Valkyrie Profile 2: Silmeria

The PlayStation 2 has always been a haven for RPG lovers, and though the release of the system's successor is imminent, new entries like Valkyrie Profile 2 remind that you won't need to pawn your internal organs to get a good roleplaying experience.

Norse of a Different Color
PROTIP: Don't just mash attack buttons; time your strikes to yield the highest possible hit combo.

PROTIP: Don't just mash attack buttons; time your strikes to yield the highest possible hit combo.

Like the other titles in the franchise, Valkyrie Profile 2 is steeped heavily in Norse mythology. The titular character Silmeria is imprisoned in the body of Princess Alicia, but the rebellious Valkyrie refuses to remain dormant, and Odin sends Hrist to retrieve her. The story is littered with secrets and betrayals and will easily hold your attention.

Unfortunately, the game's innumerable cut-scenes, though admittedly nice to look at, are long-winded and filled with awkward dialogue sequences, a likely by-product of the translation process. The frequency and duration of the cinematic interludes can also sidetrack players from the action. Thankfully, the actual gameplay makes up for the story-telling deficiencies.

Fight Club
PROTIP: Don't forget to rotate party members through the active attack squad so all can progress.

PROTIP: Don't forget to rotate party members through the active attack squad so all can progress.

The basic mechanics of fighting are simple, with only one attack button for each character, but interesting additions lend a considerable degree of depth to what could have otherwise been a mindless button mashing exercise. Every group of baddies has a leader, indicated on the overhead radar, and killing him automatically wins the conflict.

Walls and other bits of scenery can crumble, revealing enemy reinforcements at inopportune moments. Your squad of four can be broken up into flanking groups to distract and destroy stronger opponents, and some weapons possess devastating special attacks.

PROTIP: With a little practice, you can dash across red attack zones to beat down baddies without taking a hit.

PROTIP: With a little practice, you can dash across red attack zones to beat down baddies without taking a hit.

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