Ni no Kuni II: Revenant Kingdom: The Review

Ni no Kuni II: Revenant Kingdom: The Review

Score: 8 out of 10

Overview: "Ni no Kuni II: Revenant Kingdom offers a charming and visually stunning RPG experience, blending traditional JRPG elements with a unique kingdom-building mechanic. The game tells a heartfelt story of loss, hope, and unity, wrapped in a vibrant, anime-inspired world. While the gameplay is polished and accessible, the simplified systems and occasionally uneven pacing prevent it from fully reaching its potential. Nevertheless, it’s a delightful adventure that’s easy to get lost in and a worthy follow-up to the beloved original."

The Positives

• The Studio Ghibli-inspired art style is as enchanting as ever, with gorgeous environments, lively animations, and a whimsical aesthetic that feels like stepping into a fairy tale. The vibrant colors and attention to detail make every location a joy to explore;
• The narrative of Evan’s quest to build a kingdom based on peace and unity is emotionally engaging, with themes of hope and perseverance. While not as dark or complex as the first game, it retains a sense of wonder and optimism that’s hard to resist;
• The shift to real-time combat is a refreshing change, offering fast-paced battles with intuitive controls. The variety of weapons, skills, and adorable Higgledies adds depth without overwhelming players;
• Managing and expanding Evan’s kingdom introduces a unique layer of gameplay. Recruiting citizens, constructing buildings, and researching upgrades create a satisfying sense of progression that ties into the overall narrative;
• The game’s world is filled with quirky NPCs, engaging side quests, and delightful companions. Each party member has distinct abilities and personalities, contributing to the game’s rich tapestry of storytelling;
• Composed by Joe Hisaishi, the orchestral score is a standout feature, beautifully enhancing the game’s emotional and adventurous moments.

The Negatives

• While the combat and kingdom-building are enjoyable, they can feel overly streamlined. Hardcore RPG fans may find the lack of challenge or strategic depth in these systems underwhelming;
• Many side quests boil down to fetch or combat tasks, lacking variety or meaningful rewards. This repetition can detract from the game’s charm over time;
• While the overarching story is compelling, some antagonists feel underdeveloped or lack the narrative weight to be truly memorable;
• Certain sections of the game feel rushed, while others drag unnecessarily. This uneven flow can disrupt the sense of progression and immersion;
• While the world map is visually stunning, exploration feels somewhat limited, with a lack of rewarding secrets or significant discoveries.

The Experience

Ni no Kuni II: Revenant Kingdom is a captivating and heartfelt RPG that delivers a polished, accessible experience. Its charming visuals, touching story, and innovative kingdom-building mechanic make it stand out, even if some aspects feel simplified or repetitive. For those looking for a magical world to get lost in, this game offers plenty of joy and adventure.
While it doesn’t quite reach the emotional depth or complexity of its predecessor, Ni no Kuni II is still a delightful journey that proves you don’t need gritty realism to create a memorable RPG. It’s a bright, uplifting experience that reminds us of the power of hope, unity, and a little touch of magic.