LUFIA II: Rise of the Sinistrals - by Chrono Digger
Introduction:
After playing the first Lufia game, I must admit I was very hesitant to
purchase this game. Although the first Lufia was a great looking and
playing game it was one of the most difficult games I have ever played.
Luckily though for those of you out there who are worried about Lufia II
being just as difficult, you can put your worries to rest. The game is
very challenging but nowhere NEAR as difficult as the first game. The
evil Sinistrals are once again reaking havoc on the land of Lufia and
you must save the land from these evil beings before they take over
Lufia once and for all. Pretty much your standard save the land type of
storyline but I must admit a VERY in-depth story with a little of
everything thrown in the mix. For those action RPGers out there be
advised that the combat system in Lufia II is turn-based which means you
must fight using a menu system. But like Chrono Trigger it works well
within the game.
Graphics [8.5/10]:
The graphics in Lufia II are much better than Lufia but not by a lot.
The overhead map scenes look very good but a bit bland at times. The
high point of the graphics has to be the fighting scenes. Very detailed
enemies and characters really add to the depth and realism of the
combat. The only reason I didn't give the game a 9 was that at times the
graphics look like a 9.5 but at others they look as generic as a 5. But
the graphics aren't what makes this a great game.
Music and Sound [9/10]:
The music and sound effects in Lufia were a very nice surprise to me. I
really didn't expect much as far as the music went but it was actually
very good. At times the music really reminded me of Square's type of RPG
music. And the good thing was that not only was the music always very
appropriate for the setting in the game but the tracks were also long
enough in most places to keep it from becoming repetative during long
playing sessions. I have to say the music in Lufia II was really great.
I wish there was a music CD with the music from this game.
Gameplay [8.5/10]:
There is not a lot I can say about the gameplay as it is pretty much
your standard turn-based style combat system. I did like the ease of use
and the speed at which the battle was carried out as to not become
annoying or too repetative. A lot of options during the fight including
unique "special abilities" and a very cool magic system made the game
that much more interesting. The game is also well laid out which makes
the gameplay run ultra smoothly. Another pleasant surprise.
Challenge and Replay [8.5/10]:
The challenge is definately here and thankfully not to the high degree
of difficulty of the first Lufia game. Just enought to make it
challenging. You will definately spend some major time on this game if
you expect to finish it. As for replay I don't think most people would
play through this game for a second time anytime in the near future
after you finish it the first time. Good but not that good and a little
bit challenging to just pick up and start over again. Take my word for
it you will get your money's worth in playing time on this one.
Conclusion/Overall [8.5/10]:
Overall Lufia II was a very pleasant surprise to me and one I definately
enjoyed playing through very much. Like I said earlier I thought the
graphics were really great in some places but looked bad in others. And
after leaving an area of the game that looked great and walking into an
area that looked bland you really noticed the difference. Really good
soundtrack and a great and deep storyline made this game one that I
would definately recommend to anyone out there and I will definately be
playing this game again someday soon.
