Wild Arms 2, while having slightly mediocre production values, was a fantastic RPG with good gameplay.
While it's easy to spot graphical flaws and the battle system itself has not changed, Wild Arms 2 had a fantastically unique leveling system and an amazing plot, neither of which are given any acknowledgment in the Gamespot review.
In introducing the Personal Skills feature, Wild Arms 2 made each character deeply customizeable. The skills included things like increased critical hit, counter and block chance, resistance to certain status ailments, magic and physical strengths, and even the restoration of HP in certain situations. The PSS system, along with the Zoa Priest, Bounty Hunter and Crimson Noble ability sets, added a strong depth to the gameplay.
While i shan't reveal anything about the plot, I speak for any people who have played and beaten the game that it rivals, if not exceeds, that of Final Fantasy VII.
Wild Arms 2 is a definite must play. If the opportunity arises I strongly recommend picking it up and playing it, despite any visual shortcomings.