ReviewsReview: Dragon's Dogma 2

Review: Dragon’s Dogma 2

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Dragon’s Dogma 2 is a fun but often silly dive into a medieval existence. The massive world, colourful characters, and flawed bugs make you laugh and smile in equal measure. However, its story doesn’t hold the same charms as its more serious counterparts. Consequently, this may annoy the toughest and most battle-hardened individuals. However, if, like me, you love an interesting and stunning world that twists and turns, then this will be right up your street.

This role-playing adventure title was developed and published by Capcom. Furthermore, it has a sense of online action as you “borrow” pawns from other players. Yet, this wasn’t an element that I fixated upon. As I begged, stole, and borrowed helpers whenever I wanted. It was this sense of freedom and fluidity that helped an otherwise punctuated game flow nicely. Moreover, your companions’ jolly and sassy nature will brighten up the darkest days.

Dragon’s Dogma 2 tells a tale of redemption. 

Having your heart eaten by a pissed-off dragon is everyone’s nightmare… Well, maybe not everyone’s, but it certainly was a blot on the protagonist’s day. However, this slight setback is the catalyst for an unlikely set of events. As the dragon is laughing and joking about its victory, you somehow rise from the dead. With no heart to pump your blood, you are now known as the “Arisen”. You are a chosen entity that must complete its preordained path and rule the kingdom.

This fantasy story is as outlandish as it is vast. On top of this, is a host of characters, side quests, and exploration elements that rivals its peers. Furthermore, the day and night cycle is bloody deadly and being caught in the darkness is asking for trouble. As such, preparation is essential if you wish to fulfil the prophecy. 

The story is just noise. 

Dragon’s Dogma 2 does a great job of setting the scene. The “ye olde” English is as amusing as it is confusing. Subsequently, I ended up shutting off to the ramblings of each merchant. Alongside this, the cinematic rolls on for days as every layer is well explained and narrated. Yet, when time is short, and you just wish to slay ogres, trolls, ghosts, and goblins, it gets in your way. 

It was unfortunate that the story was just background noise that got discarded. If you have time and the desire, you’ll probably adore every bizarre twist. But if you are like me, you’ll get the basic idea and quickly move along. 

My lack of story focus didn’t detract from the overall experience. Instead, it allowed me to venture into the world with an open mind and a sense of despair. This dangerous edge was fantastic, and I adored the blend of combat, suspense, and exploration. 

Different characters.

Where Dragon’s Dogma 2 excels is its character creation. Both the hero and their pawn can be created from scratch. Every layer of their appearance, race, and skill set can be adjusted. Moreover, you may select the class that supports your style and complements your weaknesses. It is this level of detail that draws you into a personalised experience.

If you struggle with your character limitations, you may hire pawns to help balance up each encounter. This was a little random, but I adored the flexibility of this gameplay mechanic. Additionally, it allowed you to test different combat styles without breaking away from your normal preferences. 

Vocations. 

We’ve all played those rigid RPGs where your class is your class. Accordingly, if you wish to break from this path, you’ll have to reset your gameplay and lose your progress. Dragon’s Dogma 2 is different! As you explore the world, you may wish to mix things up. Well, you can, as your vocation alters your combat and playstyle in one impressive move.

This adjustable concept is phenomenal as it allows you to blend your pawns’ abilities with your hero’s strengths. Consequently, you can be ready for any situation without breaking a sweat.

Dragon’s Dogma 2 looks great despite 30 FPS.

A low frame rate is a big no for many gamers. I don’t mind this issue as it rarely bothers me. However, at times, Dragon’s Dogma 2 stutters and stalls badly. This wasn’t what I expected from a next-gen game. Additionally, when you consider how smooth the combat is and how great the world looks, it is disappointing.

If you can overlook the 30 FPS, you’ll adore the incredible world. The vast open spaces are immense. Moreover, the brutal nature of nighttime and its deadly consequences will keep you on your toes. As such, this is as dramatic as it is suspenseful.

If you love being followed around by a permanent narrator, then you’ll cherish every moment. Honestly, the constant blah, blah, blah of your pawn will drive you to distraction. The little turds will not stop chatting and moaning about their slave-like existence. Yet, this annoyance to one side, Dragon’s Dogma 2 sounds amazing. The dramatic soundtrack is fantastic, and the sound effects work perfectly with every weapon, spell, and monster. 

Smooth controls. 

With many vocations to pick from and a seamlessly never-ending stream of quests, I worried about the controls. I expected this to be messy and challenging to play. However, the tutorial is thorough, well-paced, and interesting to tackle. Furthermore, though the UI can be overbearing, once you understand the fundamentals, you’ll be slaying monsters like a pro. 

Dragon’s Dogma 2 takes time to grow on you. The action evolves nicely, and you shouldn’t judge it too early. Once you understand its finer points, you’ll love its medieval charms. Moreover, the character creation is one of the best I’ve experienced. Subsequently, this has both replay value and longevity.

Dragon’s Dogma 2 is a fun and different fantasy experience. 

Though hardcore RPG lovers may not be so impressed, I enjoyed the fun and unusual elements of this title. Furthermore, the world is massive, the quests are interesting, and the vocation mechanic was an excellent choice. Accordingly, I love this and I recommend buying it here! Can you fulfil your potential? Grab your pawn, explore the world, and get your revenge.

SUMMARY

Dagon's Dogma 2 is a fun and unique role-playing title. Furthermore, its world is massive and I loved the ability to change your combat and playstyle. However, the endless ramblings of your pawns will drive you mad. Additionally, the poor frame rate needs to be addressed.


+ An incredible world to explore.
+ Atmospheric audio.
+ Smooth controls.
+ Loads of replay value.
+ A fun RPG.
+ Amazing character customisation.

- The cinematic can outstay its welcome.
- Poor frame rate.

(Rating: PEGI 18 In-Game Purchases, Violence Release date: 22/03/2024 Price: £61.99+)


(Reviewed on the Xbox Series X. Also available on Xbox Series S, PC (Steam), GeForce Now and PlayStation 5)


(Full disclosure! This review is based on a copy of the game being provided by the publisher/developer.)


Daniel Waite
Daniel Waite
My gaming career started on an Amiga and spans many consoles! Currently, I game using an MSI laptop and Xbox Series X. A fan of every genre, I love to give anything a go. Former editor and reviewer for http://www.bonusstage.co.uk, I'm loving my new home here at Movies Games and Tech. I can be contacted for gaming reviews on the following email: Daniel@moviesgamesandtech.com

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