Soul Calibur II (XBX)

The sound follows a similar pattern. Everything seems to have been tweaked, but many of the battle sounds have carried over from the old game. The game’s majestic music score, though, will keep you from paying it too much mind. It seems like many of the fighters grunts, groans and battle cries have been ported from the Dreamcast, with exception of the accompanying English taunts. The voiceovers are commendable, to be sure, but hearing “Justice must prevail! Just kidding!” in English boggles the mind. Reading a subtitle that’s been lost in translation is charming; English dubbing of such phrases sounds bizarre. Fortunately, you have the option to change the language to Japanese, and I recommend you do so before cranking up the game.

As for the females in the game, it was good to see the fighting mistresses from the 1999 game return in top form. I’ve always favored Ivy and her incredible chain sword, now she’s back with a few more tricks up her bustier. Xiangua and Taki make repeat performances as well. In addition to the bustification of Taki, I was annoyed to hear that the developers didn’t ditch her oddly out of place girlish scream. The rest of her vocals sound like they belong to a kick ass diva, and if she takes damage during battle, she’ll, at times, let loose with the high-pitched scream of an 8-year-old girl. It’s weird. Either way, though, Taki and her fast-paced Ninja moves still make her a favored character. Also look for the new, powerful Cassandra in place of Sophitia, and the adorable yet lethal Halim. Overall, this installation features lots of strong female characters, and it’s hard to think for a better display of girl power in the recent crop of games.

Despite all the criticisms a raving Soul Calibur fan can toss at this game, it’s still one of the greatest fighting games ever to grace the market. Soul Calibur II is a must buy this fall and for anyone who appreciates the art of gaming. And there’s no kidding about that. back>

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