For many, this sequel marked the true beginning of the franchise. For me, it marks a departure, and not necessarily for the better. It is certainly more polished and more challenging with a smoother difficulty curve. But the literal roller coaster stages are the lone relics that preserve the kinetic thrill of the original. And it's SO prescriptive. Bonus stages no longer feel like secrets; they're tucked-just-out-of-sight showstoppers begging to be completed. Tell-tale signs, tutorials, slow-motion exits that grind the pace to a halt – bonus rooms are treated with an undeserved religious fervor in DKC2.