Unlike its predecessor, which featured an eight-character squad system, 2nd Squad limits selection to four distinct mercenaries—Leon, Toy, Lulu, and Angel—each with unique weapon loadouts and stats.

Developed by Hamster, the ACA NeoGeo version includes several modern enhancements:

: Includes online leaderboards to compete for high scores worldwide.

: Getting close to enemies allows for a melee kill, which yields higher points and a chance for rare item drops.

: The Switch version replicates the original hardware's performance, including "slowdown" during intense boss battles or high-action sequences. Summary of Reception

The game departed from traditional hand-drawn pixel art in favor of a (similar to Donkey Kong Country ). While this provides smoother animations and more detailed, large-scale boss battles, it is often cited as a reason the game has a "dated" feel compared to the first. The soundtrack remains highly regarded, featuring upbeat, high-energy action movie music and digitized voice lines. Switch-Specific Features (ACA Series)

The for Nintendo Switch is a faithful digital reproduction of the 1998 arcade classic by Saurus and SNK. Released on the Switch eShop on June 8, 2017, this "run-and-gun" title is a sequel that shifts focus toward vehicle-based combat and a distinct "pre-rendered" visual style. Core Gameplay and Mechanics

: Players use an overhead perspective to shoot in eight directions. Holding the fire button allows for strafing, while rapid tapping provides freedom of movement while firing.