Prinny Presents: NIS Classics Vol 2 is a compilation that brings together two classic Nippon Ichi Software (NIS) games: Phantom Brave: The Hermuda Triangle Remastered and Soul Nomad & the World Eaters. While it's always exciting to revisit beloved games from the past, this collection is a mixed bag of experiences that may leave players feeling both satisfied and disappointed.
Let's start with Phantom Brave: The Hermuda Triangle Remastered. This remastered version of the strategic role-playing game offers enhanced graphics and additional content. The core gameplay remains intact, where players control Marona, a young girl who can summon spirits to fight alongside her. The unique feature of Phantom Brave is the absence of a grid-based system, allowing for more freedom in positioning units during battles. The story is intriguing, and the characters are charming, but the game's pacing feels sluggish at times. The remastered visuals are a welcome improvement, but the overall experience may not captivate newcomers to the genre.
On the other hand, Soul Nomad & the World Eaters presents a more engaging and memorable experience. This tactical role-playing game puts players in the shoes of the silent protagonist, who must save the world from the destructive World Eaters. The game's dark and mature storyline, along with its complex gameplay mechanics, make it a standout title in the collection. The ability to customize and upgrade units adds depth to the strategic battles, and the multiple endings provide replay value. The graphics have been polished for the remastered version, but some aspects still show their age. Despite these minor flaws, Soul Nomad & the World Eaters is the highlight of the compilation.
While both games offer enjoyable gameplay and nostalgic value, the overall presentation of Prinny Presents: NIS Classics Vol 2 leaves something to be desired. The user interface feels clunky and could have benefited from some modernization. Additionally, the lack of additional features or bonuses, such as developer interviews or concept art galleries, makes this collection feel barebones.
In terms of performance, the games run smoothly and without any major issues. Load times are reasonable, and the controls are responsive. The soundtracks of both games are memorable and add to the overall experience.
In conclusion, Prinny Presents: NIS Classics Vol 2 is a decent compilation that brings together two classic NIS games. While Soul Nomad & the World Eaters shines as the standout title, Phantom Brave: The Hermuda Triangle Remastered falls slightly short of expectations. The lack of additional features and the clunky user interface are disappointing, but the overall gameplay and nostalgic value make it worth considering for fans of the genre and those looking to relive their past gaming adventures.
