Once I'd configured the NVidia settings on my Dell XPS 15 running Windows 8.1 to force DKII-DX.EXE to use the NVidia card instead of the Intel, this game was an absolute joy to play (without that it would crash when attempting to start a level). On a GT640M it runs perfectly smoothly. DK2 is a "god game" dating from when Bullfrog were at the height of their genius, allowing the player to choose between micro-management of individual creatures or providing a more general directions. Use imps to dig out your dungeon, bridging water and lava, and mining gold and gems. Then decide what creatures to attract by what rooms you build for them. Train up your forces and unleash your wicked minions on the unsuspecting heroes, crushing them beneath your horned feet! You can also build traps and defences to keep the goodly heroes at bay, or bash them senseless and drag them to your prison or torture chamber to either extract intelligence or to recruit them to your side. The game is beautifully balanced, rewarding different strategies in different ways. The learning curve was just right for me, only one level had me resorting to an online walkthrough for strategy tips. When I was young I never got past the first few levels, but I've now completed it after a few weeks of playing here and there. Each of the 20 levels taking between 1 and 2 hours. Finally, it would be remiss not to mention Richard Ridings (Peppa's Daddy Pig) providing the most beautifully wicked narration as your mentor, egging on your evil deeds in an voice like liquid gold. I truly enjoyed DK2. There's not many games make me smile (and even laugh) when I play them, but this is one of them. Thanks GOG! "Keeper, you have something unpleasant under your fingernail"
