Release
Drakengard 2, also known as "Drag-On Dragoon 2" in Japan, is an action role-playing game developed by Cavia and published by Square Enix. Released in 2005 for the PlayStation 2, it serves as a direct sequel to the original "Drakengard" game. The game continues the dark and complex narrative established by its predecessor, set in a medieval fantasy world filled with dragons, magic, and intense battles.
Storyline
The story is set 18 years after the events of the first game and centers on Nowe, a young man raised by a dragon named Legna. Nowe is a member of the Knights of the Seal, an order dedicated to protecting the Seals that maintain peace by suppressing destructive forces. However, as Nowe matures, he begins to question the morality and purpose of the Seals and the true intentions of the Knights of the Seal. This internal conflict propels him into a journey of self-discovery, rebellion, and a quest for truth.
Alongside Nowe is a cast of compelling characters, each with their own motivations and backstories. Key figures include Manah, a mysterious young woman with a troubled past connected to the events of the first game; Eris, a fellow knight and Nowe's childhood friend; and Urick, a former knight who becomes a mentor figure. As Nowe and his companions confront powerful enemies and unravel the secrets of their world, they face morally complex decisions that challenge their beliefs and loyalties.
Gameplay
"Drakengard 2" blends ground-based hack-and-slash combat with aerial dragon-riding sequences, offering a diverse gameplay experience. Players control Nowe on foot, engaging in melee combat with a variety of weapons, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Combat is fluid and intense, requiring players to master combos and strategic use of different weapon types. Nowe can also summon and ride Legna, engaging in aerial battles that involve shooting fireballs and executing powerful dragon attacks.
The game features RPG elements such as leveling up, acquiring new abilities, and managing a party of characters. Each character has unique skills and weaponry that can be upgraded over time. This system adds depth to the gameplay, encouraging players to experiment with different combinations of characters and equipment.
Development and Reception
Developed by Cavia, "Drakengard 2" aimed to refine and build upon the foundations laid by the first game. The developers focused on improving combat mechanics, enhancing graphics, and expanding the storyline to provide a richer and more immersive experience. The game's dark atmosphere, complex narrative, and mature themes have earned it a dedicated fanbase. While it retains the grim tone and unsettling themes of its predecessor, "Drakengard 2" introduces improvements in gameplay mechanics and character development, offering a more polished and engaging experience.
Critics praised the game for its storytelling, character depth, and the seamless integration of ground and aerial combat. However, some noted that it could be repetitive at times and that the graphics, while improved, still showed limitations of the PlayStation 2 hardware.
