Alundra 2: A New Legend Begins

Alundra 2: A New Legend Begins implements the same puzzle-platformer approach to a 3D action-RPG, featuring (as the title implies) a new saga that set the tragic writing aside for a much stronger sense of levity. Eccentric characters & humor are enhanced by elaborate, voiced cutscenes and a large variety of minigames; their combined effect exudes an atmosphere of harmless fun. But in terms of gameplay, this new dimension brings mixed news: On one hand, it actually improved the platforming, providing better air control with a less prohibitive isometric view. On the other hand, the deceptive hitboxes, lack of tools and a slow knockdown animation results in some annoying combat, that only gets worse as the game proceeds from one grating boss fight to the next. The tricky and creative puzzles are the real bright spots of a sequel that's not without its charm but tends to frustrate more than captivate.