Blasphemous 2

(>1100 characters had to be removed from the original review, so just some notes on combat and music) Parry and riposte approach to combat is satisfying - two weapons allow it with different effects - single sword will perform a multihit similar to the first game. Additionally, it will charge up the special ability meter which - when activated - boosts damage and can also leech health. Dual swords will perform a dash stab that puts the player behind the enemy, can hit extra enemies far away and charges the swords with lightning effect boosting damage. While not every attack can be riposted, there are more opportunities compared to the first game, especially in boss fights. Music: Blasphemous 2 would not be a Blasphemous game without Carlos Viola's score. The first game provided a unique blend of acoustic and electric strings, percussion and piano, which effectively conveyed the mood of locations. Example - "Saetas De Altos Balcones" expressing determination and nearing culmination as the main character approaches the game's finale. Second example - "Cantes de Confesion" with its ostinatos and lamenting guitars is sad yet peaceful and nostalgic. Its variation is also the theme linked to Viridiana and describes her fate well. Blasphemous II's music follows the first game's approach, and I would say that it has even more hits. Two contrasting examples: "Corona de Siete Azahares" (Crown of Towers) and "Clavada" (The Severed Tower) - both tracks describe conquering of two towers, yet one is a heroic ascent, and the other one - a tragic descent. Importantly, almost all motives are fresh new, and when they do cite themes from the first game, they do that to a great effect. A particular crucial boss's battle music citing Esdras+Sister theme and later introducing Crisanta's theme during an epic anime phase transition with iconic Artorias pose and explosions destroying the world = 10/10. Worth to mention that sound quality of digital soundtrack available on GOG is good.

I loved the first game and I love the second. Some of the visuals are simply work of art. Not usual. Fine art of the highiest caliber. Fantastic gameplay, rewarding boss fights. Just great overall game. As many I can only hope for DLC to once again enter that stunningly beautiful world of Blasphemous.

On it's own it's fun well made metroidvania but a bit disappointing sequel. Graphic and music are still great. Pixel art is maybe better than in the first Blasphemous and music by Carlos Viola is still godly. Gameplay is a bit better, no more instant deaths, nice new skills and weapon system, fighting and moving seem more fluid. So why I think it's weaker? First gone is the challange, bosses are too easy except for Eviterno, rest of the game medium difficulty at best. Fortunately game is long enough. Setting and story is weaker. Most of the bosses and npc are not really memorable. Areas look good but feel disjointed and mood of the game is much less opresive and dark. Also got 2 weird bugs. First I couldn't access menu after finding new items, I had to move a little. Second music sometimes too late after entering new area. PS I'm waiting for some DLC so I could replay Blasphemous 2. It's really good game just not on the level of the first one.

Great Metroidvania, the story, the characters, the art! *chefs kiss*

Loved the first one and loving this one so far. A good balance of differences and similarities, although I'm finding the timing and precision needed in combat a bit more demanding. Worth playing in the original language, for Spanish speakers.