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Finally got around to the second game in the Atelier Ryza trilogy.
TL;DR: it’s better than the first game in every single way. Bigger, prettier, and the tutorials actually help this time. Also, zero grind. It might feel like there is at first, but it passes. Otherwise, it’s good old Ryza.
Plat time: 57h (console timer)
Played totally blind. Only looked up a few recipes for the post-game cleanup. If you use a guide from the start, you can easily do it way faster.
Pros:
- Gorgeous visuals, literally feels like playing an anime
- Diverse locations and better exploration mechanics
- Great new characters (plus returning favorites)
- Revamped combat – much more beginner-friendly and way more dynamic
- Fi 🙂
- Alchemy is even deeper now. You can craft ridiculously OP gear, but it's rather unnecessary (I beat the game using just chest loot, on very easy of course)
- Everything unlocks naturally as you progress, no more annoying grind
- Solid trophy list, only a few actually require a guide
Cons:
- The post-game superboss is just overcomplicated (you'll understand, trust me 🤣)
- Really hoped a few specific NPCs would join the party, but nope
- Mid story (pretty standard for modern JRPGs tbh)
Game Score: 10/10 - Amazing JRPG, massive amount of content, great cast, and beautiful visuals.
For Trophy Hunters: 9/10 - Nothing difficult, but you need the right approach since the core mechanics are pretty unique.
TL;DR: it’s better than the first game in every single way. Bigger, prettier, and the tutorials actually help this time. Also, zero grind. It might feel like there is at first, but it passes. Otherwise, it’s good old Ryza.
Plat time: 57h (console timer)
Played totally blind. Only looked up a few recipes for the post-game cleanup. If you use a guide from the start, you can easily do it way faster.
Pros:
- Gorgeous visuals, literally feels like playing an anime
- Diverse locations and better exploration mechanics
- Great new characters (plus returning favorites)
- Revamped combat – much more beginner-friendly and way more dynamic
- Fi 🙂
- Alchemy is even deeper now. You can craft ridiculously OP gear, but it's rather unnecessary (I beat the game using just chest loot, on very easy of course)
- Everything unlocks naturally as you progress, no more annoying grind
- Solid trophy list, only a few actually require a guide
Cons:
- The post-game superboss is just overcomplicated (you'll understand, trust me 🤣)
- Really hoped a few specific NPCs would join the party, but nope
- Mid story (pretty standard for modern JRPGs tbh)
Game Score: 10/10 - Amazing JRPG, massive amount of content, great cast, and beautiful visuals.
For Trophy Hunters: 9/10 - Nothing difficult, but you need the right approach since the core mechanics are pretty unique.