Developer: Capcom
Publisher: Capcom
Release date: March 22, 2024
Available on: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S (reviewed on the S)
Capcom returns to the open RPG genre with Dragon’s Dogma 2, the sequel to the 2012 original. Once again, you play as an Arisen, born of battle with a dragon, and you need to make your way in a land filled with dangers, both feral and political. Vocations this time around include Fighter, Thief, Archer, and Mage, with upgraded versions available as you get into the game. Vocations can be changed at a Guild if you’re not happy with a current build. The Guild will also sell you new abilities and augments to make your character stronger. Sticking to just the main story can take 30-40 hours. Adding sidequests can boost your gameplay time to between 80-100 hours, depending on how much a completionist you are.
PROS
Large open world to explore
Choices matter
Good character creator
Plenty of customization
Plenty of content
CONS
Technical, camera issues
No auto advance option for dialogue
Repetitive dialogue, enemy types
Lack of a good fast travel option
Clunky systems
The first game showed plenty of promise, especially with the Dark Arisen expansion. The sequel, however, while moving forward with some things, took steps back in others. Clunky systems (such as saving and healing) don’t help things with their inconsistency, and some technical issues crop up, including botched saves (especially on the Xbox S), framerate, and pop in. Despite its flaws, some fun can be had, as the world (4 times the size of the original) has a lot to explore. The main story is serviceable but meaty, though sidequests can be a mixed bag. Future patches may improve things, but for now it stands as just a decent sequel. Those who revel in more older style RPGs may enjoy this more, while those who enjoy the quality of life improvements in most modern games may experience more frustration.
7/10 stars
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