Lufia II: Rise of the Sinistrals

"Before Lufia there's Maxim"

Introduction
Lufia II was first released in 1995, two years after the release of its predecessor, the original Lufia. Since then, Lufia has spawned off two more games both on GBC (Lufia: the Legend Returns) and GBA (Lufia: ruins of Lore). Lufia II was by far, one of the best non-Square RPG. This game, which originally released under the name of estoplis in Japan, managed to integrate the element of puzzle and RPG well. A unique thing about Lufia II: Rise of the sinistral would be the fact that it is a prequel to the story of Lufia: the fortress of doom (the first Lufia).

Gameplay
Lufia brings about a unique form of gameplay that slightly differs from other RPG. It would remind many of Zelda, with its puzzle and Action RPG elements. Lufia combined the nerve-wrecking puzzle that will guarantee many gamers to rack their brain in order to progress to the next stage to the game, while at the same time retaining elements of traditional RPG.

Like many RPG, a party in Lufia consists of four characters, in which the characters are divided stereotypically - The warrior and the healer. There isn't any explanation needed here, as many hardcore RPG fans would have encountered something similar to this.

A unique element in Lufia II however, would be its various puzzle. The puzzles are quite easy at the beginning of the game; however, it gradually becomes more difficult as the game progress. Some of them in fact, would be almost impossible to crack without the aid of any guidebook or walkthrough. At some stage, the puzzle could be though to figure out, and I believe this might deter some of the RPG players who play the game for the story.

There is also the ancient cave with its 100 levels. This cave will definitely be able to pose a serious challenge for many players. In fact, this sidequest itself might be harder than the final battle.

Storyline
Like many RPG, Lufia II deals with specific themes and issues. The two notables one are the much overused ''Saving the world'' theme, and love being the other.

Just like your regular RPG, Lufia II revolves around Maxim the main characters in the game. Lufia players would find him a no stranger, as Maxim and the legend of dual blade are an integral part of Lufia I story. As being mentioned above, Lufia II is a prequel of Lufia I. In fact the final battle of Lufia II is the opening battle of Lufia I. However, that doesn't mean that this game has nothing much to offer storyline-wise. The game will reveal things that might be of interest to Lufia fans. As it goes, the story is about a young warrior named Maxim and his quest to save the world from the sinistrals. It is very much like the original Lufia. In fact, Lufia I and II final bosses are the same.

Love is another theme recurring in this RPG. Lufia II has managed to convey this theme well, and for this I believe it has succeeded in pushing Lufia to rank among the greatest. It is not common, to find RPG with the theme of love during those days, let alone love being the main theme of the game. Lufia II revolves between Maxim and Selan. Some of Lufia players might find these two characters recognisable from the introduction of the original game. There are of course more notable things to mention under this theme, however that would be giving the storyline away.

One thing that stands out about this game would be its ending. The ending is awfully similar to the introduction of Lufia I. However, the extra scenes that accompany it brings out a poignant effects. This ending would has a greater effect had there has been no Lufia I. Nevertheless, the ending is still noteworthy and it closes the game with a poignant note.

Graphics
Decent, although nowhere fantastic. A tremendous improvement has been made since the original game. However, the graphics are not as good as others RPG that were released at that time. These RPG being Final Fantasy VI and Chrono Trigger. In terms of graphics, Lufia II is worse off compared to the two games mentioned previously. This despite the game was being released in 1995, the same year as Chrono Trigger and one year after Final Fantasy VI. Being an RPG however, graphics does not account much towards the game.

Sounds/Music
Great music could be found in this game. Some of the more notable are ''The Fortress of dome'' as well as the Ending song. The songs in this game are done well enough to be able to intensify the atmosphere of some particular scenes. The upbeat tune of the Fortress of Doom gears you up for the final battle, and the sorrowful tune of the ending songs did not fail to evoke much emotion. While Lufia II music might not be the best for an SNES game, it definitely comes close to that.

Replay Value
As much as I enjoy this game, just like many RPG, I did not find any compelling reasons that make me want to play the game all over again. Lufia II is no Chrono Trigger with its replay value. Like many RPG, Lufia II lacks the replay value. Despite this, the lack of replay value will be made up by the countless hours that you will spend cracking the puzzles in the game.

Final Words
Overall, Lufia II is a great game. On a personal note I would say I enjoy the game very much and it placed among the top three SNES RPG games on my list. (Beside FF VI and CT). Its storyline as well as its gameplay are enough to render this game as a masterpiece. It is commendable that this game managed to carry out the love theme well - even better than Final Fantasy VIII in my opinion. However, it is not spared from flaws. It is not the best yet, when it comes to some sectors such as Graphics or Replay Value.

Despite this, I would not hesitate to recommend this game. To put it shortly, Lufia II is a great RPG game that you will enjoy. However, this game might not be for you if you detest solving puzzles, as the game required many of those in order to progress to the next stage.

Final Score: 9.8 (rounded up to 10)

Reviewer's Score: 10/10, Originally Posted: 09/28/03