Awkward controls and poor changes made this a poor game. The rest is average for a PS2 game.
Graphics: 6
The designers on the characters and enemies are interesting and are the best part of the game in my opinion. Also the levels in the game really fit well together. It's a well done in that area. Nice port however some of the models not bad, the textures are sometimes ugly and it makes some of levels look bland. Also many parts of the game have been dull down from the Dreamcast version
Story: 6
Dont brother if you already played the Dreamcast version, interesting concept of the sword however some parts of the story aren't worth watching on the PS2. The story choices aren't worth going thou, unless you're a hardcore Altus fan. Character development was mild, however just a brief intro to most also the main characters, also considering it's a port, there should of added more content.
Gameplay: 6
It's good, however that's really about it. The biggests feature is brainjack, which allows the sword to take control of the carrier where you'll get to control. Each person has a unique fighting style and can earn more attacks as time goes on. When the player defeats an enemy. The player earns images points. These points are like ingame currency to brainjack other characters in the game. The new take from the PS2 version is interesting, however there isn't really much going for it.
The combat is simple, with the simple lock on and attack. The game also has added elements such as deflecting bullets which can destory enemies. The player can also make multiple choices which effects the games story. However there not really much of it. Also the game offers 7 different endings depending on these choices... so it adds some value to the game.
I would say that the gameplay gets broken because of the sluggish and sometimes annoying controls. Also the game is short lived after completing it, however the player could re-explore the game if they wanted too... however it just isn't worth it.
Controls: 5
Considering it's a third person, it's difficult and often frusturating to actully pull off and see what on earth the character is going. Sometimes getting hit by the enemy often gets a cheap death, even while locking onto enemies. You simply have problems seeing what's going in front of you. They should of just kept it in first person.
Audio/Music: 7
The music isn't that bad... good mix. However the down side to that is has trouble setting the mood in some areas, meanwhile in other areas, it's does a good job. The sound effects work well with the game and enivornment.
Overall 6
Average really... the controls are the biggest letdown and it really effects how you're really playing the game. It adds weight on the games story and considering it's a port, they should of just left it on the Dreamcast. Also for a PS2 game... they could of added a special feature or story to add value, instead it was a fast port onto the PS2. If you still have the Dreamcast, buy that DC version instead. as it's much more engaging.