Baldur's Gate: Dark Alliance II

"A ‘Dark Alliance’ of sub-par proportions"

The video game industry has seen its fare share of sequels and spin-offs from popular franchises. Some have come and gone like any other passing fad, while others have emerged as worthy bearers of their forerunner’s names.
“Baldur’s Gate: Dark Alliance II” carries the torch for its brethren; not only is it a sequel, but also a console series based off a celebrated PC franchise.
In 2001, the original “Dark Alliance” was released to a world of unsuspecting gamers. Combining elements of exploration with a hack n’ slash fighting system similar to “Gauntlet,” “DA” became an unexpected hit.
After two years and a change in developers, “Dark Alliance II” hits store shelves with only few new features to differentiate itself from its counterpart.
One or two players can hack their way through waves of enemies as the story progresses through the use of cut-scenes and interactions with non-playable characters. From a graphical stand-point, the cut-scenes are impaired by robotic character animation and sub-par voice acting, which in turn, hamper any desire players might have to see the conclusion unravel. Furthermore, the story as a whole, just isn’t as strong as it was in the original game.
The opening scene depicts the previous heroes being captured by a new villain just as they are victorious in their conquest against the former enemy. Now, five bold, new adventurers just happen to be on their way to “Baldur’s Gate” to save the day. The story can be a turn-off for gamers that were expecting the same quality of story development that made the first game more than just a typical hack fest. On the other hand, gamers may find that it adds a level of comic relief to the non-stop action. Although, it certainly wasn’t intended to be that way.
Despite the jerky animation and weak story, players will still find themselves enjoying certain aspects of “Dark Alliance II.” For example, the multi-player mode is much more fun than the single-player adventure. Furthermore, a new feature which enables players to create their own weapons and armor has been implemented.
Through the use of rune stones, gems, diamonds, etc. players will be able to add not only extra strength to their weaponry, but also elemental effects, such as fire or ice. Armor can gain a standard boost in defense, or even resistance to certain types of attacks. The ability to craft their own items will give players a little extra incentive to explore the world.
“Baldur’s Gate: Dark Alliance II” is what it is; an average, albeit respectable, sequel that does nothing to revolutionize the genre. A flailing story, coupled with choppy animation and laughable voice-overs, will keep some players from ever being able to take it seriously. Nevertheless, a unique item creation system adds a level a depth to the game. Furthermore, the multi-player mode is not only fun, but also essential in gaining full enjoyment from this title.

Reviewer's Score: 7/10, Originally Posted: 02/01/04