editor allows players to create their own custom patterns.
In addition to the standard Shanghai game mode, Shanghai II also features “Dragon’s Eye,” a 2-player variant. In Dragon’s Eye, players take turns adding and removing tiles from a small field. One player attempts to remove all of the tiles, while the other player tries to position tiles to make this impossible.
Graphics and Sound
Shanghai II features beautiful graphics and a catchy soundtrack. The tiles are rendered in high detail, and the backgrounds are colorful and vibrant. The music is also excellent, and helps to create a relaxing and enjoyable atmosphere.
Reception
Shanghai II was a critical and commercial success. It was praised for its addictive gameplay, beautiful graphics, and variety of game modes. The game was also a hit with reviewers, who praised its challenge and replayability.
Legacy
Shanghai II is considered to be one of the best tile-matching puzzle games ever made. It has been ported to numerous platforms over the years, and remains popular with fans of the genre. The game’s success has also spawned several sequels and spin-offs, including Shanghai III, Shanghai Dynasty, and Shanghai: Ultimate Journey.
Tips for Playing Shanghai II
- Look for exposed tiles. Tiles that are not blocked by other tiles are easier to match.
- Plan your moves ahead. Don’t just remove tiles randomly. Take a few seconds to look at the board and plan your next move.
- Use the undo button. If you make a mistake, don’t be afraid to use the undo button.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment. There is no one right way to play Shanghai II. Experiment with different tile sets, patterns, and strategies to find what works best for you.
Conclusion
Shanghai II: Dragon’s Eye is a classic tile-matching puzzle game that is still enjoyed by fans of the genre today. With its beautiful graphics, catchy soundtrack, and variety of game modes, Shanghai II is a must-play for anyone who enjoys puzzle games.
Review Score
8.5/10
