Full Review for Red Steel 2 by BURNOUTFREAK

Introduction

The Wii has a reputation for producing "casual games" which is not an entirely bad thing though other gamers often look down on this. I've never played the original Red Steel so this was the first time I've played a "hardcore" game on the Wii so I was rather excited when I recieved this game as a gift. From the first moment where our nameless hero is dragged with a chain on a motorcycle, you feel involved in the action and as the game progresses, blanks are filled and the big picture is shown. You immediately feel the need for vengeance to those that have wronged you and this is where the fun really begins.

Graphics

You have to remember, this is a Wii title. The Wii has never been known for it's flashy graphics. This game's unique art style which mixes Japanese MMORPG and traditional western style fits excellently. The characters are well designed and the environment looks realistic. Weapons look life-like but vehicles can sometimes look a tad sloppy, especially when blown up. Overall a great look.

Sound

The sound of this game is astounding, there is always music playing that always seems to fit the mood. As you are exploring the music will get slower and quieter and the pace will speed up if you encounter enemies with some audible guitar going on in the background. The sound that metal, wood or sand makes when shot, sliced or splintered is always spot on.

Gameplay

With the Wii controller for your guns and katana and your nunchuck for moving, it seems like a complicated control system but it's surprisingly easy to master. The sword combat system makes it seem as if you are truly cutting down enemy after enemy, with thrusts, cuts and slices while blocking their katana's with your own. The enemies are pretty simple, with the occasional boss thrown in to spice things up. The missions are linear though there are some side quests like activating communication towers which usually involves hacking it with your communicator. You learn more moves as you defeat important enemies and you can buy weapon upgrades and finishers too with the money that you gain from quests or the various barrels, and misc. Objects. I never continue with my mission unless every bit of destructible object is harvested for gold.

Lastability

I'm on my second play through right now, what does that tell you? It's too much fun to play only once and there are various extra modes you can unlock too which keeps you coming back for more. There are tons of secrets including, tokens, "sherrif stars" and lots of gold which you can get if you didn't get it all the first time.

Overall

Yep this sure is a jewel for the Wii and it sets an example for future developers to further prove that the Wii is capable of more than "kiddies titles". Extremely fun to play, though the lack of multiplayer is tad bit disappointing. If you have to play one Wii game in your life, strongly consider this one.

Final Score: 88%