| 90 |
netjak
In a generation of games where developers put more time into cutscenes, talking, and character development than into pure gameplay, this hack/slash RPG is a huge relief. There's a time and place for games that are more like movies, but Shining Soul 2 is a reminder as to what this hobby of videogames is all about.
|
| 85 |
GameCube Advanced
I always wondered if someone could pull off a "Diablo"-esque game on the GBA, and this proves it can be done, and done well.
|
| 84 |
Nintendo Insider
There is an incredible amount of replay value if you're willing to tackle the advanced difficulty or try a different class through the game. However, while alone, the game does lose a bit of its steam.
|
| 84 |
Nintendo Power
Slow-to-roll-out dialogue bogs down the game at the beginning, but the pace quickens when the fighting begins. [Mar 2004, p.120]
|
| 80 |
Pocket Games
With eight character classes the possibilities for multiplayer and replay are endless. [Summer 2004, p.41]
|
| 80 |
Yahoo! Games
Its single-player is engaging and varied, and the multiplayer is even better. If you're looking for something a little deeper than the usual GBA fare, Shining Soul II is sure to put a smile on any gamer's face.
|
| 80 |
Computer and Video Games
The crowning glory is a co-operative multiplayer game that's every bit as thrilling as the GBA's "Four Swords." It's hardcore, but accessible.
|
| 77 |
GameSpot
Variety and customization are what people enjoy about the dungeon crawler genre, and Shining Soul II offers both in abundance.
|
| 75 |
Game Informer
It feels a little bit like "Zelda" and has the depth of "Diablo." Not bad. Not bad at all. [Feb 2004, p.114]
|
| 75 |
IGN
A significant improvement over last year's original and a lot more fun and playable. The developers worked to make the sequel a much more realized action RPG than the original.
|
| 75 |
GameSpy
With the variety of unique character choices, the interesting level-up method, and rocking multiplayer, Shining Soul II has its charm. Still, I can't help feeling it's still missing something to give it more oomph, at least in single-player mode.
|
| 72 |
Inside Gamer Online
The game is obviously hard, and the fact that there’s no pause screen doesn’t help either.
|
| 72 |
Electronic Gaming Monthly
Get some friends together, though, and you've got one seriously fun multiplayer RPG. [Jan 2004, p.164]
|
| 70 |
Cheat Code Central
This is the game that the original should have been.
|
| 70 |
GMR Magazine
Vastly improved graphics and animations make this practically a new game. [Jan 2003, p.93]
|
| 60 |
games(TM)
Shining Soul II doesn't really pack enough charm to distinguish itself as anything other than a solid yet unspectacular RPG. It even struggles to differentiate itself from the first game, looking and playing almost exactly the same. [Apr 2004, p.101]
|
| 58 |
Play Magazine
The gameplay that's presented is fun, especially with the variety of weapons and upgradeable skills, and the ability to play with four players is much appreciated, but I really wish they'd added more depth and diversity to the experience. [Dec 2003, p.97]
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| 50 |
AceGamez
Shining Soul II suffers from a very flawed combat system, leaving it open to RPG veterans only.
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