Some games weren’t huge hits, didn’t have big marketing, and weren’t talked about much – yet they stayed with us. Brave Dwarves 2 is one of those titles. If you grew up playing CD-bundled PC games in the early 2000s, chances are this was one of them.
It was a small fantasy platformer with straightforward mechanics, colorful levels, and two distinct heroes. Nothing too ambitious, but for many players it was surprisingly memorable.
Here’s a look back at what made this little game fun.
Two Heroes, Two Different Playstyles
Before starting the game, you had to pick your character — and this choice mattered:
1. The Warrior (Axe Hero)
- Used melee attacks
- Could pick up unique weapons, including funny gadgets like miniature helicopters that acted as usable items
- More direct, “hit first” playstyle
2. The Mage
- Attacked from range using fireballs and other magic
- Better for keeping distance from enemies
- Felt slightly more tactical because of the spell-based combat
These two modes added some replay value, since levels played differently depending on your hero.
Shops, Items, and Useful Rings
Throughout the levels, you collected gems and coins. These weren’t just for score – they had a real use.
You could visit a shop, usually at the start of a level, and buy:
- Weapons
- Special items
- Rings that gave you protection (fire immunity, water immunity, etc.)
- The map – which was actually an item you needed to purchase (the compass to be precise)
The shop system wasn’t complex, but it gave the game a light RPG flavor and made your treasure hunting feel meaningful.
Finding Keys and Facing Bosses
Each level followed a clear structure:
- Explore the map
- Fight enemies
- Collect coins and items
- Find the key
The key was the critical part — without it, you couldn’t open the final exit of the level.
Behind that exit?
A boss, waiting at the end.
This loop repeated across the game, giving every stage a goal and a bit of tension. You weren’t just running left to right – you had to search, pay attention, and prepare.
A Handful of Levels, but Enough to Be Fun
Brave Dwarves 2 didn’t have dozens of areas, but the ones it had were varied enough:
- Forest-like regions
- Caves
- Underground passages
- Slightly darker, more atmospheric zones
Exploration felt simple but satisfying. Each level had hidden spots, small secrets, and the occasional teleporter that helped you move around faster (especially useful when hunting for that one stubborn key).
Straightforward, Relaxing, and Easy to Return To
The game wasn’t difficult to understand:
- Pick your hero
- Explore
- Buy items
- Collect gems
- Find the key
- Beat the boss
This simplicity is probably why many players remember it fondly. It wasn’t stressful, the pacing was gentle, and it offered just enough challenge to keep you interested.
Even today, the game is pleasant in the way old platformers often are — nothing complicated, just straightforward fun with a small dose of fantasy.
Why It Stayed in People’s Memories
Brave Dwarves 2 wasn’t a major release, but:
- The heroes were distinct
- The shop system felt rewarding
- The items (especially the rings) gave a sense of progress
- The combination of action + exploration worked well
- And the game had a very “early 2000s home PC” atmosphere
For many players, it was one of those small games you discovered by accident – and ended up liking more than expected.
Final Thoughts
Brave Dwarves 2 represents a type of game we don’t see much anymore: small, focused, unpretentious platformers built to simply be fun. It didn’t have complex storylines or huge worlds, but it offered a cozy adventure with two cool heroes, simple upgrades, and enjoyable level design.
If you remember it from your childhood, it’s an easy title to revisit – especially if you enjoy uncomplicated retro games that let you relax.
