| System: Playstation | Developer: Matrix/Contrail |
| Because FlyingOmelette.com has experienced so many problems in the past few months, I didn't get around to writing "Game of the Month" for October. I said last year that I was going to write one for a Castlevania game after that Banjo-Kazooie fiasco, but I just didn't have the time to dedicate to it this year. Therefore, I'm naming Alundra 2 the "Game of the Month" for this year. However, there isn't much I can say about the game that wasn't already covered in my recent review, therefore, I'm just going to cut right to the chase here... |  |
 |
In terms of story and atmosphere, Alundra 1 and 2 are apples and oranges. In fact, there isn't any real reason this game needed to be called "Alundra 2" because they bear no connections. But in terms of gameplay, both Alundra 1 and 2 are extremely challenging, with some of the most creative and innovative dungeon puzzles ever conceived, and stellar multi-part boss battles. This is one of the few adventure game series that actually stacks up to Nintendo's infamous Legend of Zelda series, and in many ways, equals or surpasses them. Alundra 1 wasn't the most popular Playstation game around, and Alundra 2 wasn't well-received by game critics everywhere (sans this one). But I believe a large part of that is due to how difficult they are. But as someone who was raised on the highly-challenging games of the 8- and 16-bit eras, I can appreciate the challenges that the Alundra games have to offer. |
|
Alundra 2's graphics are, by PS1 standards, subpar to say the least, but it didn't really detract from my enjoyment of the game. Like Dark Savior before it, Alundra 2 often uses the 3D space as part of its level design, as opposed to being just another visual trick. Alundra 2 was also one of the first games I ever played that actually had decent voice acting, thanks heavily to the efforts of veteran VA's Earl Boen, BJ Ward, Jennifer Hale, Scott Menville, and Dee Bradley Baker. Although the plot is strange and filled with lots of goofiness, it actually is funny at times. I'm just hoping that someday the people who worked on the Alundra games and Dark Savior either make another sequel or a completely new game. Such talents like what they have shouldn't go to waste. |
 |
Anyone who goes to my forums can tell you that whenever I see someone complaining that some Zelda game was "too easy", I always suggest trying the Alundra games. Yes, it makes me annoying, but I just can't stress it enough. |
 |
|
 |