What is it?
Dark Deity 2 is a turn-based tactical RPG and, of course, the sequel to a game called Dark Deity. The story revolves around a group of characters battling evil in a fantasy world. These characters (up to ten at a time) are individually controlled in turn-based battles, which are the bulk of the game. The graphics during battles are pixel based while characters and menus are high resolution. Besides battles there is a lot of dialogue, advancing the plot and letting the player get to know the characters. There will also be quite some time spent in menus where you equip and upgrade characters, buy weapons and stuff, and so on.
Is it player-friendly?
Overall the game is respectfully put together regarding players. There are a few things that could be better, such as the introduction of various gameplay mechanics or the navigation of submenus, but once you understand how things work (which won’t take long, really) things are quite good. Playing with a controller works fine, though one could wish it would be possible to scroll the map using the right thumb stick instead of having to move the character selection square.
The game also has very good difficulty options and modifiers. There is no invincibility option as such, but you can alter various factors such as the strength of the characters, how much money and experience you earn, et cetera, making it possible to finish the game even for people who aren’t interested in struggling and being frustrated. The game will take very long to finish, however. You are looking at two figure hours even on easier difficulties.
Is it any good?
The story isn’t anything special or gripping – usual fantasy stuff with kingdoms and people fighting, intrigues, heroes, royalty and so forth – though there’s nothing wrong with it either. The graphics, both the pixel graphics and the non-pixel character art, are fine. The game is also voiced (in English); quite ambitious. The gameplay is fun and the difficulty options are excellent.
Peter Öberg
A review copy was provided.