If Parasite Eve was the cinematic equivalent of a box office bomb, then PE2 is to be compared to a mega-blockbuster. Although baring much similarity in style to the first game, this amazing sequel has literally NOTHING in common with the original in the gameplay department. As Parasite Eve disappointed players with its shallow plot, annoying gameplay and rather stupid systems and rather limited areas of exploration, Parasite Eve 2 will surprise gamers who were turned off by the original. PE2 offers a totally rewritten gameplay engine, a much superior plotline, and an overall rewarding gameplay experience.

Graphics -- 90%

From the opening FMV that resembles a top-notch Hollywood trailer to the in-game graphics that rival the Resident Evil series both in quality and style, whether or not you enjoyed the original game you will be dazzled by the sequel. The quality of the FMVs are extremely impressive, the characters move with the utmost realism, and the scenes are directed with the expertise of the top Hollywood action movie directors. Even the in-game engine is impressive, with its pre-rendered backgrounds and high-polygon model characters and enemies. In a few (VERY few) selected scenes, the background is FMV by itself, which moves along with Aya. Graphically, this game does not disappoint in anyway and ranks as one of the top graphical showcases along with Resident Evil 2 & 3, Final Fantasy 8, Parasite Eve 1, RRT4 and Grand Tourismo.

Sound/Music -- 75%

Once again voice is missing from a title that just screams MOVIE. Although the lack of full voice acting leaves a gap of silence in the game, there are a limited number of voice samples used at key moments (breathing sounds, FREEZE!!, Ayaaaaaaaaaaa!, crying sounds, evil laughter sounds, etc) The sound effects are extremely impressive and sound as good as RE2 & 3. The music does a decent job of not getting in the way of the game but doesn't impress much either (although there are some good tracks). Full-featured voice acting would have truly added a whole new dimension to the game, but so far it's good enough as it stands (hey but there's always a PE3 to hope for!).

Control -- 80%

Don't have to say much here. It controls exactly like the RE games. Left/right turns, Up moves forward, Down moves back, analog stick runs when pushed all the way, Square is aim/cast, Triangle is select spell, Circle is activate/cast, R1 is primary fire, R2 is secondary fire. X is cancel, Start is inventory, Select is map. Control is responsive and will make any RE player feel right at home.

Story -- 85%

A major improvement over the first game's rather straightforward and poorly plotted story. PE2's plot plays like a major big-budget sci-fi action thriller. A well designed opening credits scene, a major building explosion scene in the beginning, a shower scene, government conspiracies, mitochondria experiments, cloning, cool monsters, and hi-tech underground...erm... better stop before the spoilers turn up. This game has every ingredient needed for the ultimate "cinematic adventure".

Gameplay -- 70%

The game plays like Resident Evil, but each time you target an enemy in a new room or when the enemy sees you, PE1's famous black and white flash appear with the heartbeat sound. After that the game resumes in real time. If you kill all the enemies in the area you gain exp., BP and regain some HP and MP. If you run to another area without clearing the enemies, you lose 10 BP but escape. BP works like cash and allows you to buy weapons, bullets, armor and items at selected places. There are no levels in PE2, instead exp. points are used to regain your Parasite Energy (spells) or to level up spells you already regained. There are 4 elements and 2 spells of each element. They each go 3 levels before maxing out. There are 3rd spells for each element that are like secrets in the game. They can be gained by finding secret items. Similar to PE1, your armor has "attachment" slots and while in battle mode you can only use items that are attached. As far as gameplay goes, it's extremely fun but if only there were more intelligent bosses and more of them. My end game clocked at 7:15 hours so it isn't much longer than the first game either (I completed PE1 in 5:45 hours). After finishing the game once, you have to option to play Replay mode or Bounty mode, I haven't checked out Bounty mode yet (although the game claims it's harder than normal with less BP and more enemies) but Replay mode offers the same game in an easier package. You start with half your endgame EXP and BP, I believe, EXP requirements for spells are lowered, you can buy the spells back at the level they were at endgame at your HQ, and bonus items can be found in the storing box, etc. I'll probably play the game again to tie up some uncovered areas and stuff I left out the first time through.

Well what can I say? If you like RE then you'll DEFINITELY want to check this one out. Fans of PE1 would also be interested as the story is a direct continuation of the original's. All in all PE2 is an impressive action adventure game that is NOT to be mistaken for an RPG (unlike the first).