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The Archetype Archive 2 is an electronic book expanding the material first seen in Green Ronin’s Mutants and Masterminds, Second Edition and following the ideas presented in Archetype Archive 1. Like its predecessor, these archetypes are presented in a graphically sound format and include color illustrations representing each model.
The first archetype presented is the Agent. Though the image implies a “Fox Mulder-like” character, the build feels more like a “James Bond” type of agent. Personally, I was hoping for something more akin to Nick Fury, but, with some major tweaking, this archetype can become something akin to that.
Next up is the Angel. Though some may instantly think of the X-Man of the same name, the Angel is closer to the mystic/religious counterpart seen in characters like the JLA’s Zauriel. Again, an interesting build that has many uses, though I have one minor quibble with the flaming sword. Personally, I’d think this would be a device, but one may presume the build is because there’s no way to take it from him, hence why it’s a base power.
Next is the Animal Power, which has got to be one of my favorites in this archive. Not only are we given a base character with stats, but we’re also given a slew of animal packages that may be applied to such a character. Need a Spider Man? It’s covered. How about a Tigra? Again … it’s there. By far one of the most versatile and useful archetypes in the series.
I had to chuckle at the image of the Cyborg archetype and the irony of his impervious toughness. I think the only thing that could’ve made this build better for me is if the Titans character Cyborg were used as an inspiration. While not a bad brick, there could be so much more potential added on. Perhaps a modular power set akin to the Animal Power?
Fans of the current run of X-Factor would find some similarities between the Duplicator and the Multiple Man. A veritable team of his own, the Duplicator makes an interesting character with such feats as Teamwork and Set-Up to enhance his team-like status. Included with this build are two variations of powers depending on how you want your Duplicator’s powers to work.
From someone who makes copies to someone who can stretch, the Elastic Hero is by far another staple of comic book characters. As fans of characters such as Mr. Fantastic or Plastic Man know, Elastic Heroes are quite “flexible” in their builds, allowing for an incredible amount of “pliability” within the concept. The archetype included doesn’t let anyone down and includes several tricks that may “stretch” the imagination a bit.
The Jungle Lord is next up. Though I can’t imagine it getting a ton of use, I was glad to see this archetype included in the series. Here’s a build with little power and a bunch of combat feats, as well as some neat skills and equipment. In contrast to what I said about the Super Soldier, I’m glad this went the cookie-cutter way and presented a homage to characters like Tarzan, Ka-Zar and the Beastmaster.
With Wolverine becoming one of the more popular characters in current comics, it wasn’t a huge surprise to see a character like the Living Weapon appear. For anyone looking for a build akin to Logan, this is what you’re looking for. Not only do you get a nasty strike, but the archetype also has the healing factor and senses as well. An interesting tribute to a wildly popular character.
I’ve always been a fan of the character Swamp Thing. There was always something interesting about the concept and I was pleased to see that the Plant Power archetype made it into the archive. Here’s a character with tremendous potential for power, as well as having some serious adaptability in most situations with only a minor amount of tweaking. I especially like the Teleportation ability he has ... well done.
The final archetype is the Teleporter. This one seems to have jumped right out of a comic book and, with minimal changes, could be a beast in combat. In fact, one of the options in the main text details how to use Nauseate in conjunction with Teleport to make a nasty attack. This one’s quite neat.
Overall, the PDF is a steal at the price and presents some really neat ideas. I highly recommend them o anyone playing Mutants and Masterminds (or any supers campaign for that matter) and know that I’ll be using them to represent both heroes and villains in my campaigns.
