Videogame, Gamecube

Reviewed by Emrys Let's face it, there's no better way to begin an introduction to the Soul Calibur series then by quoting the memorable first lines of the opening cinematic. Maestro, cue the music.

"Transcending history and the world, a tale of souls and swords eternally retold."

The basic premise of Soul Calibur 2 is essentially as uncomplicated as it gets for a fighting game plot. The Soul Edge, an ancient sword of pure evil, which was shattered into pieces by the Soul Calibur, the antithesis to Soul Edge, in the first game has resurfaced four years later. Various people from all throughout time and from all over the world are all seeking its power for their own reasons. Some wish to destroy it, others wish to take it for their own. But let's face it, no one plays fighting games for their story. Fortunately, there are a great many other reasons to play the game.

Before I proceed however, if you've read any other reviews of Soul Calibur 2, then you know already that its major drawback is that it's just as good as the original Soul Calibur for the Dreamcast, but not significantly better. What this means is that SC2 is a deep, engaging, fascinating piece of work, but no longer beyond its time. With that out of the way, I'd like to point out that I only played the original Soul Calibur once or twice and thus, all this is new to me.

The most immediately impressive thing about Soul Calibur is its visual style. Character costumes are universally impressive. With styles ranging from medieval European armor, to Japanese kimonos and otherworldly attire, and no less then three costumes per character, there is an enormous variety present. To match the wide variety of costumes, each character has a very distinctive style of fighting. From Raphael, the Spanish fencer, to Voldo a human gone mad, to an Todd McFarlane inspired beast monster, and more then 20 characters to choose from, any player will be bound to find someone who fits their personal style.

What really matters though is whether or not the game is fun. While the Gamecube controller does not readily lend its self to fighting games, I have not had many problems with it in the short time that I have been playing. In any case, if you have a problem with it, you can find respite by purchasing either a Gamecube to PS2 adapter, or with a different version of the game. In any case, you will find that each version has the same mechanics. Deep involved game play, strategic moves, and a good helping of flash, keeps the game exciting for hours and hours. And believe me, I've played for hours and hours.

In conclusion, it is difficult to find fault with this game. If anything, the biggest problem is finding enough time to satisfy your cravings.