Not sure why you all hate this game
Firstly, it improves all of the annoying aspects of Norrath. Gate Scrolls now allow you to teleport directley back to where you were without running all over the place covering ground you previously went through. It also improves on character devlopment, and spell useage, now with a simple push of the D-pad plus the box button you can cast more than just two spells quickly adding more diversity.
This game is a superb, yes superb 2-player game for those of you that love co-op play. In fact I've played through this game 3-4 times, only once in single player mode. Multiplayer mode is fun, and working together is a must. Probably THE greatest 2 player co-op game on the ps2 to date.
Sound does enough, graphics are what you would expect from the champions series, and the random map generators add replay value as does varying skill levels to play through the missions, an arena mode as well as online play.
This game is a must have, especially now that you can find this title for real cheap.
The only down side is that you will find yourself going through the same areas, meeting the same characters, and in some cases seeking out the same exact item (Kerriel's Conch Shell, for example).