The new chapter of Koei Tecmo will enter the videogame world on 13 March 2020, Nioh 2: let's find out if the title has exceeded our expectations or not with this review!
We remind you that the title, unlike what you might think, is the prequel to the original title and takes place in 1500.
Nioh 2 review: a new warrior on the way
While the states are in conflict with each other, some evil spirits are called yokai they are taking over the human world, one step at a time. Our adventure will begin in the midst of chaos.
Dopo un interesting introductory video and after fixing the initial settings, we will have the option of create our avatar. The vastness of details that we will have is impressive, we will be able to create the perfect character, choosing every little detail.
From the tattoo on the back, to the freckles or marks on the face. We will be able to choose the length and color of the hair, the eyes, their shape and much more. Already from this first step of creation it will be possible to notice how Team Ninja has particularly concentrated on offering to the public graphics that touch reality.
After giving life to our character, we will then take on the role of a hunter or a solitary hunter, whose blood can be considered mixed as partly human and partly yokai.
In the course of a past battle, our character lost control of his actions but was helped by Tokichiro, a merchant who owns the Stones of the Spirit. These stones will allow him to calm the demonic part of the main character.
Our character and Tokichiro, therefore, will start looking for mysterious artifacts. The two, however, following interesting and strange events, will find themselves at the service of Oda Nobunaga.
A challenging souls-like
At the beginning of our adventure we will find ourselves inside a cave where we will have the possibility to choose ours two main weapons and spirit connected to our Yokai. Subsequently, if we wish it or not, we can decide to follow a tutorial that shows us how to fight, activate our Yokai form and much more.
I have not personally played the first chapter, so I can say that I have found this tutorial very helpful and divinely realized. It will also be possible to fish it out in the main menu, so do not be scared if by chance you do not remember which button to click to stop you (at most, click them all, like Tekken and you will see).
An important element that I would like to point out is that Nioh 2, like its predecessor, is a souls-like. Personally I was not aware of it and this created some problems for me at the beginning, but with strength and commitment I was able to continue my adventure which turned out to be really interestinge.
The combat system it is not easy, it is necessary to learn every little move and to know when to use a certain shot over another and when, in particular, to parry or move. I admit it was difficult at first, particularly as I've never been a fan of this genre.
However, we know that sometimes it is a question of principle, of personal pride and my goal was to be able to enter this new perspective of combat. So trust me if I tell you that, with a little commitment, you will be able to do everything.
Nioh 2 review: surreal scenarios and monstrous creatures
The graphics, as mentioned previously, have me incredibly surprised. In addition to having characters who seem to come out of the world we live in, the settings are magical. Together with the soundtrack, purely characterized by light and relaxing sounds, they create a unique and particular atmosphere.
Sometimes it seems to be able to enter the game and touch that somewhat relaxing but also atmosphere disturbing. Because this is the peculiarity of the game, suggestive settings but at the same time gloomy, characterized by landscapes with cherry trees in bloom and small monstrous creatures that bleed.
An element to underline are also the monsters, the other Yokai against whom we will have to fight in the course of our adventure. Each creature is characterized in precise way e unique, even broadcasting a sense of restlessness ed distress that pervade us until we kill them.
When we find ourselves fighting against stronger Yokai, once killed, we will get the “Souls Cores” which will allow us to use the abilities of the killed yokai and transform ourselves into it, thanks to which we will be able to perform special moves.
Enemies in every corner and skills to be developed
Be careful, though: like any self-respecting game, we will have to pay attention not only to monsters but also to human beings who, in some respects, will be even more ruthless than the Yokai. Also, if we have enough materials, we can during the battles summon the souls of warriors from the graves along the way.
They can be of help during the most hostile and complicated battles.
At the beginning we will have the opportunity to bring with us only two weapons which, used for a long time, will allow us to become more familiar with them and therefore to unlock new skills of attack and defense. During the game, however, we will be able to acquire new ones.
Our character, on the other hand, will be able to develop different skills, divided into four groups main: Samurai, Semi-Yokai, Ninja e Magia Onmyo. This will give life to different combos that will allow us to improve our combat system and also to use particular objects.
Also, an element that I found really pleasant, is the presence of small temples during the game. They will allow us to stop for a moment, isolate ourselves from that violent climate and relax to pray for a few minutes. I found it extremely delicate and a great way to approach, in a certain sense, a culture different from ours.
Nioh 2 - PlayStation 4
- An unpublished story with dark tones set in a feudal Japan
- Game and combat system revamped with the introduction of the Yokai Shift for a variety of new abilities and ...
- New gameplay system and character customization
Nioh (PS4) - [Edition: UK]
- Product created to meet all needs
- Reliable range
- Easy to use
Nioh 2 review: let's sum it up
Nioh 2 looks like a excellent product, characterized by one interesting story and surreal settings, able to literally transport the player within the title. The combat system, especially for those new to souls-like, will turn out to be one real challenge at the beginning, but I trust your fighting skills, friends.
Each element is perfectly positioned, it is like a huge puzzle in which every single piece has been put in its place. And trust me, the figure that comes out at the end will be spectacular. Tiring but it will be absolutely worth it. Team Ninja has come up with a great product that brings honor to its predecessor.
Nioh 2 review
Pro 
- Realistic graphics
- Great scenery and soundtrack
- Attention to detail
- Interesting story
Cons 
- Hostile combat system
