Bionic Commando Rearmed 2 revealed, leaps into 2011

The Capcom news keeps rolling out this morning - in addition toMarvel vs Capcom 3, we also have a sequel to one of 2008's best games. Bionic Commando Rearmed 2 is a direct follow-up to the XBLA/PSN retro-remake, and looks to follow the same general gameplay pattern as its predecessor. In other words, hard-as-hell platforming, slick graphics and a soundtrack that's almost too good to be true.

Developed by Fat Shark, Rearmed 2 will land in Q1 2011 and sporta handful ofchangesfrom the original,most notablythe ability to jump. If you recall, the "bit" in the original game was the fact that you had to use the bionic arm to swing through each level instead ofjumping.The heft of the arm prevented you from leaping, which meant all sorts of creative platforming puzzles and brain-teasing bosses. We're very eager to see how jumping affects the experience, both while running through levels and tackling the sure-to-be ruthless bosses.

Rearmed 2 is interesting in that it's not based on any NES or arcade game. Instead, it's a sequel that employs the same structure, sound and feel of a game developed in the '80s (plus all the modern-day perks like physics, 1080p and online leaderboards).

There's precious little else to say, save the list of bullet points spelled out in the press release - 2-player co-op is back, the bionic arm will have new abilities and the cutscene art is from Massive Black, who previously worked on Infamous, BioShock 2 and God of War III.

To be perfectly honest, Rearmed was my favorite game of 2008 (anyone rememberthis little video?) and the prospect of a sequel has got me pumped. It's a little odd the developers of the first Rearmed, who have since formed their own Might & Delight studio, aren't helming the second one. Not really cause for concern, but it is worth noting.

Expect more during E3 (June 15-17 2010).