Soul Reaver 2

"A good game with many bugs"

As Crystal Dynamics has often said, the strength of the Legacy of Kain Series has always been the plot. While this is true, they really should have play tested the game more. For example, you can get locked inside several of the forges with now way out and several puzzles will trap you in certain parts of the game as they bug. I have already had to restart the game five times because of problems like these. I just can't wait for game shark codes to come out so I can debug the parts that trap you.
Despite the bugs, the new combat system is a major improvement and the demons make for much harder opponents than the original soul reaver; however, I think its kind of unfair that they can chase you into the spectral realm.
I must admit I do miss the big bosses from the original soul reaver. Even the last fight in the game is nothing more than a standard enemy with a super smart AI.
The best feature of the game is its outstanding plot. The voice acting is as good as ever and there is a surprise around every corner. If only other games had the rich verbal content of Soul Reaver 2. The only one I can think of is Onimusha, but then again, you cold fit Onimusha into a small corner of the Soul Reaver 2 would because its so big.
Some people complain about how linear the game is. I hate to say it, but that’s the whole point. Raziel is being manipulated and used the entire way through the game despite the fact that he prizes himself on his free will. The linearity of Soul Reaver 2 is there to reinforce the idea that you are not in control of your (or his) destiny. Raziel can't even die if he wants to.
Graphically, Soul Reaver 2 is beautiful in more subtle ways than most games. For example, Soul Reaver 2 has the best looking water surfaces and effects I've ever seen in a game. Just wait till you see the blood effects in the fire forge. The reflection off of icy surfaces is beautiful, and the lighting is awesome. I was expecting a little more however of some of the enemies and Raziel himself. Its kind of sad when a no name Sarafan warrior looks ten times as detailed as the main character.
Hopefully Soul Reaver 3 will be better considering the engine is already there and they will have time to actually debug the game. If I could have it my way, I would have Crystal Dynamics debug the game again and to a recall swap out.

Reviewer's Score: 7/10, Originally Posted: 11/05/01, Updated 11/05/01