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MONSTER

Star Ocean: The Second Story R

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Star Ocean: The Second Story R
Item: Star Ocean: The Second Story R
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2023

GenresFantasy, Adventure, Action, Third Person Perspective, Platformer, RPG, Anime and JRPG, Single Player

AvailableNov 2, 2023

PlatformPlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, PC

DeveloperGemdrops

Overview

Two worlds, one fateful encounter. In an endless sea of stars, at the edge of the universe, two people who live in different worlds go on a journey to save planet Expel. Choose your path and witness an awakened destiny.

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Star Ocean: The Second Story R impresses with engaging characters and a dual-protagonist approach, praised for its blend of sci-fi and fantasy. Critics highlight the depth from personal quests and multiple endings, but the narrative suffers from simplicity and predictability, often feeling clichéd and meandering. While the character interactions create emotional connections, the story's reliance on classic JRPG tropes may hinder its broader appeal. Overall, it’s an enjoyable experience that could use a more innovative plot to match its character dynamics.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

71%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

29%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The story of Star Ocean: The Second Story R has garnered a range of positive feedback from critics, particularly regarding its engaging characters and the dual-protagonist approach. Many reviewers, such as GameSpot and IGN France, highlighted the character development and personal quests of Claude and Rena, which serve as compelling plot drivers. Critics like Digital Chumps and COGconnected praised the blend of sci-fi and fantasy elements, noting how the protagonists' personal struggles add depth to the narrative. The inclusion of multiple endings and player choices, emphasized by critics like NintendoWorldReport and Multiplayer.it, enhances the overall experience, allowing for a more personalized journey through the game’s world. However, the story is not without its criticisms. Several reviewers pointed out that the narrative can feel simplistic, clichéd, or even dated, with some elements reminiscent of older JRPG tropes. For instance, GamingTrend and GAMES.CH noted that the plot lacks real hooks and can become meandering, particularly in the later stages. Critics like TierraGamer and INVEN echoed similar sentiments, describing the story as straightforward yet predictable, which detracts from the overall excitement. Additionally, the pacing issues mentioned by PlaySense and PC Invasion suggest that the narrative could benefit from a more consistent flow and stronger pacing, particularly in the introduction of antagonists. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Star Ocean: The Second Story R offers a nostalgic and engaging experience with well-developed characters and a unique dual-protagonist system, it is hampered by a simplistic and sometimes predictable narrative. Reviewers like Push Square and Noisy Pixel acknowledged the charm and emotional connections fostered by character interactions, yet many agree that the story's reliance on classic JRPG tropes may limit its appeal to a broader audience. In summary, the game succeeds in delivering an enjoyable experience but could have benefitted from a more innovative and cohesive storyline to match its engaging character dynamics.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Star Ocean: The Second Story R impresses with its dynamic real-time combat and innovative mechanics, earning praise from critics for engaging gameplay and character customization. However, it faces criticism for challenging precision, AI issues, and a low difficulty level that may disappoint veteran players. Overall, it modernizes classic elements effectively, delivering a rich RPG experience that resonates with fans, despite some flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

76%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

24%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Star Ocean: The Second Story R has garnered a predominantly positive reception from critics, who have praised its engaging real-time combat system and the variety of new mechanics introduced. Reviewers like Noisy Pixel and Shacknews highlighted the excitement of the battle system, noting the freedom to control characters and the introduction of strategic features such as Counters, Assault Actions, and the Break system. Critics from IGN France and GameSpot echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the engaging nature of the combat and the improvements made to quality-of-life features, such as visible enemies on the map and the removal of random encounters. Additionally, the character progression and customization options have been noted as significant strengths, with critics like Gamer.no and RPGamer appreciating the depth and freedom offered to players in building their characters. However, while the overall gameplay experience is well-received, several critics pointed out notable flaws. For instance, PLAY! Zine mentioned that the combat system can be frustrating due to its precision requirements and chaotic nature, while Hardcore Gamer noted balance issues and shortcomings in AI behavior that can disrupt the flow of battles. Critics like IGN Brasil and Worth Playing also highlighted the game's relatively easy difficulty level, which may not provide a challenge for seasoned players. Moreover, some reviewers, including Push Square and LevelUp, expressed concerns about the clunky feel of the action-based combat compared to modern standards, indicating that certain aspects of gameplay may feel outdated. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Star Ocean: The Second Story R delivers a robust and engaging gameplay experience that successfully modernizes classic mechanics while introducing new features that enhance combat and exploration. Despite some criticisms regarding difficulty balance and AI issues, the majority of reviewers, such as COGconnected and Eurogamer Germany, agree that the game offers a rich and enjoyable RPG experience. The combination of strategic combat, character development, and exploration has resonated well with players, making it a commendable entry in the franchise.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Star Ocean: The Second Story R dazzles with a stunning 2.5D aesthetic that fuses pixel art with lush 3D environments, earning rave reviews for its nostalgic yet modern visuals. Critics laud its vibrant colors and improved character portraits, although some minor graphical hiccups, like pop-in and clipping, were noted—particularly on Switch. Overall, the game sets a new benchmark for remakes, successfully marrying old charm with modern appeal, despite some areas for refinement.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

96%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The graphics and visual design of Star Ocean: The Second Story R have received overwhelmingly positive feedback from critics, highlighting the successful blend of 2D and 3D elements. Many reviewers, including those from Jeuxvideo.com and IGN, praised the game’s 2.5D aesthetic, which combines pixel art characters with richly detailed 3D environments. Critics noted that this design choice not only maintains the nostalgic spirit of the original game but also enhances its visual appeal, creating a vibrant and immersive world. For instance, Digitally Downloaded described the art style as "gorgeous and immersive," while Eurogamer Germany emphasized the improved character portraits and item drawings that elevate the overall visual experience. The use of modern lighting and vibrant colors was also frequently mentioned, contributing to the game's stunning presentation. Despite the overall acclaim, some critics pointed out certain graphical issues that detracted from the experience. For example, while Multiplayer.it acknowledged the nostalgic aesthetic, they noted that some character sprites could have been improved further. Similarly, PLAY! Zine and Hardcore Gamer mentioned minor graphical issues like object pop-in and clipping, particularly on the Nintendo Switch version. TheGamer expressed a sense of nostalgia for the old pre-rendered backgrounds, suggesting that while the new graphics are upgraded, they may not resonate with all players in the same way. These critiques indicate that while the visual design is largely successful, there are areas where it could have been refined further. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Star Ocean: The Second Story R features a visually impressive and well-executed graphical overhaul that successfully marries the old with the new. The majority of reviewers, including those from GameSpot and Nintendo Life, highlighted the game's ability to create a unique art style that revitalizes the original while appealing to modern sensibilities. Critics like Digital Chumps even suggested that the visual presentation could set a new standard for future remakes. While some minor issues were noted, they did not significantly detract from the overall positive reception, reinforcing the idea that the graphics and visual design are among the standout features of this remake.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Star Ocean: The Second Story R boasts stunning sound design and a reorchestrated soundtrack praised for its beauty and immersive voice acting. Critics celebrate the blend of original and new music, enriching the gaming experience with dual-language options. However, some note issues with repetition and lack of variation, suggesting areas for improvement. Overall, the remake's audio elements are hailed as a triumph, successfully combining nostalgia with modern flair.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

81%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

19%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The sound design and music of Star Ocean: The Second Story R have received overwhelmingly positive feedback from critics, highlighting the significant enhancements made in this remake. Many reviewers, including Atomix and Digital Chumps, praised the reorchestrated soundtrack by Motoi Sakuraba, noting its beauty and the inclusion of both original and rearranged tracks. Critics like GameSpot and Shacknews emphasized the high quality of the voice acting, which adds to the overall immersion of the game. The ability to switch between English and Japanese voice acting, as noted by PlaySense and Vandal, further enriches the gaming experience, catering to a diverse audience. The incorporation of new music for story segments and boss battles, as mentioned by Digital Chumps, has also been well-received, with many noting the grandeur of the new orchestral pieces. Despite the overall acclaim, some critics pointed out certain shortcomings. Eurogamer Germany noted that while the soundtrack is beautiful, it lacks variation and restarts during battles, which may detract from the experience. Similarly, PlayStation Universe described the music arrangement as lackluster, suggesting that it could have been more engaging. Critics like IGN France echoed this sentiment, finding the remastered music somewhat forgettable at times. Additionally, PLAY! Zine mentioned that the music can become repetitive, which could hinder the overall enjoyment of the game. These critiques indicate that while the music is generally well-crafted, there are areas where it could have been more dynamic. In summary, the consensus among critics is that the sound design and music of Star Ocean: The Second Story R are largely successful, with many praising the enhancements made in the remake. The majority of reviewers, including those from Hardcore Gamer and RPGamer, highlighted the quality of the soundtrack and voice acting, which significantly elevate the game's overall experience. While some criticisms regarding repetition and lack of variation exist, they do not overshadow the positive reception of the game's auditory elements. Overall, the game is seen as a triumph in its sound design and music, successfully blending nostalgia with modern enhancements.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Star Ocean: The Second Story R boasts improved voice acting, receiving praise for emotional depth and re-recorded tracks, enhancing immersion. Critics appreciate the dual-language options but note shortcomings in the English dub, citing lackluster delivery and context that dampens emotional impact. Overall, it's a solid advancement with room for improvement.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

47%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

50%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The voice acting in Star Ocean: The Second Story R has garnered a generally positive reception from critics, highlighting several strengths that enhance the game's overall experience. Many reviewers, such as GameSpot and IGN France, noted significant improvements in voice acting quality compared to previous iterations, with more range and emotional depth. The inclusion of both English and Japanese voice options, as pointed out by Digital Chumps and Atomix, allows players to customize their experience, catering to diverse preferences. Additionally, the re-recorded voice tracks, mentioned by Jeuxvideo.com and God is a Geek, contribute positively to character interactions, making the narrative feel more immersive and engaging. Despite the overall praise, some criticisms have emerged regarding the voice acting. IGN Brasil described the English voice acting and translation as basic and lacking depth, which was echoed by PlayStation Universe, who noted that while the voice acting isn't the best, it maintains the story's pace. Worth Playing pointed out that while the voice acting choices are generally good, the delivery often lacks context, leading to moments where characters sound out of place in emotional situations. Furthermore, GamingTrend criticized the voice acting for lacking context and not matching the intended emotions of the scenes, indicating that there are inconsistencies that detract from the overall experience. The overall consensus among critics suggests that while Star Ocean: The Second Story R offers a commendable voice acting experience with notable improvements, there are areas that require attention. Reviewers like Shacknews and Noisy Pixel recognized the strong performances of many voice actors, contributing to a well-voiced game. However, the mixed feedback on the English dub's quality and emotional delivery indicates that there is room for improvement. Ultimately, the game is seen as a step forward in voice acting, with a solid foundation that could benefit from further refinement in future updates or iterations.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Star Ocean: The Second Story R impresses with solid technical performance, especially on PS5, where critics praise its stable 60FPS and fast loading times. The Switch version holds up well but faces minor issues like texture pop-ins and frame drops. Overall, the game enhances the classic experience with quality-of-life improvements, though some platform-specific flaws remain.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

68%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

32%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The technical performance of Star Ocean: The Second Story R has received generally positive feedback across all platforms, particularly on the PlayStation 5. Critics like Atomix and IGN France praised the game for its stable frame rates and smooth gameplay, with IGN noting fast loading times that contribute to a seamless experience. Wccftech highlighted the game's ability to maintain a steady 60 frames per second even during intense battles, while TierraGamer emphasized its superiority over previous iterations, indicating a polished experience. On the Nintendo Switch, reviewers such as MGG and Multiplayer.it acknowledged the game’s solid performance, with improvements in combat fluidity and overall gameplay experience. Critics like Press Start Australia even noted that the Switch version runs at 60FPS, which is commendable for a handheld console. The PC version, as discussed by INVEN, is also noted for its clean and modern system, suggesting good technical performance. However, there are some notable negatives across the platforms. On the PS5, Gameblog.fr raised concerns about technical performance issues during combat due to the mix of 2D and 3D elements, which could lead to confusion in gameplay. Minor clipping issues were also mentioned by IGN France, indicating that while the performance is solid, there are still some imperfections. On the Nintendo Switch, several critics pointed out minor issues such as texture pop-ins (Digitally Downloaded) and occasional frame drops during hectic battles (Nintendo Insider). While most reviews indicated that the game runs smoothly, some noted longer loading times (NintendoWorldReport and Pocket Tactics) and minor clipping issues (MGG and SpazioGames), suggesting that the Switch version may not be as optimized as its PS5 counterpart. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Star Ocean: The Second Story R delivers a commendable technical performance across all platforms, with the PS5 version being the standout for its stability and smoothness. While the Nintendo Switch version performs well and is generally well-received, it does have some minor technical issues that detract from the overall experience. The PC version also appears to hold up well, with no significant issues reported. The positive sentiments from critics like LevelUp and Worth Playing regarding the game’s quality-of-life improvements and polished interface further bolster the overall favorable reception, indicating that despite some minor drawbacks, the game successfully enhances the classic experience for both new and returning players.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Star Ocean: The Second Story R is a replayable gem, praised for its rich content, multiple endings, and character interactions that entice players to dive in repeatedly. Critics laud its dual protagonist system and unique relationship-building mechanics. However, some caution that certain accessibility features and unchanged core story events might limit replay appeal for some. Overall, it’s a compelling experience that invites multiple playthroughs, making it a hit for both newcomers and series veterans.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

80%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

20%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of Star Ocean: The Second Story R is overwhelmingly positive, with a consensus among critics that the game offers a rich and engaging experience that encourages multiple playthroughs. Many reviewers, such as Digital Chumps and GameSpot, highlight the vast amount of content available, including multiple endings, character interactions, and the New Game+ feature. The inclusion of unique Private Actions and the ability to explore different relationships with party members, as noted by critics like Eurogamer Germany and Hardcore Gamer, adds layers of depth that enhance replayability. Additionally, the game’s dual protagonist system and the option to recruit various party members, as mentioned by Hey Poor Player and IGN Adria, further incentivize players to experience the story from different perspectives. Despite the strong praise, some critics pointed out potential drawbacks that could affect replay value for certain players. Jeuxvideo.com noted that while the game offers multiple difficulty levels and customizable experiences, some comfort options might impact longevity, particularly for newcomers. This sentiment is echoed by a few other critics who express concerns about the accessibility of the game’s depth and complexity. Additionally, while the game is designed to encourage multiple playthroughs, some players may find the core story events remain relatively unchanged, which could diminish the incentive for some to replay the game extensively. In conclusion, the overall consensus among critics is that Star Ocean: The Second Story R boasts significant replay value, with the majority of reviews emphasizing its engaging content and character-driven narratives. Critics like Gameblog.fr and LevelUp commend the game for its ability to keep players invested through varied choices and interactions, while others like Wccftech and CGMagazine highlight the necessity of multiple playthroughs to fully experience the game’s offerings. While there are some concerns regarding accessibility and the impact of certain gameplay mechanics on replayability, the prevailing opinion is that the game successfully invites players to explore its rich world multiple times, making it a worthwhile experience for both newcomers and fans of the original.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

98%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment surrounding Star Ocean: The Second Story R is overwhelmingly positive, with many critics praising it as a definitive and well-crafted remake that successfully modernizes the original while retaining its charm. RPGamer highlighted the game as a strong recommendation for both newcomers and veterans, emphasizing its accessibility. Similarly, IGN France noted that the remake enhances the original while appealing to a broad audience of J-RPG fans, despite its niche status. Critics such as Push Square and Everyeye.it echoed these sentiments, commending the visual overhaul, quality of life improvements, and engaging gameplay that make it a must-play for RPG enthusiasts. The game has been described as a “master class in remaking a classic” by Worth Playing, further reinforcing the idea that it has set a high standard for future remakes in the genre. However, not all reviews were entirely positive, as some critics pointed out certain shortcomings. GamingTrend described the game as a "wildly inconsistent package," indicating that while the gameplay is enjoyable, it suffers from a lack of polish in various areas, particularly in the final segments. Eurogamer Germany mentioned that the resolution of the story may not satisfy all players, implying that narrative pacing could be an issue. Additionally, while many praised the gameplay mechanics, a few reviews noted that some aspects felt dated or unbalanced, which could detract from the overall experience for certain players. Despite these criticisms, the overall consensus among critics is that Star Ocean: The Second Story R is a successful and enjoyable remake that appeals to a wide audience. Critics like Shacknews and Digital Chumps emphasized its near-perfection as a way to experience the franchise, while others such as Nintendo Life and Vandal hailed it as one of the most impressive RPG releases of 2023. The majority of reviews reflect a shared appreciation for the game’s ability to blend nostalgia with modern enhancements, making it a highly recommended title for both new players and long-time fans of the series.

TL;DR

Star Ocean: The Second Story R is hailed as a standout remake that expertly modernizes the classic RPG while preserving its charm. Critics laud its accessibility, visual upgrades, and engaging gameplay, positioning it as a must-play for both new and veteran players. However, some note inconsistencies in polish and narrative pacing. Overall, it sets a high bar for future remakes, earning strong recommendations despite some minor flaws.

MONSTER

Reviews

87 reviews found

100

TouchArcade

Nintendo Switch

Nov 14, 2023

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

Star Ocean The Second Story R is an incredible remake that delivers on multiple fronts, making it highly recommended for RPG fans.

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100

Digitally Downloaded

Nintendo Switch

Nov 1, 2023

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

Star Ocean: The Second Story R is a modernized remake that retains all the great qualities of the original while giving it a luxurious overhaul. It is considered a masterpiece of the genre and highly recommended for JRPG fans.

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Universo Nintendo

Nintendo Switch

Nov 1, 2023

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

The reviewer highly recommends Star Ocean The Second Story R as a standout classic JRPG with improved graphics and gameplay.

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Press Start Australia

Nintendo Switch

Nov 1, 2023

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

The review concludes that Star Ocean: The Second Story R is a tremendous remake, praising the visual overhaul, the depth added to the mechanics, and considering it one of the best RPGs ever made.

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RPG Fan

Nov 1, 2023

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

Star Ocean: The Second Story R is considered the definitive version of the game and one of the best games in the series, with overwhelming accomplishments and few flaws.

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Gaming Age

PlayStation 5

Nov 9, 2023

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

Star Ocean: The Second Story R is a fantastic remaster that successfully modernizes a classic JRPG while retaining its charm. Highly recommended for fans of the genre.

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TierraGamer

PlayStation 5

Nov 8, 2023

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

Star Ocean: The Second Story R is praised as a worthy remake that revitalizes the original while maintaining its core elements, making it enjoyable for both nostalgic players and newcomers.

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Shacknews

PlayStation 5

Nov 1, 2023

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

Star Ocean: The Second Story R is a nearly perfect way to experience or revisit the best game in the Star Ocean franchise, with improvements in visuals, sound, combat, and side jobs.

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RPG Site

PlayStation 5

Nov 1, 2023

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

Star Ocean: The Second Story R successfully modernizes the game while adding new content that enhances the gameplay. Overall, it is a favorite among players in its enhanced form.

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Hardcore Gamer

PlayStation 5

Nov 28, 2023

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

Star Ocean: The Second Story R is a well-executed remake that enhances the original while retaining its charm, making it a must-play for both veterans and newcomers.

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