Nanostray 2

 DS
Metascore
75

Generally favorable reviews - based on 23 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 17 out of 23
  2. Mixed: 6 out of 23
  3. Negative: 0 out of 23
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  1. Kombo
    85
    The shooter has been a genre in decline since 3D gaming became the standard, but games like Nanostray 2 are shining examples of why this type of game needs to kept alive.
  2. Game Chronicles
    82
    Nanostray 2 has shattered my ego and destroyed my confidence as a gamer, at least on the DS and in this genre. The staggering difficulty and blazing visuals may overwhelm the casual gamer, but anyone who takes the time to master the frantic gameplay model and memorize every level and every enemy wave and boss pattern will find a deep, strategic, and somewhat oppressive shooter.
  3. IGN
    81
    If you're a DS-owning shooter fan, Nanostray 2 is a must buy. Not only is it a perfectly able shmup, it's also the only game in town. It's not inventive enough to catch the attention of the rest of the world, though.
  5. Da Gameboyz
    81
    Nanostray 2 is great follow-up to the original DS title.
  6. GamePro
    80
    Nanostray 2 will definitely please hardcore arcade shooter fans, but the increased difficulty may narrow the game's mainstream appeal. [Mar 2008, p.86]
  7. GamesRadar+
    80
    Unrelenting difficulty aside, Nanostray 2 for the Nintendo DS is a top-notch shoot-'em-up that will give you your money's worth.
  8. GameDaily
    80
    Just make sure you bring lots of patience along with your trigger finger.
  9. Hardcore Gamer
    80
    Traditionally, games that needed to carve out a niche for themselves within the crowded shooter genre have done so by introducing a new gimmick. Nanostray 2 relies instead on pure polish.
  10. GameSpot
    80
    Nanostray 2 is a dyed-in-the-wool shoot-'em-up that offers great action in a shiny, proficient package.
  11. Cheat Code Central
    80
    The game simply delivers some no-nonsense, hardcore space shooter fun that's decidedly tough to beat but easy to pick up and jump right into.
  12. Gamer's Hell
    80
    Ultimately, Nanostray 2 caters to the hardcore, traditional shooter fan.
  13. GameSpy
    80
    If you enjoy this type of game, you won't find a much better example of it in the portable world.
  14. NintendoWorldReport
    80
    This game is targeted at hardcore shooter fans who like a good challenge. Its unforgiving difficulty, even on the easiest setting, makes Nanostray 2 hard to recommend for anyone else. Even so, its production values are apparent and its mechanics are solid (if a bit dated), making it a good selection for fans of the genre.
  15. Nintendo Gamer
    79
    It's incredibly slick. [Dec 2008, p.80]
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  16. GameTrailers
    78
    The challenges and online leaderboards are a plus for competitive players, and the high-adrenaline experience is a great fit for quick handheld sessions.
  17. Nintendojo
    75
    This one's for shmup fans only. With no competition on DS, N2 scratches the itch for portable shooting.
  18. Everyeye.it
    75
    Nanostray 2 is a great portable shooter-game. A fresh and fast title, perfect for long or short play sessions. But mind that if you don't exactly like this kind of game, it's high difficulty may get you to frustration very soon.

Awards & Rankings

37
#37 Best DS Game of 2008
49
#49 Most Discussed DS Game of 2008
93
#93 Most Shared DS Game of 2008

User Reviews

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User Score
7.7

Generally favorable reviews- based on 9 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 6 out of 9
  2. Mixed: 2 out of 9
  3. Negative: 1 out of 9
  1. Yojimbo2015
    Jun 24, 2023
    7
    The sequel to the slick and solid but unspectacular scrolling shooter adds horizontal scrolling levels, but they play in exactly the same way.The sequel to the slick and solid but unspectacular scrolling shooter adds horizontal scrolling levels, but they play in exactly the same way. Again, it's decent but doesn't resolve the niggles of the first game.… Full Review »
  2. jmorris724
    Dec 13, 2014
    8
    i haven't gotten to experience all this game has to offer simply cuz it's so hard. but it is awesome. the sound and visuals are vastlyi haven't gotten to experience all this game has to offer simply cuz it's so hard. but it is awesome. the sound and visuals are vastly superior to the original. the 4 unlockable games are incredible, the challenges you have to accomplish to open them are quite fun and will keep you busy for hours.… Full Review »
  3. VonSeux
    Dec 17, 2013
    8
    I was very impressed by this game at the very first minutes. The music is excelent, with awesome stereo effects, so use your headphones!I was very impressed by this game at the very first minutes. The music is excelent, with awesome stereo effects, so use your headphones! Graphics are slick and gameplay is very customisable and technical. Maybe the best space shooter since Gradius. (yes, i'm not into Blullet Hell games, they're just too much).… Full Review »
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