Sonny Bonds
The protagonist and a police detective investigating the case.
Documented for this version
The game primarily uses typed parser commands rather than a documented gamepad control scheme.
Exact keyboard shortcuts can vary by release and DOS configuration.
How it plays
The game uses a first-person view of illustrated scenes with text-parser interaction. Players examine locations, question people, collect evidence, and enter commands to perform police work. Driving and crime-scene procedures form important parts of the investigation.
The story progresses through a sequence of locations and case developments. Incorrect procedures, missed clues, or dangerous decisions can lead to failure, so players are expected to save often and apply information gathered earlier in the case.
Plan your run
Read every scene carefully and record names, locations, and evidence. Parser adventures often require specific wording, so try clear, direct commands when an obvious action does not work.
Follow police procedure, inspect relevant objects before leaving, and save before major confrontations or potentially dangerous actions. If progress stops, revisit earlier locations and question characters again.
Meet the cast
The protagonist and a police detective investigating the case.
Sonny's partner and fellow officer.
A dangerous criminal whose escape drives the central investigation.
Before you begin
Save frequently, especially before arrests, confrontations, and driving sequences.
Examine scenes thoroughly and keep notes on evidence and witness statements.
Use direct parser commands and revisit locations when the investigation stalls.
Police Quest II: The Vengeance is a police-procedural graphic adventure developed and published by Sierra On-Line for DOS in 1988. It follows Sonny Bonds, now working as a detective, as he investigates a dangerous criminal case connected to the escape of Jessie Bains. The game combines typed-parser exploration with evidence gathering, interviews, vehicle operations, and strict adherence to police procedure. Its play style is deliberate rather than action-oriented: careful observation and correct choices are more important than speed. The sequel was well received for its authentic atmosphere, procedural detail, and stronger presentation, although its unforgiving design could punish players who missed a step or entered an incorrect command.
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