Lufia II
Graphics
I've always thought that this game has what may be the best graphics of any RPG on the SNES. They're really almost flawless, in my opinion. Towns and dungeons are extremely detailed. The style in the towns is similar to Lufia 1, but better and larger. The dungeons do have more of a Zelda-like look, but also share similarities with the original Lufia. Battle look great as well, featuring an interesting view. You see your enemies as if you're actually facing them, rather than seeing them on the left side of the screen, like most other RPG's. Basically, think of the battle graphics as Lufia 1's, but improved in all areas. You have the same system of choosing commands for your party members, too. All done with symbols instead of text.
Gameplay
Lufia 2 has an interesting combination of Zelda-like puzzles and regular men based fights. It is unusual for an RPG to combine these two elements. Generally, an RPG will either having menu based fights with standard nearly puzzle-less dungeons or else have Zelda-style action with many puzzles. This game will make fans of both styles happy. It combines the very best of both systems.
One advantage, or flaw, to the game, depending on how you look at it, is the difficulty of the puzzles. For those that like a challenge, you'll certainly get it from this game. You'll probably want to use some kind of guide eventually, though. It's very difficult to get through the game, even when replaying it, without getting stuck on one of the puzzles. Since there are so many in each of the many dungeons, it's basically impossible to remember how to do all of them after playing the game only once or twice. The puzzles often involve using various tools, such as arrows, swords, bombs, hookshot, etc., to accomplish a given task. Some of them are simple, and some are extremely complicated, like I was saying. They're really fun to try and solve though, and aren't frustrating as long as you do have access to a guide in case you get stuck. Since you're reading this at Gamefaqs, you obviously do
The game is very long, as well, and can take even RPG veterans more than 50 hours to complete. It also contains extras, such as a bonus dungeon with randomly generated floors, and lots of items to find and collect. The game will be even longer if you decide to try some of these optional tasks.
Story
This game doesn't have one of the most well written stories, but it is certainly a big improvement over Lufia 1's story. This game actually takes place before the original. Think of it as a prequel. This game shows the events leading up to the beginning of Lufia 1. The characters in this game are more interesting than in the first game, and the story events themselves are more exciting and really help you enjoy the game. The Sinistrals even seem more evil and interesting in this one.
Sound
Another thing that makes this such a great game is it's music. I really think it's some of the best music in any RPG I've played. It almost always fits the scene perfectly, and there's a lot of different songs, as well. Some nice sound effects as well, such as when you shoot an arrow at a switch, swing your sword, let a bomb explode, etc.
Conclusion
Even though I didn't really like the original Lufia at all, I thought that this game was one of the greatest RPG's ever! I strongly suggest you check it out, especially if you like Zelda-style puzzle solving. This game will last you a good long time, even if you're an RPG expert.
Back