The tragedy of Raziel continues in the next thrilling installment of the Legacy of Kain.
The first thing many players notice is that all those glyphs and life-extensions that were earned in Soul Reaver are gone. The explanation offered is that Raziel is now in a time where glyphs are not yet known (we later learn they are a Hylden creation, so could only be possible after the events of BO2). Raziel can still pick up all sorts of weaponry (swords, axes, and spears of many styles) that all have unique attack patterns and "finishing" moves. Raziel can now block, which is great because the enemies are much smarter and dangerous. Seriously, a group of enemies poses a real risk to Raziel, especially in the world where Demons have been unleashed (those big red bastards are killer). To combat this, the Reaver is now available at any time and not just when at full health. Unfortunately, the Reaver will feed on Raziel's life force when it is over-used (although the wraith-blade becomes more and more powerful). The Reaver can now be imbued with elemental properties (the fire reaver from SR1 has been lost but can be regained late in the game) and can still shoot blasts of energy that can be used for offense or for puzzles.
Humans are different in this time; their souls must be forced out of their bodies, they will fight back viciously, and they will always attack Raziel even if a common enemy is present (demons). Raziel retains all of his physical abilities, such as climbing, gliding, and such. These are needed for the multiple puzzles found in each level, all of which are much more ingenious than those found in SR1 (less blocks).
The "god" that supposedly resurrected Raziel exists in this time as well, fully aware of all that occurs in the far future. He isn't so tender towards his angel of death, and Raziel too distrusts his squid-like buddy. This newfound independence peels away the go-fer feeling of tasks.
The graphics are splendid, some of the best I have ever seen. The levels are so well-rendered that it is easy to lose track of duty. Character animations are very smooth, and this helps respond to enemy attacks. Speaking of which, this game certainly promotes an opportunist approach to combat; don't join a brawl until as many possible fatalities have occurred so Raz can stand far away and suck down some souls. Of course, when you walk into a demon trap, you need to take down the baddies with Buster Douglas-style fighting; bide your time, take a few shots, and repeat until victory.
The sound effects are cleaned up to sound more real, but the music seems simplified. It seemed like there were fewer changes in background music when situation change (combat to peace et vice versa). What music is present is great, but there could have been more variety. The voice acting is awesome, with full facial animation to acompany each word (except Raziel, but he lacks a lower jaw for cryin' out loud).
All told, Soul Reaver 2 is probably the best Legacy of Kain game available when one considers graphics, gameplay, and story. SR2 is probably available for less than $10, so if you liked SR1, go get it!