Pour yourself a glass of the red stuff and enjoy the story.
Graphics:
When I first played Soul Reaver on the playstation I was immediately grabbed by the graphics. I still think that it is one of the best looking games ever on that system. That continued onto the ps2 with Soul Reaver 2 providing some very nice eye candy. Blood Omen 2 carried on and now , with Defiance we have more of the same. There are few games out there that look better, and then not many have the detail that goes into one of these games. Everything is so meticulously created to look like it belongs in it's gothic type environment. I've always like to just stop and look around at things in these games, not easy to do in this one, but I'll get to that.
Story:
This, unlike almost any other game or series, is about the story. It has been unfolding for years, with bits being added and pieces being answered as you continued to play along with your favorite vampire or wraith. But, on top of the unanswered questions were always many, many more. Now, as you play both main characters for the first time ever, you are compelled more than usual to keep going as the promise of knowing all, finally, get's closer to becoming a reality.
Gameplay:
Gameplay has always been well handled in these games with the ability to lock-on to your opponent or not, a handy little tool when fighting multiple enemies. Combos are not overwhelming and the spells for the reaver are easy to get to. Both Kain and Raziel control the same but have different abilities, this helps with the monotony of the battles which has always affected this series. I have always enjoyed them, as they are not the focal point of the game. The camera in previous games, especially the Soul Reavers, has been awesome. Even on the ps, you could swing around 360 degrees, up around back, whatever, and look at anything you wish. WHY, why, would anyone with a great camera system, dump it for the pathetic excuse of a newer one in this game. It, in a word, sucks. I have never witnessed some of the marvels that this camera has shown to me while playing this title. I have run off so far in the distance I have all but disappeared with no way of knowing where to go or what to do. No camera !! I have been in major battles and been completely blind. Not a little, completely. I had to try and draw my invisible opponent into a different area, hoping the camera would follow. Worst - camera - ever ! There is no excuse for this in a series that is so well known for the breathtaking surroundings and graphics; A camera that limits your views, unbelievable.
Replay:
This game is all about the story. Finish it, and you finish it. Although a second playthrough is often enjoyable, that would be for fans only.
Overall:
These titles have all been adventures. Long, wonderful trips into a complex world that has been alive for eons. Problems with cameras don't matter in the long run. Nothing does. As long as the journey with which we have grown to care about so much continues for as long as possible. This is not a title for newcomers. Those who know nothing about Kain and Raziel could care less about the story, and then pick apart the rest of the game. As for fans, it's a must own. If you don't play this one, then a fan you're not. The story rates a ten, and always has, the rest of it is just gravy.
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