- Release Year: 2012
- Platforms: Windows
- Publisher: Interplay Entertainment Corp.
- Developer: Overhaul Games
- Genre: Action
- Perspective: 1st-person, Behind view
- Game Mode: Single-player
- Gameplay: Jetpack, Shooter
- Setting: Futuristic, Sci-fi
- Average Score: 70/100
Description
MDK 2 HD is a remastered version of the classic 2000 shooter MDK 2, featuring high-definition graphics, remastered music, and three difficulty levels. The game follows the adventures of a robotic dog, a cigar-smoking gun-toting hero, and a genius scientist as they battle an alien invasion with a mix of action, puzzles, and humor in a sci-fi setting.
Gameplay Videos
MDK 2 HD Mods
MDK 2 HD Guides & Walkthroughs
MDK 2 HD Reviews & Reception
metacritic.com (73/100): MDK2 HD is a prime example of how a game can be challenging and a lot of fun at the same time.
rockpapershotgun.com : This HD remake of a third-person classic is as affectionate as it is impressive.
steambase.io (65/100): MDK2 HD has achieved a Steambase Player Score of 65 / 100, giving it a rating of Mixed.
gameunder.net : MDK2 on the other hand was something of a disappointment: the upgraded graphics were, as far as I was concerned, a slight downgrade.
gamevortex.com (72/100): MDK2 HD brings the classic first-person shooter to a new audience with upgraded graphics, but the same strange gameplay.
MDK 2 HD Cheats & Codes
PC
Press the tilde (~) key to open the console, then type the command and press Enter.
| Code | Effect |
|---|---|
| GodDebugToggle() | God mode |
| mdkGobSetDamageFilter(mdkGetPlayerGob(),0) | God mode |
| mdkNewGame(1,12) | Skip to stage 1 |
| mdkNewGame(2,12) | Skip to stage 2 |
| mdkNewGame(3,12) | Skip to stage 3 |
| mdkNewGame(4,12) | Skip to stage 4 |
| mdkNewGame(5,11) | Skip to stage 5 |
| mdkNewGame(6,8) | Skip to stage 6 |
| mdkNewGame(7,11) | Skip to stage 7 |
| mdkNewGame(8,8) | Skip to stage 8 |
| mdkNewGame(9,13) | Skip to stage 9 |
| mdkNewGame(10,7) | Skip to stage 10 |
| mdkNewGame(12,1) | Skip to stage 10 with Doc |
| mdkNewGame(11,1) | Skip to stage 10 with Max |
DC
Varies by code: Entered at main menu, while paused, or during gameplay.
| Code | Effect |
|---|---|
| Hold L+R, press A, B, A, B | Crazy Camera Views |
| Hold L+R, press Up, Down, Right, Left, A, Y, B, X, X+Start | Mixed Character |
| Press X+Y simultaneously (while paused) | Full Screen Pause |
| Hold L+R, press B, A, B, A (while paused) | Alternate Camera Angles |
| Press Left and Y together (while paused) | Detached Camera |
| Press [L], [R], [Left], [A] (as Doctor Hawkins) | Fart sounds |
| Hold [L] and [R], press [X], [X], [Y], [X] (at main menu) | Kurt in Boxer Shorts |
PS2
Varies by code: Entered at main menu, while paused, or during gameplay.
| Code | Effect |
|---|---|
| Hold L2 and R2, press square, square, triangle, square (at main menu) | Kurt in Boxer Shorts |
| Hold L2+R2, press X, O, X, O (while paused) | Bad Camera |
| Hold L2+R2, press Up, Down, Right, Left, X, Triangle, O, Square, Square (while paused) | Mixed Character |
| Hold R2, press up four times (as Max) | Slow Motion mode |
| Hold L2 and R2, press up, up, down, down, L, L, R, R, square, triangle, square, triangle, select (while paused) | Invincibility |
| Hold L1 and R1 (while paused) | Matrix Camera |
| Hold L2 and R2, press circle, X, circle, X (while paused) | Race Car Camera |
| Hold L2 and R2, press circle, X, circle, triangle (while paused) | Stationary Camera |
MDK 2 HD: Review
Introduction
MDK 2 HD is a remastered gem from the video game pantheon, offering a unique blend of action, platforming, and puzzle elements wrapped in a humorous sci-fi narrative. This 2012 HD re-release breathes new life into the 2000 classic MDK 2, featuring high-definition visuals, remastered audio, and updated gameplay options. The trio of playable characters—Kurt, Hawkins, and Max—each bring distinct playstyles, ensuring a dynamic and captivating experience from start to finish.
Development History & Context
Originally developed by BioWare in 2000, MDK 2 set the stage for its HD remaster by Overhaul Games. The development team’s mission was to preserve the game’s core essence while enhancing the audiovisual experience. Utilizing an overhauled graphics engine, high-definition models and textures, and remastered music tracks, MDK 2 HD strides into the modern era while honoring the original vision. This remaster is particularly notable for introducing three difficulty levels previously exclusive to the PlayStation 2 version, broadening its accessibility and appeal to new audiences.
Narrative & Thematic Deep Dive
The plot resumes where the first MDK left off. Earth’s celebrated heroes—Kurt Hectic, Dr. Fluke Hawkins, and Max—their victory short-lived, must confront a new alien threat led by Shwang Shwing and ultimately Emperor Zizzy Ballooba. The narrative is a wild ride through intergalactic battles, sci-fi settings, and comic-relief-laced dialogues. Key themes of heroism, unlikely friendships, and humanity’s resilience against extraterrestrial invaders permeate the story. Each character’s distinct personality and motivation (Kurt’s reluctant heroism, Hawkins’ eccentric genius, Max’s cigar-chomping tough guy act) add depth and charm to the narrative.
Gameplay Mechanics & Systems
MDK 2 HD offers a rich gameplay experience through its three protagonists. The core loop combines third-person shooting, platform traversal, and puzzle solving, each character offering unique approaches:
- Kurt Hectic: Focuses on precision shooting with his sniper rifle and chain gun. His Ribbon Chute allows for graceful gliding jumps,/read conducive to platforming and sniping challenges.
- Max: The bruiser with quad-wielding capabilities. Max’s levels are action-packed, emphasizing frenetic gunplay and utility of his jetpack. His health bar is robust, allowing for more aggressive play.
- Dr. Hawkins: The puzzle master. Combining items to create gadgets (like magnetic boots or plutonium toasters) and navigating platforming challenges with physics-based solutions defines his playstyle.
Their individual strengths are interwoven across 10 levels, requiring players to adapt and leverage each character’s skills effectively. Combat systems include weapon variety (grenades, sandbags, mortars) and situational strategies (using decoys to distract enemies). The UI is intuitive yet informative, displaying health, ammo, items, and character-specific features like Max’s jetpack fuel.
World-Building, Art & Sound
The game’s universe is a colorful tapestry of futuristic Earth, space stations, and alien worlds. The original’s retro-futuristic aesthetic gains vibrancy in HD, with enhanced textures and lighting effects. Character models are now high-poly, yet retain their iconic appearances.
The sound design impresses with crisp sound effects (whirring drones, explosive impacts) and memorable voice acting. The soundtrack is a mix of hard-hitting techno and atmospheric orchestral pieces, perfectly complementing the on-screen action. Each character’s unique musical motif enhances immersion (e.g., Kurt’s heroic themes, Max’s rock-infused tunes, Hawkins’ eccentric orchestration).
Reception & Legacy
Upon release, MDK 2 HD received mixed to positive reviews. Critics praised its visuals, comical writing, and gameplay variety but noted some dated elements (platforming difficulty, control schemes) and technical issues. However, its cult following and unique blend of genres have kept it relevant. The game influenced later action-adventure titles with its multimedia storytelling and character-driven gameplay.
Conclusion
MDK 2 HD is a must-play for those seeking a nostalgic yet fresh take on the cult classic. Its combination of action, platforming, and puzzle elements with humor and charm remains unmatched. Although some elements feel dated, the core gameplay and narrative strengths ensure a memorable experience. Whether you’re a returning fan or new player, MDK 2 HD delivers an epic adventure that transcends time.