I started playing Warrior Within last week, right after completing Halo 2. In many ways, this is an improvement over it' s predecessor. Combat is much better, owing more to the Ninja Gaiden school of thinking. There' s tons of combos, more variety in enemies and some really cool bosses to boot. Platforming is as good as ever, with some new (minor) elements thrown in, such as the ability to slow your descent by ripping through hanging banners. Level design is as devious as ever, with more expansive rooms which feature more animated elements this time.
It all seems a bit less " brainy" , however. I' ve been playing for a good number of hours and I' ve yet to encounter a logical puzzle like the mirror puzzle in the first game. Getting through traps and platforms requires a bit more forethought and imagination than previously, but that' s about it so far.
The new darker tone makes for some very satisfying slayings and edgier action, but the look of the game as a whole has suffered a bit in my opinion. It' s still very atmospheric, but it looks a bit too " gothic" for my taste. Furthermore, I feel that the dialogue is less mature this time, despite a bit of profanity and more " cutting" remarks by the Prince. It all feels a bit forced this time around. I do miss the clever repartee between the Prince and Farah.
Despite those aesthetic and design misfires, the actual gameplay is improved, so it' s definitely worth buying if you enjoyed the first one. Oh, there are quite a few glitches in there (xbox version), such as some misplaced sound and erratically respawning enemies at some restart points, but nothing major or game-breaking.
< Message edited by dismiss -- 12/13/2004 1:16:55 PM >