I love that GOG made this DRM free, I love the world this game is set in with all the monster lore, sorcery, alchemy, and such. But... it's just bad at the same time. My greatest complaint is that some of the strengths of the first game are gone, and combat can just be frustrating in a bad way. No longer can you pop a potion in mid fight, but rather a ridiculous mediation mechanic is required that is absurd. Some might say that's more sensible, but why I can oil my sword from the item menu and not take a potion? Arguably that's more time consuming. In addition, dodging doesn't really work that well, hit/collision detection is abysmal, the ridiculous sword flourishes leave you exposed, and sometimes when you restart a fight it will literally start up with you taking a hit before you can move. There's so much I love about this game and it's potential... maybe it's because it was developed in mind for consoles, but so many of the faulty aspects just make me all the more frustrated because a truly great game was not properly realized.
Bought this a while back, and I find myself unable to adequately describe just how much I enjoyed this game. They could invite me to go on Epic Meal Time, play roshambo with johnny knoxville, and go on an extended stay in the playboy mansion... and that may only be slightly better time than playing this game. But seriously, this is why indie games are so freaking great. One guy with volunteers (who I believe were later compensated) manages to put out a masterpiece that I honestly give more f**ks about than the recent AAA crapfests. How great is that? The artwork and environments are good and vary, combat is beautifully fluid, and the story actually engaged my jaded heart. I do wish there were more bosses, and a slightly expanded combo list... but this game is totally worth it, hands down.
Purchased previously on Gamespot, and it was totally worth my money. It was so good I'm going to repurchase it again on here. Dialogue and story are cliche but a delicious kind of cliche. Combat and the RPG mechanics are easy to work with and enjoyable. Not to mention the bosses are epic... except the 4th boss... I hate the 4th boss. It's a love kind of hate, but if you'll either go insane or look up a guide to beat it. Magic is an interesting system, you collect essence of different types of magic and use them with purchased spells that use the same essence type. But you'll need to focus on conservation to a degree or be prepared to farm if you're going the magi character build. The magic variety is good though, and can help you overcome difficult situations with some forethought. Overall it's a good tribute sort of game, and I'd highly recommend it. Also, don't go into the bathroom without a lighter. Seriously.
