Yes, we're crazy. Alundra 2 has horrible graphics and average game play, but it absolutely
excels in terms of characters and story.
The story is so well-written and woven among game play scenarios that RPG fans really
shouldn't miss out. Truly fantastical moments occur in this game, as seen by the mysterious
horned whale early in the game. What a sight! What a flight of fantasy!
While there are portions of text in the game, a good amount of material is delivered through
voice-overs, especially when some sort of action is involved. Earl Boen and Cam Clarke, who I
raved about in Sword of the Berserk, also lend their talents to this game, as does the late Mary
Kay Bergman of South Park fame. (She sung the Oscar-nominated song "Blame Canada.")
Controls are completely customizable. I am especially thankful for this because I hated the
designation of the action button to the circle button. I changed it to the X button.
Game play is basic, but it captures the Zelda-ish flavor of the original Wild Arms. Many areas
are filled with traps or obstacles such as steam pipes (don't get too close!), bombs, and block
puzzles. One area of the game features a "roller ball" that provides a nice Indiana Jones moment
emphasized by the camera angle.
Alundra 2 doesn't do anything you haven't seen before, but the story and characters, complete
with great comic timing, are just too charming to resist. Any game that has someone
accidentally interrupting you while you're conducting business in the outhouse has to get my
vote.
Publisher: Activision