More of the same...but thats not really a bad thing!
This game is hack and slash and uses very basic ideas from certain RPGs. Instead of the three choices you had in the first game, you can now choose between seven (two unlockables). Each are rather different and allow you to complete the game using some different methods, although the game itself is still very linear. Each character has a side quest which will take shape the further you go in the game. I also think that certain characters are easier to than others. One in particular will allow you to upgrade your skills and wield two handed weapons in hand, meaning you can run at enemies with two great axes or two bastard swords. Another character will allow you to use very powerful spells, meaning a lot of the time, enemies will not be able to get close and you can even ruin the multiplayer experience if going this character, since they will have few enemies to kill. You will venture through many levels, each usually has a boss and certain levels within the level itself such as "Dungeon I", "Dungeon II" and "Dungeon III". You usually face a boss in the final level. You will kill countless enemies, collect gold, aid people who require assistance and trade at your local merchants. It is not original but is still very fun. You can now upgrade your weapons using gems and stones. This is more advanced than it looks as you can really create a really powerful character if take your time and analyse before upgrading. It's the same basic action throughout the game, go to a location, kill, move to another part of that level, kill and then eventually fight a boss. It can be quite tedious at times. The multiplayer is really fun, once or twice I have sat with a friend and completed it in one sitting, you will argue over powerful weapons, drop health incase they have run out and charge into enemy filled areas. It's definetly the best way to play the game!
GRAPHICS 9/10
I personally think the graphics are really good, you will look down on your character from a third person angle, the camera is never annoying as you can spin it round using your back buttons. Water, like in the previous game, looks very detailed and it has a "classic" look to it...like an upgrade of some old PC RPGs. Some areas can look pretty samey but they are still well done really. Animations are pretty decent too
SOUND 7/10
Voice acting is good no question. The music is a let down, it seems to go off at random times and then come back on, sounds very samey and doesn't have an epic adventure theme like most of these types of games. It's a bit of a let down, although the voice acting like I said is good and you will get the odd cry of laughter if you land a critical hit, or a taunt towards your opponent.
VALUE 9/10
Definetly a fun game, especially with a friend. Plenty of replay value as there are unlockable characters and each character really is quite different, although it is a bit linear.
OVERALL 8.5
A game with a decent story, good graphics, interesting gameplay and a brilliant two player mode. It's hard to say this isn't as good as the first, because they are so similar...recommended to fans of classic hack and slash games, Dark Alliance I and even fans of RPGs with a lot more detail like "Oblivion" should like this, I like both. So It's more of the same, but thats not really a bad thing! Enjoy.