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[SkylineRKR]

So I started this game today. Its a RTTP, because I had this game, way, way, waaaay back. In fact it was the JP version in 2003. I really wanted it, couldn't buy it and somehow got it on my Xbox HDD back then (something Evo dashboard). I liked the first a ton and this sequel didn't disappoint either. But I think I only played about 6 or 7 stages, waiting for a localization which eventually came but I had moved on by then.

Now I have it on my XSS, and I want to beat it. Its fucking great! Its a classic game. Single player, no online bullshit. Choose your character and loadout and go. Destroy everything. Levels are small, they take 5-10 minutes each. They range from tower defense to destroy a few generators or to find and kill a boss. Destroying all objects in a stage rewards you I think. Yeah so the destruction, you can destruct a ton of shit and throw enemies into it as well. Its mayhem. The gameplay is rather simple, there is a basic combo, magic button, hard slash, dash and upward and downward strikes.

The problems. The issue is 4:3 and a narrow camera. This makes navigating more difficult than it should be. Saving can take a long time too but I see why. You can leave completed levels in their current state (with objects destroyed), or reset them. I think this is why saving is a bit slow. Also the ENG VA sucks ass, but you can put it on Japanese.

So you have this bunch of warriors (With Raikoh from 1 returning too), and the game encourages you to use everyone. In some stages you can only select 1 or 2, in others you can select all but some are most efficient. The game tells you this by showing Affinity points. For example the bridge defense mission is easiest with the fast scythe chick, because she can move from boat to boat very quickly. Some characters get an item if you do a stage with them, the lighting boss I did with the slow warrior guy, and he got another weapon for example. I got a costume from the spider boss, when tackled with the double sword guy.

This game's environmental destruction puts a lot of current gen games to shame and you know it. And there must be some fans of this IP around here. Its pre Demon's Souls FROM. They always made these quirky games, and I usually liked what they created even though it was flawed and low budget.

Otogi 2 has powerful music and a sinister atmosphere, its all extremely Japanese folklore like. This franchise is bad ass. Bring it back FROM! And can you imagine 4k 120hz remasters in widescreen? I think I want it.

 

[BennyBlanco]

These games were both amazing at the time. I think I still have the discs somewhere.

 

[Timberwolf25]

I didn't know these were BC. I know I have at least one of these games and maybe even both.
I don't remember beating either, but was very busy at the time and remember buying a lot of games I never got to finish.

Might need to dig through some boxes to find them.

 

[RedC]

From Software needs to reboot Ninja Blade.

 

[adamsapple]

 

[fatmarco]

The Japanese launch edition (non-platinum) of Otogi 2 has both Otogi 1 and 2 in it, and you can often get it extremely cheap from Japan.

Both games are region free on Series X and One consoles too, so it's a nice way to get a physical copy that's also not completely useless.

 

[DenimDevil]

I loved these back in the day, was really excited when they were finally made BC along with Gunvalkyrie (kept the physical copies all those years hoping they would become BC one day). But yeah the stretched out 4:3 is a real turnoff for me.

 

[Shtef]

I am huge from soft fan but i couldn't get into it, not becuase they are bad games but becuase of camera control, its reversed and cannot be changed.

 

[N0S]

Owned both I think but only played the first one. Remember it being weird. Guess its 30fps?

 

[Ceadeus]

I beat the 1st Otogi two years ago, I definitely loved it as it's a unic take on action game. It plays like no other games.

A floaty beat em up that has weird time limit and lots of destruction. I like how you need to manage your time as you find the best attack for each enemy type.

I still haven't got to play the second game which is supposed to be even better.

 

[SkylineRKR]

I think I am about halfway through, or somewhat further. The game is more fun when you grind completed levels a bit. Your level makes an insane difference and you'll obliterate enemies much quicker. The spider boss was a decent challenge at 5, but at 7 he's free. So I usually repeat this level which is only this short run section and boss you'll defeat in 10 seconds or less. Decent payout too. Its worth it to replay stages with certain characters anyway, you'll get different scenes or perhaps a costume or weapon.

The forest of havoc minigames range from annoying to fun. In one you need to mow the grass by smashing demon's into it lol. I found the best way is to use the axe guy or fan lady since they can pick up enemies. Its very easy, only 50% and its done.

Camera and its controls are absolutely the worst parts, a bit of a pullback and widescreen would do wonders. As would customizable controls. Lock on is kind of bad too, the game doesn't tell you but if you dash while locked on you go much further and also upwards. You can easily home in on enemies. Why I can't change targets with RS is beyond me, perhaps its in the settings. More things I forgot started to come back, you can infinitely stay airborne and go upwards with dash + heavy slash. This is how I always moved around in these games.

Modern games aren't all doom and gloom, usually they have much more leeway and things are explained better. But I prefer to play these oldies mostly.