Exit sequel promises simplifed action, stronger puzzle elements

News from IGN

One of last year's more unique PSP title is returning for a second go. The latest issue of Famitsu contains first details on Taito's sequel to Exit. In Japan, the sequel has been titled Kangaeru Exit, or "Thinking Exit."

The goal and basic flow of Exit remain unchanged with the sequel. Controlling Mr. ESC, you help people escape from disaster areas. As the name suggests, the new title places a greater emphasis on puzzle elements. The game promises over 110 stages that put your brain to the test.

A few changes have been made to the game's control scheme in order to deemphasize action and place the emphasis on puzzles. You now input actions in order to make Mr. ESC move. The game offers twelve actions: walk, run, open, duck, fall, jump, swim, command, pull up, push, operate and crawl. The "command" action allows you to give orders to the people you've rescued, while the "operate" command lets you to operate the various obstacles, including elevators and ropes, that you encounter in the stages.

Taito is making some additions and refinements that will likely add to the experience. Among other gameplay refinements, you can now change your direction when climbing up a ladder. The game also adds new obstacles, like ropeways and escalators. You'll also find new types of survivors, including a dog, whose capable of making long jumps and swimming, and a "macho," a male or female character who, as the name suggests has tremendous strength.

As with the original, Taito will be offering downloadable content, adding new stages long after you've cleared the basic game. In comments shared with Famitsu, the game's producer promised a "surprising" amount of volume.

The sequel to Exit will hit Japan in what's looking to be a very crowded September for the PSP. The game is currently 70% complete.