Time Crisis II brings the cult arcade home with simultaneous two-player. Frantic action, stylish scenarios and Hollywood vibe. A gun shooter benchmark for duos.
Your verdict
Category
Rail Shooter2 players16+
Co-op
Description
A Namco rail shooter released in 2001, the second main Time Crisis franchise entry. Agents Keith Martin and Robert Baxter face the Neodyne terrorist organization through five stages on a fictional tropical island. Signature dynamic cover mechanics, local cooperative mode, mandatory GunCon. PS2 adaptation of the 1997 arcade and major franchise entry on the console.
Time Crisis II review
4/5
Art direction
★★★★★
"Striking"
3/5
Music
★★★★★
"Memorable"
2/5
Story
★★★★★
"Classic"
Gameplay
"Solid"
Fun
"From the very first seconds"
Gun in hand, you hide then pop out to blast waves of enemies before ducking back with a flick: this system makes every volley breathless and tactical. The frantic pace and the thrill of the dodge deliver an instant adrenaline surge, ideal for two. Spectacular, snappy and readable, a light-gun classic that weds reflex and composure.
The standard Japanese run of Time Crisis II without the gun, the local pressing of Namco's first PS2 rail shooter in its native language, a little less widespread than the Western editions. It appeals to those already owning a GunCon 2 wanting the Japanese packaging of the software, closest to the original arcade. Its interest lies in this regional authenticity rather than sharp scarcity, a natural complement to a light-gun set.
Better with friends
A benchmark two-player on-rails shooter, where you duck into cover and pop out to blast enemy waves in a snappy choreography. The cooperation shines in sync: covering your partner while they reload and alternating fire creates a real squad dynamic. A proper gun helps you fully feel it, but the shared energy of two shooters makes every level a galvanizing challenge to restart.
Is Time Crisis II still worth playing in 2026?
Released in 2001 on PS2, Namco's project brings the famous arcade light gun shooter to the console, built on the virtual pedal system that lets you take cover then pop out to aim and reload. The nervousness of the gunfights, the spectacular staging and the two player split screen cooperative mode capture the spirit of the cabinet. Compatible with the GunCon light gun, it offers an authentic arcade experience at home. The short length, typical of the genre, and the dependence on the peripheral limit access today. A classic of the rail shooter, recommended for fans of skill shooting and of two player play.
