Summary
- Release Year: 2006
- Genres: Role-playing game (RPG)
- Platforms: PlayStation 2
- Developers: CyberConnect2
- Publishers: Bandai, Namco Bandai Games
.hack//G.U. Vol. 2: Reminisce is the second entry in the .hack//G.U. series, a trilogy of action role-playing games developed by CyberConnect2 and published by Bandai Namco Games. The game was released in Japan on March 23, 2006, and in North America and Europe in September 2006. It is a direct sequel to .hack//G.U. Vol. 1: Rebirth, and is followed by .hack//G.U. Vol. 3: Redemption.
As in the previous .hack games, .hack//G.U. simulates a massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG) as the player controls a character who starts playing it. In Reminisce, the player assumes the role of Haseo, a player character who is searching for his friend, Shino, who has disappeared within the game world.
.hack//G.U. Vol. 2: Reminisce features a number of improvements over its predecessor, including a more refined combat system, a more expansive story, and a more robust online component. The game also introduces a number of new features, such as the ability to change weapons in the middle of Skill Triggers, and the addition of an optional card game called “Crimson VS”.
One of the most striking things about .hack//G.U. Vol. 2: Reminisce is its visuals. The game’s graphics are some of the best on the PlayStation 2, and the character models are particularly impressive. The game’s environments are also very well-realized, and the attention to detail is evident in every scene.
The combat in .hack//G.U. Vol. 2: Reminisce is fast-paced and exciting. The player controls Haseo directly, while the other characters are controlled by artificial intelligence. The player can either provide guidelines (“Free Will”, “Rage”, “Life”, etc.) or issue direct commands (for example, to cast a particular magic at a particular enemy) to the computer-controlled characters.
One of the new features in .hack//G.U. Vol. 2: Reminisce is the ability to change weapons in the middle of Skill Triggers. This allows the player to adapt their combat strategy on the fly, and it adds a new level of depth to the combat system.
Another new feature in .hack//G.U. Vol. 2: Reminisce is the addition of an optional card game called “Crimson VS”. Crimson VS is a turn-based card game that can be played against other players online or against the computer. The game is simple to learn, but it offers a surprising amount of depth and strategy.
The story in .hack//G.U. Vol. 2: Reminisce is well-written and engaging. The game’s characters are well-developed and relatable, and the plot is full of twists and turns. The game also does a good job of exploring the themes of friendship, loss, and redemption.
The online component in .hack//G.U. Vol. 2: Reminisce is robust and well-featured. The game offers a variety of online modes, including player-versus-player battles, co-operative quests, and guild wars. The online community is also very active, and there are always plenty of people to play with.
Overall, .hack//G.U. Vol. 2: Reminisce is an excellent action RPG with a deep and engaging story. It’s a must-play for fans of the series or anyone looking for a great JRPG on the PlayStation 2.
Score: 8.5/10
Review Score
8.5/10
Art
Cover Art
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