Yoherz's detailed review of .hack//G.U. Vol.2/Reminisce
Gamespot rating - 5.7/10
Player census - 9.5/10
Storyline - 10/10
Sound - 9/10
Gameplay - 10/10
Value - 10/10
Graphics - 10/10
This game itself is simply amazing. It had already worked it's way to #2 on my top 10 list before I was even half way through it. Nonetheless, onto the review. ^_^
The storyline starts out a bit slow and you're mostly watching cutscenes explaining things from vol. 1 and the such. Though, this is very forgivable and easily forgettable later on when the storyline really gets interesting. I can't really say too much without ruining the storyline, except that if you enjoyed vol. 1's storyline, you're going to absolutely love this. It's even better!
The music is still excellent, as always. There aren't as many new songs as vol. 1, but they're high quality. Each song is subtle during battle and cutscenes as to not overpower the voices and distract you. If you really like a song, you can unlock it during gameplay and have it play on your desktop when you log out of The World allowing you to hear any song you want to, as much as you want to. :)
Also, if you liked any cutscenes in the game or any pictures you find on the forums, they get downloaded to your computer (in the game) so you can watch them later on in the game. If you can get lucky and find one of the first versions of it, you'll even find that they have the very first episode of .hack//roots in there. :D
The battles are still completely real-time and fun. Ontop of using the dual swords and broadsword from the previous game, if you complete a certain sidequest, you get a scythe! Not just a regular scythe though. Your first scythe even has a chainsaw on the blade! Along with this new scythe, you get a cool look and can use multiple skill triggers no matter what weapon you have equipped.
The avatar battles have been greatly improved (aside from one boss) and made significantly easier. Plus, your avatar/epitaph even gets pimped out once you get the final job extension!
I got this game for $45 because I had it on reserve (got a discount) and I say it was worth every penny. I would have gladly paid $50 had I known the greatness of this game. Definately worth the money for any RPG fanatic.
The graphics are astounding. There's so much time and detail put into the areas that I really can't believe it. The sunsets are almost real and the moon is beautiful in the night areas. There's about 10 different types of areas in the second game alone (not including vol. 1) and they sometimes comment on things like, "The mist tint is just right here so that it's clear enough to see, but still has that effect", which is totally true. I haven't seen more realistic grapihcs anywhere. You could actually sit there and just stare at the screen to see the beauty of the moon without even walking outside.