Knights of the Old Republic, an epic game at worst, an outstanding one at best. So when LucasArts decided to produce a sequel, how did they propose to go ahead? Where would the story take us? Would we be diving into the depths of where Revan had gone, or would they decide to go with the grim task of picking up the ruins that make up the Republic?
At first I assumed that LucasArts were playing it safe when I realised that the game was Republic-based and not off into the unknown with Revan. I think personally that the Revan storyline would be a much better game and tale to tell. But was I disappointed in what I got from KOTOR2? The answer, bluntly, is "no". Using up-to-date technology, increasing the game play and the manoeuverability, this game blasts to the top of the pile of "amazing games" which surround the market.
By far the best game out for the X-Box since its release in many peoples opinion, the game picks up four years after the end of KOTOR1: the Republic is in ruins, and they are slowly trying to rebuild. The Jedi have all been wiped out by the deranged and scattered Sith lords, each of which is vying to become all-powerful after the downfall of Malak at the hands of Revan, at the end of KOTOR1. The story follows an ex-Jedi, outcast for his decision to join Revan and Malak, though he later abandoned their road down the darkside and accepted Jedi punishment.
Throughout the game the sly manipulation of the other charactersplayable and non playableand the way you influence them, plus whether you join the Dark side or the Light side, plays a role of vital importance to your character's outcome. Every response has to be measured, every credit spent wisely on characters you use, and minor details remembered. The game also revamps the modification system from its predecessor. In the original KOTOR, guns, sabers, swords, and armour were all modifiable, and they remain so in this rendition. Now, however, the player has the option of making their own items if they have the correct ingredients, including stimulants and meds.
The skill trees in KOTOR2 again make a vital part of your character's role in the game. A good persuasion ensures good trade deals and easy talking to NPCs, whereas a good computer skill reduces the amount of spikes needed to slice a computer, or open a door. There is also more opportunity to bring several more Jedi into your team. Playing your cards right you could have a team of 4+ Jedi, all with good skills.
KOTOR2 is full of intrigue, deception and subterfuge, creating that all-too-well-known feeling of Star Wars throughout (no Star Wars story is any good without it), while also cotaining that unique blend of puzzles and storylines to keep the tale on course and "edge of the chair" exciting.
All in all, this game gets 6 stars out of 5 for its blend of excellent game play, graphics, storyline, and playability.
I'd recommend this to anyone, as it also restored my faith in Star Wars.
http://www.lucasarts.com/games/swkotor_sithlords/
