Rayman; Raving Rabbids 2

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Rabbids have taken over the world. Just accept it. You can't overcome the mutated bunnies' numbers or their sheer stupidity. You just have to deal with them, one activity at a time. But no worries – Rayman Raving Rabbids 2 is a fun sequel with fifty brand new mini-games, online functionality through the Wi-Fi Connection, a dandy customization feature and, of course, lovable (albeit stupid) Rabbids. Once you get past its little shortcomings, you'll party with them in no time.

Rather than stick Rayman back into the doldrums of a crowded coliseum, Ubisoft places him in a "world tour" of sorts, dealing with the cranium-challenged creatures at every turn. No matter where he goes – Asia, Europe, the good ol' USA – they're there. Like the first Rabbids, part two features several mini-games to play through. The activities in these mini-games vary. Some pay homage to classic films, like a Singin' In the Rain dance number. Others simply force the limbless hero to shoot every Rabbid in sight, with the help of his trusty plunger gun.

Most of these mini-games play wonderfully, whether you're on your own or teaming up with up to three of your friends in multiplayer. With the successful completion of each game, your score tallies up and you earn unlockable items. These go right into the game's customization shop, where you can dress up Rayman and the Rabbids any way you please. We think the Assassin's Creed cloak is a nice touch, although the cross-dressing stuff is a little over-the-top.

Rayman; Raving Rabbids 2

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Like the first game, Rabbids 2 has a colorful, humorous design, with Rayman and his newfound Rabbid pals animating beautifully. You're sure to find several favorite Rabbids throughout each mini-game, such as the snake charmer or the Fred Astaire wannabe. The backdrops look great, especially during the shooting and Spider-Rabbid segments. Some look glued-on, but overall they're quite faithful to their international locales. The plaza is a fun place to visit, too, a virtual lobby filled with newly acquired mini-games.

Sound consists mostly of Rabbid jabber. You'll hear them scream, curse, blabber and talk in their own language, incomprehensible but hilarious; It's a real treat to hear them get down with James Brown's "Papa's Got a Brand New Bag". The rest of the in-game music is mostly recycled from the first game, but works well.

Rayman; Raving Rabbids 2

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Rabbids 2 also features online functionality. The game utilizes the Wi-Fi Connection with leaderboards, so you can compare your score with others. This is a great little addition to the series, adding an aura of competitiveness. Still, we have to wonder why Ubisoft didn't go the extra mile with complete online play.

While we still yearn for Rayman to return to his platforming roots, Raving Rabbids 2 is an amusing comic romp. The graphics and sound have Rabbid influence aplenty; the online leaderboards are a sure-fire hit; and the gameplay will win you over with its straightforward charm. Don't hesitate to let them take over your next holiday shindig.