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MONSTER

Romancing SaGa 2: Revenge of the Seven

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Romancing SaGa 2: Revenge of the Seven
Item: Romancing SaGa 2: Revenge of the Seven
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2024

GenresRPG, Anime and JRPG, Military and Warfare, Single Player

AvailableOct 24, 2024

PlatformXbox Series X, PC, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5

DeveloperXeen

Overview

Romancing SaGa 2: Revenge of the Seven is a full remake of the groundbreaking non-linear RPG Romancing SaGa 2, which originally launched in Japan in 1993. Embark on an adventure featuring both new and classic SaGa franchise features, complete with Japanese and English voiceovers, original and rearranged compositions, and much more! This is an ideal entry point for new players and provides an amped-up experience for longtime fans.

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Romancing SaGa 2: Revenge of the Seven impresses with its ambitious multigenerational narrative and innovative gameplay focused on inheritance. Critics praise its unique premise and dynamic storytelling, allowing for varied character choices and perspectives. However, significant flaws mar the experience, including shallow character development and a narrative that loses depth as it unfolds, leading to a generic and emotionally detached experience. While the game shines with creative ideas, it ultimately struggles to deliver the emotional engagement expected from an RPG, resulting in a mixed reception.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

59%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

41%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The story of Romancing SaGa 2: Revenge of the Seven has garnered a generally positive reception from critics, who appreciate its ambitious multigenerational narrative and unique gameplay mechanics centered around inheritance. Many reviewers, such as Checkpoint Gaming and Digital Chumps, highlight the engaging premise of players controlling a lineage of rulers confronting the corrupted Seven Heroes, which adds a layer of depth and complexity to the storytelling. Critics like Eurogamer Portugal and PlayStation Universe commend the dynamic nature of the narrative, allowing for varied character perspectives and choices that impact the story, making each playthrough feel unique. The thematic focus on legacy and adaptability is also praised, as seen in the reviews from Movies Games and Tech and RPG Site, which underscore the compelling nature of the generational gameplay. However, several critics point out significant shortcomings in the narrative depth and character development. CGMagazine notes that while the initial setup is intriguing, the story loses its depth as it progresses, leading to a less engaging protagonist. Similar sentiments are echoed by GamersRD and IGN France, who describe the narrative as feeling generic and lacking emotional resonance, making it difficult for players to form connections with the characters. Critics like God is a Geek and Hey Poor Player also mention that the inheritance system, while innovative, can detract from character depth and overall engagement, resulting in a story that feels light and occasionally disjointed. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that Romancing SaGa 2: Revenge of the Seven offers a unique and ambitious narrative framework that is both engaging and innovative, particularly in its exploration of generational themes and character succession. However, this ambition is often undermined by a lack of depth in character development and narrative consistency, leading to a mixed reception. While some reviewers, such as Impulsegamer and GamingTrend, appreciate the engaging nature of the story, they also acknowledge the challenges posed by the non-linear structure and character detachment. Thus, the game stands out for its creative premise but struggles to fully deliver on the emotional and narrative engagement that many players seek in an RPG experience.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Romancing SaGa 2: Revenge of the Seven impresses with its innovative character development and strategic turn-based combat, earning high praise for its depth and replayability. Critics commend the engaging mechanics and kingdom-building aspects, though some note issues with combat balance and potential confusion from generational transitions. Despite minor drawbacks, the game delivers a compelling RPG experience that appeals to fans of the genre, successfully embodying the essence of the beloved SaGa series.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

85%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

12%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Romancing SaGa 2: Revenge of the Seven has garnered significant praise from critics, highlighting its innovative mechanics and strategic depth. Many reviewers, such as CGMagazine and Digital Chumps, applauded the game's unique character development system, which emphasizes inheritance and non-linear progression. This system allows players to build their characters in a way that encourages experimentation and strategic team composition, appealing to fans of mechanically dense RPGs. The turn-based combat system, as noted by Eurogamer Portugal and PlayStation Universe, is engaging and rewards players for exploiting enemy weaknesses, while the introduction of mechanics like United Attacks and the Glimmer system adds layers of complexity and replayability. Critics also appreciated the kingdom-building aspect and the freedom in decision-making, which enhances the overall experience, making it compelling for players who enjoy rich narratives and strategic gameplay. Despite the overwhelmingly positive feedback, some critics pointed out notable drawbacks that may affect the overall enjoyment of the game. For instance, GamersRD expressed concerns about the balance of the combat system, suggesting it could lead to frustration among players. Additionally, IGN France highlighted potential confusion stemming from the generational transitions, which may disrupt the flow of gameplay. Critics like Impulsegamer and Nintendo Life also mentioned the lack of a traditional leveling system and the potential for tedious party management, particularly after a new Emperor is crowned. These issues could detract from the otherwise engaging gameplay experience, especially for players who prefer more straightforward mechanics. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Romancing SaGa 2: Revenge of the Seven delivers a robust and enjoyable gameplay experience, with its unique mechanics and strategic depth standing out as key strengths. While there are some criticisms regarding balance and clarity, the majority of reviewers, including those from Checkpoint Gaming and RPG Site, found the game to be a rewarding experience that encourages exploration and strategic thinking. The combination of innovative character progression, engaging combat, and a rich narrative structure has led to a generally favorable reception, suggesting that the game successfully captures the essence of what makes the SaGa series beloved among RPG enthusiasts.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Romancing SaGa 2: Revenge of the Seven impresses with its vibrant 3D visuals, respecting the charm of the original 2D design. Critics praise the art direction and character animations, but many point out significant issues like lack of detail, outdated models, and performance problems, particularly on the Switch. The reception is split: some celebrate the nostalgic upgrade, while others find the graphics lacking depth and polish, highlighting a need for improvement in future updates.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

45%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

48%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The graphics and visual design of Romancing SaGa 2: Revenge of the Seven have garnered a variety of positive remarks from several critics, particularly regarding the game's transition from its original 2D aesthetic to a modern 3D presentation. CGMagazine highlights how the remastered graphics breathe life into the 2D world while respecting the original style, which is echoed by PlayStation Universe, noting that the 3D overhaul preserves the charm of the original. Critics like Impulsegamer and Worth Playing commend the vibrant art direction and lush environments, with the latter praising the nostalgic yet refreshing experience created by the colorful 3D models. Additionally, reviews from RPGamer and Meristation emphasize the successful transition of visuals, with detailed character designs and fluid animations enhancing the overall visual experience. On the flip side, several critics have pointed out significant drawbacks in the game's visual execution. Eurogamer Portugal and GamersRD describe the graphics as lacking detail, with the former noting that the visual quality struggles to meet the standards of AAA titles, particularly on powerful platforms like the PS5. Critics such as SpazioGames and Nintendo Life criticize the outdated and bland character models, with the latter suggesting that an HD2D approach would have been more charming. Furthermore, issues like texture pop-in and frame rate drops, particularly on the Nintendo Switch, were highlighted by critics such as NintendoWorldReport and But Why Tho?, indicating a lack of polish in the visual presentation. Overall, the consensus among critics appears to be mixed, with a divide between those who appreciate the nostalgic and vibrant 3D visuals and those who find them lacking in depth and detail. While many reviewers like PlaySense and Digital Chumps acknowledge the visual improvements and the successful modernization of the game, others like Eurogamer Germany and GamingTrend express disappointment in the overall execution, labeling it as uninspired or basic. This dichotomy suggests that while Romancing SaGa 2: Revenge of the Seven has made strides in updating its graphics, it has not fully satisfied all critics, leaving room for improvement in future iterations or updates.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

"Romancing SaGa 2: Revenge of the Seven" shines with a remastered soundtrack that critics love for its orchestration and immersive qualities, complemented by a dual soundtrack feature and commendable voice acting in both English and Japanese. However, some note issues with audio quality and repetitiveness, while the English voice acting lacks the expected impact. Overall, the game delivers a captivating auditory experience that enhances gameplay, despite minor drawbacks.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

62%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

38%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The sound design and music of "Romancing SaGa 2: Revenge of the Seven" have garnered a largely positive reception from critics across various platforms. Many reviewers, such as CGMagazine and Worth Playing, praised the remastered soundtrack, highlighting its immersive qualities and ability to enhance the gameplay experience. Critics like PlayStation Universe and Push Square noted the faithful recreation of the original score with full orchestration, which adds depth to the overall atmosphere. The dual soundtrack feature, allowing players to toggle between the original and new arrangements, was particularly well-received, with SpazioGames and Eurogamer Germany emphasizing its contribution to an enriched auditory experience. The inclusion of voice acting in both English and Japanese also received commendations, with GameOver.gr and COGconnected noting that it added a layer of engagement to the game. Despite the overall praise, some critics pointed out certain drawbacks in the sound design and music. For instance, GamersRD mentioned that while the soundtrack features pleasant melodies, some themes sound quieter compared to the original version. Similarly, Meristation and GamingTrend expressed concerns about the repetitiveness of the soundtrack over time, suggesting that while the music is beautiful, it could detract from the overall experience. Critics like Siliconera also noted that the English voice acting, while decent, did not significantly enhance the gameplay, implying that it lacked the impact expected from a fully voiced experience. In summary, the consensus among critics is that "Romancing SaGa 2: Revenge of the Seven" excels in its sound design and music, with many praising the remastered orchestration and the option to switch between soundtracks. Critics such as IGN France and RPG Fan highlighted the effective integration of voice acting, although some expressed that it fell short of being remarkable. Overall, while there are minor criticisms regarding audio quality and repetitiveness, the positive feedback overwhelmingly emphasizes the game's ability to create an immersive auditory experience that complements its gameplay.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

"Romancing SaGa 2: Revenge of the Seven" features mixed reviews for its voice acting. Critics praise the dual-language inclusion and immersive character interactions, with some highlighting the storytelling benefits. However, concerns emerge over the protagonist's voicelessness, basic delivery, and awkward translations, pointing to a lack of depth that undermines engagement. While the voice work enhances the experience, it ultimately falls short of excellence, revealing significant room for improvement.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

25%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

75%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in "Romancing SaGa 2: Revenge of the Seven" has garnered a mix of positive feedback from various critics, highlighting its role in enhancing the game's immersive experience. Several reviewers, such as Digitally Downloaded and GameOver.gr, praised the inclusion of voice acting in both English and Japanese, noting that it significantly enriches character interactions and the overall narrative immersion. RPG Fan also commended the full voice acting during story scenes and the unique battle quips for each character class, suggesting that the voice work contributes positively to the storytelling. NintendoWorldReport and RPGamer further emphasized the quality of the voice acting, with the former stating it "truly brings the world to life" and the latter noting its well-executed nature that enhances character immersion. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the voice acting that suggest it falls short in certain areas. CGMagazine pointed out that the protagonist becomes a voiceless avatar after a certain point, which diminishes personal connection and engagement with the story. IGN France described the voice acting as "rather basic," indicating a lack of depth that could have elevated the experience. Additionally, while some critics acknowledged the presence of voice acting, others like Siliconera felt it added little to the overall experience, and GamingTrend noted that awkward translations hampered the quality of the performances. This inconsistency in the perceived quality of the voice acting indicates that while it serves its purpose, it does not always reach a level of excellence. Overall, the consensus among critics reveals a mixed sentiment regarding the voice acting in "Romancing SaGa 2: Revenge of the Seven." While many reviewers appreciate the addition of voice work and recognize its potential to enhance immersion, there are significant concerns about its execution and depth. Critics like COGconnected and RPG Fan highlight the solid performances, yet others like IGN France and CGMagazine express disappointment in the lack of engagement due to the silent protagonist and basic delivery. This dichotomy suggests that while the voice acting is a commendable aspect of the game, it ultimately leaves room for improvement in terms of depth and character connection.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

"Romancing SaGa 2: Revenge of the Seven" shines on PS5 with a stable 60 FPS and modern features, earning praise from critics. In contrast, the Nintendo Switch version suffers from frame rate issues, long loading times, and texture problems that mar the experience. This stark disparity means platform choice significantly impacts gameplay enjoyment.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

17%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

67%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

17%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of "Romancing SaGa 2: Revenge of the Seven" across different platforms has garnered a mix of positive feedback, particularly for the PlayStation 5. Critics like Impulsegamer and IGN France praised the PS5 version for maintaining a consistent 60 FPS, offering a smooth gameplay experience. CGMagazine and Digital Chumps also noted the overall stability of the game, despite some minor hiccups. The incorporation of modern features such as improved graphics and save states was highlighted by Movies Games and Tech, which adds to the accessibility and polish of the game on this platform. On the other hand, the Nintendo Switch version has faced significant criticism regarding its technical performance. Reviewers like But Why Tho? and Cubed3 pointed out frame rate issues and texture loading problems, which detracted from the overall experience. Meristation and GamingTrend echoed these concerns, citing long loading screens and constant pop-in issues that disrupt gameplay. Even though some critics, such as Multiplayer.it and NintendoWorldReport, acknowledged that the overall quality of the game still shines through, they could not overlook the performance drawbacks that affected immersion and usability. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates a clear disparity in technical performance across the platforms. The PS5 version is generally well-received, with most reviewers praising its stable performance and smooth experience, while the Nintendo Switch version struggles with various technical issues that hinder gameplay. While RPGamer found the Switch version to perform well technically with no major issues, the majority of critics highlighted significant drawbacks that could impact player enjoyment. This divergence in performance suggests that players may want to consider their platform choice carefully, as it can greatly influence their overall gaming experience.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Romancing SaGa 2: Revenge of the Seven shines with positive reviews for its non-linear gameplay and diverse character progression, encouraging strategic experimentation. Critics praise its inheritance system and multitude of classes for enhancing replay value. However, concerns linger about a weak narrative, lack of New Game Plus, and save limitations that could dampen long-term engagement. While dedicated players will find rich replayability, some may feel disenchanted by its formulaic elements. Overall, it’s a mixed bag of potential delight and caution.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

66%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

31%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The overall sentiment towards the replay value of Romancing SaGa 2: Revenge of the Seven is predominantly positive among critics, highlighting the game's non-linear gameplay and diverse character progression systems. Many reviewers, such as CGMagazine and Digital Chumps, emphasize the benefits of the game's inheritance system and multiple character classes, which allow players to explore different strategies and outcomes in each playthrough. Critics like PlaySense and Worth Playing point out the abundance of classes and character abilities, which contribute to a rich and varied gameplay experience. The dynamic nature of the game, as noted by Eurogamer Portugal and SpazioGames, ensures that each playthrough can feel unique, encouraging players to experiment with different paths and decisions. However, there are notable criticisms that temper the enthusiasm for the game's replay value. Some reviewers, such as GamersRD, express concerns about the lack of a solid narrative and a convincing progression system, which may lead to a monotonous experience over time. Additionally, GameOver.gr mentions the absence of a New Game Plus mode, which could have enhanced replayability further. Impulsegamer raises a valid point regarding save limitations, suggesting that the inability to reload saves could deter some players from fully engaging with the game's replay potential. Eurogamer Germany also notes that while the game has replayable elements, its formulaic nature might hinder long-term engagement. In summary, while the majority of reviewers agree that Romancing SaGa 2: Revenge of the Seven offers significant replay value through its unique mechanics and character systems, there are valid concerns regarding narrative depth and gameplay limitations. Critics like IGN France and RPGamer appreciate the game's non-linear quests and character succession mechanics, suggesting that the replay value is substantial for those who enjoy strategic RPGs. Overall, the consensus points to a rich experience for dedicated players, albeit with some caveats that may affect the enjoyment of others.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

81%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

17%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The overall sentiment surrounding "Romancing SaGa 2: Revenge of the Seven" is largely positive, with many critics praising the game for its ambitious remake efforts and engaging gameplay. Reviewers like CGMagazine and Digital Chumps commend the game for retaining the charm of the original while introducing modern gameplay elements, making it a worthwhile experience for both newcomers and veterans of the series. The game's multigenerational narrative and unique mechanics, highlighted by critics such as PlayStation Universe and RPG Fan, are celebrated for providing depth and high replay value. Additionally, many reviews, including those from Impulsegamer and GameSpot, note the polished visuals and engaging combat systems, which enhance the overall experience and appeal to fans of the JRPG genre. However, the game is not without its drawbacks, as several critics point out technical issues and narrative limitations. Eurogamer Portugal and SpazioGames mention visual shortcomings and outdated technical aspects that detract from the overall experience. Critics like Nintendo Life and GamersRD express concerns about the lack of character depth and a coherent storyline, suggesting that the remake may feel overwhelming or underwhelming depending on the player's familiarity with the series. Furthermore, IGN France and Cubed3 note that while the game simplifies some aspects for a broader audience, it may disappoint hardcore fans seeking a more authentic experience. The overall consensus among critics is that "Romancing SaGa 2: Revenge of the Seven" is a commendable remake that successfully modernizes a classic while retaining its core elements. Most reviewers, including Push Square and Worth Playing, recommend it as a must-play for JRPG enthusiasts and a solid entry point for newcomers. Despite its imperfections, such as technical flaws and narrative weaknesses, the game is celebrated for its strategic gameplay and engaging mechanics, making it a noteworthy addition to the genre. Ultimately, the critics agree that the game offers a unique experience that is worth exploring, particularly for fans of the SaGa franchise.

TL;DR

"Romancing SaGa 2: Revenge of the Seven" is a praised remake that balances nostalgia and modern gameplay, appealing to both series veterans and newcomers. Critics highlight its engaging mechanics, multigenerational narrative, and polished visuals, but note technical flaws and narrative depth issues. Despite its imperfections, it's recommended as a must-play for JRPG fans, offering a unique experience worth exploring.

MONSTER

Reviews

86 reviews found

RPG Fan

Oct 23, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Romancing SaGa 2: Revenge of the Seven is praised as the ideal RPG remake, successfully preserving the core game design while enhancing the presentation, making it a must-play for RPG fans and a great entry point for newcomers to the SaGa franchise.

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NintendoWorldReport

Nintendo Switch

Oct 23, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Romancing SaGa 2: Revenge of the Seven is praised as an unmissable RPG that stands among the giants of the genre, with engaging gameplay, charming world-building, and nonlinear trappings.

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RPGamer

Nintendo Switch

Nov 14, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Romancing SaGa 2: Revenge of the Seven is a remarkable remake that retains the charm of the original while introducing modern gameplay elements, making it a must-play for JRPG fans.

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Digitally Downloaded

PlayStation 5

Oct 23, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Romancing SaGa 2: Revenge of the Seven is praised for its ambitious remake effort, strong gameplay mechanics, and compelling dynasty mechanic. While the storytelling is limited, the game offers a unique and engaging experience with high replay value.

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Worth Playing

PlayStation 5

Oct 23, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Romancing SaGa 2: Revenge of the Seven is a polished remake that retains the essence of the original game while adding modernization and accessibility. With engaging gameplay, fantastic visuals and music, and high replay value, it stands out as one of the best RPGs, despite a somewhat thin story. Overall score: 9.0/10

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But Why Tho?

Nintendo Switch

Oct 23, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Romancing SaGa 2: Revenge of the Seven is a spectacular RPG with a massive story, engaging gameplay, and some technical issues, making it one of the best RPGs of 2024.

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Digital Chumps

PlayStation 5

Oct 25, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Romancing SaGa 2: Revenge of the Seven is praised as an amazing remake that retains the charm of the original while introducing modern gameplay elements, making it a worthwhile experience despite some imperfections.

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Cubed3

Nintendo Switch

Apr 7, 2025

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Romancing SaGa 2: Revenge of the Seven is a multifaceted and deep RPG that excels in gameplay and presentation, though it may overwhelm newcomers. Its rich systems and engaging story make it a worthwhile experience.

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Meristation

Nintendo Switch

Nov 5, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Romancing SaGa 2: Revenge of the Seven is an excellent remake and a unique RPG experience that is highly recommended for fans of the genre, despite its performance issues.

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PlayStation Universe

PlayStation 5

Oct 23, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Romancing SaGa 2: Revenge of the Seven is praised for its ambitious narrative, engaging gameplay, faithful graphics and sound design, and high replay value. Despite some minor oddities, the remake is considered a convincing effort by Square Enix, showcasing their commitment to revitalizing classic RPGs.

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