Is Ni no Kuni 2 Worth Buying? A Deep Dive into Revenant Kingdom
Yes, absolutely. Ni no Kuni II: Revenant Kingdom is a worthwhile purchase for fans of JRPGs, especially those who appreciate beautiful art styles, engaging stories, and deep gameplay mechanics. While it departs from some of the core features of its predecessor, Ni no Kuni: Wrath of the White Witch, it establishes its own identity with a focus on kingdom building, strategic combat, and a heartwarming narrative. Whether you’re a newcomer to the series or a seasoned JRPG veteran, Ni no Kuni II offers an experience that is both captivating and rewarding, making it a solid addition to any gamer’s library. It might even be argued that in many respects, it actually surpasses the original.
A Kingdom to Build, a World to Save
Ni no Kuni II places you in the role of Evan Pettiwhisker Tildrum, a young boy thrust into the position of king after a coup overthrows his kingdom. Instead of just focusing on linear quests, you’re tasked with establishing your own kingdom, Evermore, from the ground up. This kingdom-building mechanic is a major draw, allowing you to recruit citizens, build facilities, research technology, and expand your influence across the world. This provides a sense of ownership and progress, making the game feel less like a simple adventure and more like a grand undertaking with lasting consequences.
Not Just a Kingdom Sim
While kingdom building is a significant aspect, it doesn’t overshadow the core JRPG experience. Ni no Kuni II features a rich story with memorable characters, a vibrant world to explore, and engaging combat. The real-time battle system is fluid and strategic, allowing you to swap between party members and utilize various skills and spells. The Higgledies, small elemental creatures, add another layer of depth to combat, offering buffs and strategic advantages. The game also boasts a large array of side quests, providing ample opportunity to delve into the lore and meet the world’s unique inhabitants.
Departures from the First Game
It’s crucial to acknowledge that Ni no Kuni II differs significantly from the first game. The monster-recruiting system, a hallmark of Wrath of the White Witch, is absent. Instead, combat revolves around the previously mentioned Higgledies. Some long-time fans of the series might find this change disappointing. However, it is this departure that allows Ni no Kuni II to forge its own path and introduce a new gameplay loop that, in many ways, is more streamlined.
Pacing and Accessibility
One of the key improvements in Ni no Kuni II is its pacing. The first game often required grinding to level up and progress, whereas the sequel provides a more even-handed experience. This makes the game more accessible to those who might find traditional JRPG grinding tedious. However, if you crave a challenge, the game has added difficulty options to enhance your gameplay experience. Hard and Expert difficulties cater to players seeking a more demanding experience, while the base game remains approachable for new players.
The Visual and Auditory Delight
Beyond its gameplay mechanics, Ni no Kuni II is a visual and auditory masterpiece. The game’s vibrant art style, while not directly involving Studio Ghibli as much as the first game, maintains the same whimsical charm. The world is stunningly rendered, with each location bursting with life and personality. The music is equally impressive, featuring a beautiful score that perfectly complements the game’s emotional tones. From sweeping orchestral pieces to upbeat melodies, the soundtrack enhances the experience, and creates a truly unforgettable atmosphere.
Verdict: A Worthwhile Journey
Ni no Kuni II is not simply a sequel; it’s a worthy successor. It takes the enchanting foundation laid by the first game and builds upon it with new mechanics, beautiful visuals, and a memorable story. While the changes it makes may not satisfy all fans of the original, they contribute to a game that is ultimately more polished, accessible, and engaging for a broader audience. If you are looking for a game that will capture your heart with its story and visuals, while offering a rewarding and extensive gameplay loop, Ni no Kuni II: Revenant Kingdom is undoubtedly worth buying.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is Ni no Kuni II as good as Ni no Kuni?
This is subjective. While some miss the monster-recruiting system of the first game, Ni no Kuni II is considered superior in many aspects, boasting better pacing, a more streamlined experience, and enhanced combat mechanics. Both games offer unique strengths, but it’s not a simple case of one being definitively better than the other.
How many hours is Ni no Kuni 2?
The main story of Ni no Kuni II: Revenant Kingdom takes approximately 39 hours to complete. However, if you aim for 100% completion, including side quests and kingdom building, expect to invest around 93 hours.
Should I buy Ni no Kuni 2 on Reddit?
Many Reddit users who have played both games praise Ni no Kuni II’s improved pacing, which significantly reduces the need for grinding. If you enjoyed the original, there’s a strong chance you will enjoy the sequel too. It’s recommended to read specific discussions and consider your gaming preferences.
Should I play Ni no Kuni 2 first?
No, you don’t need to play the first game before Ni no Kuni II. While there are some easter egg references to Wrath of the White Witch, the stories are independent and set thousands of years apart with different characters. You can jump right into Revenant Kingdom without feeling lost.
Does Ni no Kuni 2 get harder?
Yes, Ni no Kuni II has difficulty settings. A patch added Hard and Expert modes for players seeking a greater challenge, alongside the original Normal mode.
Is Ni no Kuni 2 beginner friendly?
Yes, Ni no Kuni II is beginner friendly. The Swordsman and Witch classes are recommended for new players due to their versatility and balanced abilities.
Is Ni no Kuni 2 set after 1?
Yes, Ni no Kuni II is set hundreds of years after the events of Ni no Kuni: Wrath of the White Witch.
Can you keep playing Ni no Kuni 2 after you beat it?
Yes, after beating the main story, you can continue playing with the same character save, allowing you to explore the world, complete side quests, and achieve 100% completion.
Is Ni no Kuni a masterpiece?
Many consider the Ni no Kuni series as a whole to be a masterpiece, with the original Wrath of the White Witch standing out as a particularly strong title.
Is Ni no Kuni II open world?
Yes, Ni no Kuni II features an open world comprised of four kingdoms, plus the player’s kingdom, Evermore. This open world allows you to explore and discover various locations and secrets.
What difficulty should I play Ni no Kuni 2 on?
Expert mode is recommended for players seeking a challenge. Normal is suitable for those primarily interested in the story and kingdom building.
How many citizens are in Ni no Kuni 2?
You can recruit 103 citizens to your kingdom, Evermore. Each citizen provides unique skills and abilities that enhance your kingdom.
Is there romance in Ni no Kuni 2?
While there is no overt romance, the game hints at a potential soulmate for Evan who also becomes Queen later in the story.
Did Studio Ghibli help with Ni no Kuni 2?
Studio Ghibli was not directly involved in the development of Ni no Kuni II, but the game maintains a visual style inspired by Ghibli’s distinctive art.
What is the best class in Ni no Kuni?
The best class varies based on your playstyle. The Swordsman is a solid, beginner-friendly class, while others like the Witch offer ranged attacks.