Below are user reviews of Legacy Of Kain: Soul Reaver 2 and on the right are links to professionally written reviews.
The summary of review scores shows the distribution of scores given by the professional reviewers for Legacy Of Kain: Soul Reaver 2.
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User Reviews (1 - 11 of 98)
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Legacy of Kain remains the same......
5
Rating: 5,
Useful: 47 / 58
Date: April 17, 2001
Author: Amazon User
I've been a fan of this series since Blood Omen, and I've loved both games that have came out. But, literally, this game blows away the competition.
First the graphics are a HUGE leap and will be some of the best for any game of any genre for any system to date. Raziel alone takes up more than 30,000 polygons! You can see every little grusome detail better thanks to the Playstation 2, and you're going to have to notice alot details to make it passed the puzzels.
You'll acquire new and improved Soul Reaver weapon enhancements, physical abilities, and relics to interact with the environment and unlock the secrets of Nosgoth. Encounter a whole load of new enemies including vampire hunters, vampires, Sarafan warrior-priests, spectral spirits, and extra-dimensional demons. Immerse yourself in a gothic realm of highly detailed architecture and environments supported with an intriguing storyline, in-game cinematic events and compelling voice-over.
No more pushing blocks around for Raziel, now to get access to certain areas you're going to have some thinking to do, while some tasks are quite obvious, some are not. And some require you to back-track, get a certain ability then return at a later point in the game.
If you liked Soul Reaver, you like Soul Reaver 2, that is, if you've got your playstation 2, if you don't, get one! Happy gamming.
Legacy of Kain: Soul Reaver 2
5
Rating: 5,
Useful: 9 / 18
Date: July 15, 2001
Author: Amazon User
Raziel is back once again to unlock the secrets of Nosgoth and to find Kain. The graphics are fantastic with superb detail in the game. You will notice how horrifying Raziel really looks. The puzzles in the game are a lot harder though some are easy. The gameplay is much deeper , stronger and definately gets you into the game. As he travels through times both peaceful and tragic, Raziel will be exposed to the people who influenced the history of Nosgoth, and he'll witness the events that continue to shape the land. Will you help Raziel reach his destiny or will you condem him into the abyss? Pre - order copy's now, this game is a must have.
Yes it's worth the wait.
5
Rating: 5,
Useful: 4 / 4
Date: November 02, 2001
Author: Amazon User
First off let me state that I am a huge fan of the Legacy of Kain series of games. I have been looking forward to Soul Reaver 2 probably more than any other game that was coming out on the PS2 (well I am looking forward to Blood Omen 2 as well). This game to me is probably what Metal Gear Solid 2 is to many others, the game that we really "got to have." The fantastic story lines, the best voice acting I have ever heard in a series of games.
And to talk about the story lines is really the heart of the Legacy of Kain series. It is an unfolding drama with each game that you get is this spectacular series. And for many of this, that's what drew us in, that and the voice acting from the first game. Plus the subject matter (vampires) is of interest to me.
For those that have been anxiously awaiting this game I need offer no recommendation, you have already been drawn in and I don't need to tell you that you should get this game. But for those who have never played any of the now three games in this series I would still suggest getting this game.
If you are into graphics (who isn't right?), then you won't be disappointed, they are simply fantastic. I am amazed at what the next generation consoles can do, who knew when we were back playing the Legend of Zelda? We are finally starting to see the reasons why we bought our PS2's.
But again, it's the voice acting and story where Soul Reaver 2 shine. It's the continuing quest of Raziel to destroy his former master turned nemesis Kain. But the story is not so straight forward, there are always twists in the Legacy of Kain world. It's our visual book on the story of these two characters, the history of Nosgoth and how their world has taken shape by the actions of the past.
Will you be lost jumping into this game now that it's the 3rd part in the series? Maybe a little bit. But the disc has some options to catch you up with the story. You can watch how Soul Reaver 2 ended, read parts of the history of Nosgoth (all of this is accessible from the menu screen) and even view a time line of some of the history.
So was it worth the long wait? I would have to say yes and a big thanks to Eidos for making such quality games even if they do take a little while to get out.
The Demo is excellent
5
Rating: 5,
Useful: 8 / 18
Date: August 02, 2001
Author: Amazon User
In the latest edition of JAMPACT (Playstation Underground) there is a Demo for this game. I was very impressed with the first for PS1, and the sequel is looking to be 300 times better graphics wise and sound wise. I would recommend this game to anyone who is an RPG/Action fan.
Perhaps delays arn't to bad.
5
Rating: 5,
Useful: 8 / 9
Date: October 02, 2001
Author: Amazon User
I know many of us have been waiting for this game for a long time (from the moment I passed soul reaver 1), and now it has been delayed further. But the reasons for the delay excite me even more. Eidos said they woiuldn't release the game until it was 100% done. Unlike other companies who are ok with little problems here and there. They are making sure that the frame rate is extremely high everywhere in the game, the are guarenteeing that this will be the greatest game Ever made.
I hate waiting too, but I can wait for gaming perfection.
Soul Reaver 2 rules......
5
Rating: 5,
Useful: 2 / 2
Date: November 27, 2002
Author: Amazon User
If you're the type who loves a good story in their games, look no further than the 'Legacy of Kain' series. Especially, Soul Reaver 2. This game is mucho deep on storyline. To be honest, I think that is why most fans are so passionate about the series. It's deep. I've been a big fan of the series for quite some time and that is my sole reason for playing the games. Just to see what happens next. I'll admit, alot of times I'm left scratching my head on certain things but I'm sure they will be answered in due time.
Everything from plot to presentation to control and gameplay, everything is tuned to a fine perfection.You'll often find yourself in awe of the beautiful scenery this game has. Be warned, though, some of the puzzles in this one are tough but, with good common sense, you'll make it through alright. There's alot of extras in this game, as well, such as Voice outtakes and excetra. Well worth playing through to unlock. This is one game definitely worth checking out.
I, like other fans, am pleased to know yet another in the series is coming. Til that time, I'd like to suggest that you play Blood Omen 2 as well. Awesome game.
One of the best the PS2 has to offer.
5
Rating: 5,
Useful: 2 / 2
Date: September 23, 2005
Author: Amazon User
This is game number 3 in a (currently) 5 game series. I am coming back and writing this review after having played all of the games, and 3 years after having played it the first time through (I have recently played it again start to finish).
Simply put, this game is amazing.
TECHNICAL ASPECTS
The graphics were incredible for its time, and still are good. The textures, the locales, and the ambience are all exceedingly well done. The music ranges from really good to unnoticed.
Then there is the voice acting. This entire series, and especially this game, have the best voice acting of any videogame I've ever seen. It's even better than most movies that come out these days. Even most of the people who dislike or hate the game admit the acting is superb. The character animations fit the dialogue, which is itself very well written.
STORY
Being a story-driven game, this is where it shines. It is rare to see videogames with actual dynamic characters, and a well laid out plot. I can't go into detail about it, partly because it's a vast storyline (with 2 games full of plot preceeding it), and partly becasue i don't want to spoil it for anyone. Besides, the game's pacing and unfolding of the story is done so well, I don't want to screw it up by telling it poorly.
GAMEPLAY
I prefer the puzzles in this game to the ones in any of the other games. They seem more organic, if a little easier. Gone are the block puzzles, and (for the most part) jumping puzzles. These seem more like a riddle without words.
Combat is interesting at first, but grows stale after not too long. While a general improvement on the first games, this is probably the worst part about this game (and it's not that bad).
On one hand, it never really gets frustrating, on the other, it's never really that exciting. Combat in general is why this game received 4 stars (instead of 5) in the fun department.
I loved the puzzle-type boss battles from Soul Reaver 1, and was saddened to not have them here, but it's something you'll learn to live with out.
The camera in this game (unlike most 3d games) is excellent, mainly because you're in control of it. Having full control of its rotation is such a relief and suprisingly rare in games of this ilk.
I actually like the fact that there are no "powerups" in this game. Hunting all over the world for hidden pieces of extra health has its place, but not in such a plot-driven game such as this one.
OVERALL
It is a superbly presented game. It's biggest fault is that it is rather on the short side (probably 10 hours of gameplay to beat), but that just means its slightly longer than most other games out there nowadays. But, what time you do spend playing it is well worth that time.
Soul Reaver 2! Why you should wait!
5
Rating: 5,
Useful: 2 / 3
Date: October 03, 2001
Author: Amazon User
Usually when games are delayed it means there has been some problem found that should be fixed. I'm personally glad that Soul Reaver 1 was delayed. The end result was a better game. Anyways Soul Reaver 2 continues where Soul Reaver 1 left off. You continue to hunt Kain as Raziel! Travel through Nosgoth's past in your endless hunt to find Kain! "Free will cannot exist in the present when destiny lies in the past"
Sometimes if you toss the coin enough times...
5
Rating: 5,
Useful: 1 / 1
Date: November 03, 2001
Author: Amazon User
There are a handful of quoteable movies that just make someone seem so much cooler when they quote the movie, there aren't that many games like that, sadly because the emphases has always been on graphics, and ocassionally developers will work on Gameplay too. For those of us who play games for story we just seem so much cooler for knowing the dialogue of Legacy of Kain. Legacy of Kain can be for gamers, what Fight Club is for movie buffs. seriesly! These three games are the most quotable games in history! Nothing is more fun than running down the halls at work shouting "Vae Victus!" Not only is the dialogue sharp, and so well written it would blow shakespear out of the water, but Kain has had a history of incredably great gameplay, it's hard to get bored playing these games.
SR 1 (especially the dreamcast version) had it's bugs and was less than perfect. SR 2, however, has corrected absolutely every minor complaint I had with the first one. The camera work is better, the graphics and animation are solid and the best part is that the story is even deeper than SR 1, and is right up there with Blood Omen: Legacy of Kain, the original by Silicon Knights.
Eidos Interactive is listed as one of my least favorite devlopers for Tomb Raider and it's countless clones, and thier refusal to put an end to the crappy cameras and bad control. When I first heard that Eidos had nabbed Legacy of Kain I was in a state of dread, thankfully Legacy of Kain still manages to break the molds of corporate games and takes the gamer on a wild thrill ride throughout Nosgoth, past present and future, like it's predicassors the games focuses on art and story every bit as much as graphics and gameplay. I don't think there could possibly be a better horror title out there. Crystal D should really look into getting a verbatim film made of these games, as Legacy of Kain is second Only to Vampire The Masqerade (Tabletop) in it's gothic horror style storytelling.
Eidos should learn from this game. If the next Tomb Raider plays this well then maybe I'll buy it. Resident Evil may also want to learn from this.
Something else to boast about is the complex new method of puzzel solving. Gone are the insert block through slot throw switch puzzles, instead there is a lot of object placement, and setting things up. I'm stuck on the light mirror puzzle. This game was well worth the wait!
The DVD extras give the game a little kick. Something else I hope becomes industry standard. Kain breaks the mold of PS2 games here by giving the player a true DVD experience with DVD extras, backstory, soundtracks, making of featurett, even outtakes, though some of it must be unlocked. SR 2 is packed full of everything one would need to declair this game perfect, and hands down the best of the series thus far. The only complaint I have is that the opening FMV seemed a bit cartoony compared to SR 1's amazing FMV which just looked more realistic for some reason.
"Vae Victus!"
Buy this game, you know you want it!
Awesome
5
Rating: 5,
Useful: 1 / 1
Date: November 15, 2001
Author: Amazon User
This is one those games that justifies the ($)you have to shell out for a PS2. The graphics are fluid and very detailed. No fog to hide details or anything. Also Raziel starts out with most of the powers from the first Soul Reaver which is cool. The voice work is good and the story is twisted but it flows pretty well. Beware, this game sucks you in and you'll spend several hours before you know it. The first night I played it, I ended up playing for about 5 hours. The puzzles are tricky, and it not just a series of block puzzles. To be honest there are only a few games that, in my opinion, are real stand-outs. This is the best of them. I haven't finished the game yet so I haven't seen everything. From what I've seen you can't go wrong getting this game. Finally a bunch good titles are coming out for PS2, but so far this the best you get on the PS2.
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