How was this better than the latest Final Fantasy? Read to find out.
That being said, Budokai Tenkaichi 2 OWNS.
There hasn't been a fighter this good on the PS2 since the unbelievable Tekken 5, which I plan to review later tonight. Lets start with the graphics. They're not really anything to write home about, although the cel shading is quite good. There are some syncing problems, however, and a few of the costumes, such as Videl's alternate, aren't completely true to the show. Also, there are a few clipping problems when it comes to uneven terrain. Still, the graphics are pretty much true to the show's form, and good enough for me.
Sound-wise, the game is quite good. Kenji Yamamoto returns for this game, and his soundtrack is phenomenal. Tunes like "Gatebreaker" and "Escape To Freedom" will stay in your head from the first time you hear them. The acting in the game leaves alot to be desired, however. The acting is good, don't get me wrong, but about 90% of the voice clips were rehashed from the first Tenkaichi, which is a sign of laziness on the part of Funimation. The gameplay can be summed up in a quote from an IGN review of the game.
"The sheer speed and complexity of the controls may turn some people off, but the general combat will eventually come down to two buttons, making the game amazingly easy to learn, but nearly impossible to fully master."
That statement is true on all levels. Whether you're a casual gamer just wanting to play on your lunch break, or a hardcore gamer wanting an insane challenge, you'll be pleased with this game. What I really like about BT2 is the way the battles can stay true to the show, being fast, frantic, and epic. The only things missing are the awkwardly long pauses while a character powers up. The new experience point system works out great, and allows for much greater customization than the first game. The only real downside is that the game can be a bit too easy at times, even on the highest level of difficulty. For those wanting a challenge from the CPU, you'll definitely be turned off by this.
All in all, this game might end up being the last great PS2 fighter, pending the results of Tenkaichi 3, of course. Whether you're a longtime Dragonball fanatic or just a fighter fan, pick this up. Your thumbs will thank you for it.