While Episode 2 has many similarities to Episode 1, I have to admit that I enjoyed this second outing even more than the previous. Finding ways to usurp power from the leaders of the other "countries" in the game just feels more fitting with Strong Bad's style than his actions in Episode 1, and more fun to do as well I found myself laughing out loud more often playing Strong Badia the Free and the sense of pacing didn't feel nearly as slowed down, perhaps due to the nature of the new story and the actions Strong Bad takes within it.
If you're not already a fan of Homestar Runner cartoons, Episode 2 of Strong Bad's Cool Game for Attractive People will not make a lot of sense, however. While you could pretty much get away with not being too familiar with all of Strong Bad's adventures while playing Episode 1, Episode 2 makes a lot more sense and is more fun if you actually know the significance of things like the indie-tronic remix of "The Geddup Noise" song and why glow sticks indicate "light switch raves." Watching a vast majority of the cartoons at HomestarRunner.com is highly recommended for the uninitiated before playing Strong Badia the Free, much moreso than with Homestar Ruiner.
However, knowledge of the happenings in the first game are not required for playing Episode 2. There are a few passing references to some of the events and situations that occurred in Episode 1, but not a one that I've encountered had any sort of significant impact on the story. So, if you haven't played Episode 1 yet, or if you haven't finished it yet, don't worry; Strong Badia the Free is a perfectly fine starting point for the series, or even as a standalone game.
If you played and enjoyed Homestar Ruiner, or didn't but are still a big Homestar Runner or Strong Bad fan, Strong Badia the Free is highly recommended. The game is currently available on WiiWare (and may be downloaded onto your Wii console from the Wii Shop Channel in the system menu for 1000 Wii Points) and on PC for $8.95 at Telltale Games (though you can also reserve the full "season bundle" there for $34.95 as well).
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