Nioh 2 Game Review

A Masterpiece of Action RPGs

Game Introduction

Nioh 2, developed by Team Ninja and published by Koei Tecmo, is the highly anticipated sequel to the critically acclaimed Nioh (2017). The game was initially released on March 13, 2020, for PlayStation 4 and later for PC on February 5, 2021, Nioh 2 builds upon its predecessor’s foundation, delivering a challenging yet rewarding action RPG experience. Set in a dark, fantastical version of feudal Japan, the game combines brutal combat, deep customization, and a rich historical narrative. With its refined mechanics, expanded features, and stunning visuals, Nioh 2 has solidified its place as one of the standout titles in the genre.

Gameplay: A Deep and Rewarding Experience

Nioh 2’s gameplay is a perfect blend of precision, strategy, and customization. Players take on the role of a half-human, half-yokai (demon) protagonist, referred to as Hide, who wields both human weapons and supernatural abilities. The game’s combat system is its crown jewel, offering a staggering variety of weapons, including katanas, spears, axes, and dual swords, each with unique movesets and skills. The addition of yokai abilities, which allow players to harness the powers of defeated demons, adds a fresh layer of depth to the combat.

The game features three stances—high, mid, and low—each catering to different playstyles. High stance focuses on heavy, powerful attacks, mid stance offers balanced offense and defense, and low stance emphasizes speed and evasion. Mastering these stances and seamlessly switching between them is key to surviving the game’s relentless enemies and bosses.

Nioh 2 also introduces the “Burst Counter,” a mechanic that allows players to counter devastating enemy attacks by transforming into their yokai form. This feature adds a thrilling risk-reward dynamic to battles, as mistiming a Burst Counter can leave players vulnerable.

The game’s missions are structured into main and side quests, with each offering unique challenges and rewards. Main missions advance the story, while side quests provide additional lore, equipment, and experience points. The level design is intricate, with hidden paths, traps, and secrets that encourage exploration. Co-op multiplayer is also available, allowing players to team up with friends or strangers to tackle difficult missions.

Characters and Story Narrative

Nioh 2’s story serves as a prequel to the first game, set during the tumultuous Sengoku period in Japan. Players assume the role of Hide, a customizable protagonist who is half-yokai. The narrative explores Hide’s journey as they navigate a world torn apart by war and supernatural forces. Along the way, Hide encounters historical figures such as Toyotomi Hideyoshi and Tokichiro, as well as mythical yokai that blur the line between friend and foe.

The story delves into themes of identity, power, and the consequences of wielding supernatural abilities. While the narrative is engaging, it often takes a backseat to the gameplay, with much of the lore hidden in item descriptions and optional dialogue. However, the characters are well-written, and their interactions add emotional weight to the story. The game’s ending ties seamlessly into the events of the first Nioh, providing a satisfying conclusion for returning players.

Graphics and Sound Design: A Visual and Auditory Feast

Nioh 2’s graphics are a significant improvement over its predecessor. The game boasts detailed character models, lush environments, and stunning visual effects that bring its dark, fantastical world to life. The lighting and particle effects, particularly during combat, are breathtaking, with each strike and ability accompanied by vibrant flashes and sparks.

The sound design is equally impressive, with a hauntingly beautiful soundtrack that complements the game’s tone. The clash of swords, the growls of yokai, and the ambient sounds of the environment create an immersive experience. Voice acting, available in both English and Japanese, is top-notch, with each character’s performance adding depth to the story.

Replayability and Content

Nioh 2 offers an abundance of content, ensuring players will spend dozens of hours exploring its world. The game features multiple difficulty levels, including New Game Plus, which introduces tougher enemies and better loot. The loot system is robust, with countless weapons, armor sets, and accessories to collect and upgrade.

The game also includes the “Underworld” and “Depths of the Underworld,” endgame content that challenges even the most seasoned players. These modes feature randomized dungeons and increasingly difficult enemies, providing endless replayability. Additionally, the game’s DLC expansions—The Tengu’s Disciple, Darkness in the Capital, and The First Samurai—add new storylines, weapons, and enemies, further extending the game’s lifespan.

Verdict

Nioh 2 is a triumph in the action RPG genre, offering a perfect blend of challenging combat, deep customization, and rich storytelling. Its refined mechanics, stunning visuals, and immersive sound design make it a must-play for fans of the genre. However, the game’s difficulty may be intimidating for newcomers, and the story, while engaging, can feel secondary to the gameplay.

Buy Nioh 2: Pricing and Availability

Nioh 2, is a challenging action-adventure game that demands mastery of its intricate combat mechanics. As a half-human, half-yokai protagonist, you’ll navigate treacherous landscapes and battle formidable foes, leveraging a deep and complex system that rewards strategic thinking and skillful execution. With its visually stunning environments, haunting atmosphere, and rich narrative, Nioh 2 offers a captivating gaming experience. 

Buy Nioh 2 to uncover the secrets of a mystical realm and confront the darkness within.

PC Gamers can enjoy the game purchasing through Steam in the following Editions:

• Buy Nioh 2 Standard Edition for $41.69

PlayStation 4 & PlayStation 5 players can get the game through the PlayStation Store with the following Editions with bundles and passes:

• Buy Nioh 2 Standard Edition for $49.99

All mentioned rates are exclusive from currently running discount offers/promotions.

Nioh 2 is available to be downloaded on Microsoft Windows through Steam, PlayStation 4, and PlayStation 5 players can purchase it through PlayStation Store.

Genre and Platforms

Nioh 2 is an action RPG that combines fast-paced combat with deep customization and exploration. It was released on March 13, 2020, for PlayStation 4 and later for PC on February 5, 2021. The game is also available on PlayStation 5 as part of the Nioh 2 Remastered – The Complete Edition, which includes enhanced graphics and performance.

Nioh 2 System Requirements