Adding a whole new level to survival horror.
The story is a refreshment from the typical survival horror game. Two twins, one village, one Ritual, one twin must kill the other...you get it. Quite different, wouldn't you say? The plot, maybe becoming a little bit dull at a couple points with the constant "see your sister, chase after her, lose her again, see her, follow her, lose her, etc." actions, is still all around quite good. For this one, there is no need to play the others before this as it has a stand-alone story. Although, I must be honest. I had expected more from the plot. But even after, it is still something be appreciated for sure.
The character development is fairly good. The characters are a bit bland in some ways but in others are quite detailed with in-depth personalities that correspond to everyone/everything else in the game. And, in my opinion, the voice acting is pretty good too. No need to use the original Japanese language with subtitles here. ^_~
The graphics are excellent. Just running around will send chills down your spine with how detailed things are, whether it be the blood splattered on the ground or the face of the ghost you just took a picture of.
Now...for the scare factor. You've been waiting for it, haven't you? So...this game scares the crud out of you. Like I said, Resident Evil will no longer be scary (if it even was before) after playing this. The ghost encounters are random at some points and many times, appear out of nowhere without warning. The atmosphere is just creepy in every area, doesn't really matter where. Going through a door? You'll develop a feeling of dread as you do so. The sharp music (from the approach of a ghost) is also a good way to startle yourself. Not all ghosts are dangerous however. Some simply walk past (take a picture anyways!) but the fact that they suddenly appeared there will be enough to make you jump.
However...I must say, you might start to develop a slight immunity to the ghosts as you get closer to the end of the game. They don't get less scary...you simply get used to seeing them. It probably won't be as scary by the end as if you had just started it (never is) but it is still very good.
There are three different endings, depending on the difficulty you choose. With having 4 difficulty settings, unlockable costumes, unlockable ghosts, and missions, there is surely a reason to replay Fatal Frame 2.
Tip: Best ways to play are either in the dark alone or in the dark with a group of friends. ^_~