I'm a big .Hack// fan. I've read the manga, the novels, seen both anime series, plus the OVA and I have the collectors edition of this game.
First and for most let me say if you haven't watched the anime ".Hack//Roots" then please do so before playing this game. This is a direct sequel to that anime and the background history is needed. This game takes place around episode 22 of the anime.
Haseo has been data drained down to level 1 after his huge player killer killing spree which frankly was awesome in the anime. So now he's starting out and no one believes him when he says who he is.
The plot really takes a back seat here and it really feels more like a Hack story than the original 4 game series did. We explore the new characters and their motives all the while learning about everything that is new in The World.
The game also features the voice talent from the anime so it feels a lot more natural than some other things we've seen lately. Not only that but the game provides some decent tunes as well. While I wouldn't say it's as good as the anime or the previous game series, it's good enough.
The game might look the same to fans of the original game but man oh man have things changed. We still use key words to create a three word structure to open locations. What's different is that we no longer have a world and then a dungeon. It's just one place to explore.
My biggest problem with the original games is much more noticeable in this one. The locations are few and far between. We get caves, Japanese buildings or a bunch of islands. It doesn't vary past that.
However the game does do something different. Each types plays different. The islands require you to collect three symbols from three chests surrounded by enemies to open the door to the treasure. The caves work as a straight forward level and the Japanese building requires you to kick little rodents and use their spirits to open doors. It's not as complicated as it sounds as yellow rodents drop a soul worth ten while blue are one and most doors require 5 points.
But this isn't the only new thing for the game. The entire battle system has been revamped. Fans of Okami may find a familiarity to it all as you walk around you can see the enemies in groups of thee and a circle will appear around you and you just kill the guys. This works better than the past Hack games which were more hectic in nature.
Even the battle system has been overhauled and you can use your skills via a quick access menu from holding R1 and hitting one of the buttons. It works nicely and the fighting feels more like a 3D version of a Tales title than the clunky nature of the original game.
Your partner AI has also been improved over the past games and they seem to actually think on their own and heal you when it is needed.
The game isn't perfect though as it does have some flaws. First while the graphics are very pretty and have a total anime flavor to them, there is so nasty draw distance which does detract from the experience. There is also only one true town in this game so it isn't like there is a lot to see which is a shame. The cut scenes look great though.
Besides that we run into many tedious moments in the game. You will arrive in The World to talk to someone, receive an email and need to log out. Fine but when you do this about 5 times in a row it can drive you mad. Why can't I just check my mail without logging out of the world?
The game does do a fine job of creating a lively atmosphere with constant emails and chains with friends. You also get news feeds, community boards, message board and gaming news. The game provides an overload of information to dive into and for that one can be grateful as it makes this feel like a real MMO.
There are a few other things that the game has going on as well. The game features an arena which is basic fighting but against tougher enemies and you gain points and can rank up. This is very plot based as well and you'll spend a lot of time there in this volume of the game.
The other big change is the data drain segments. Instead of being painfully dull we go into a Dragon ball Z type mode where we float in the air, shoot stuff and dash and strike. It reminds me of the combat in Zone of the Enders actually. I enjoyed it for what it is but some of the enemies, which are pretty much the only bosses, are tough and you need to learn their patterns. There are no items or anything either so you can't really prepare for it all.
The game isn't exactly long either but it does feel a lot more real. You can run into random players in field and if someone is trying to player kill them you can help them out. You can still trade with other gamers. There is still the book of Ryu that contains every type of thing you do and rewards you with new desktop themes and music.
Not only that though but the game offers missions to undertake. These are fairly simple but add a nice diversion but that's what the game does anyway. This entire volume feels like it's a side quest to the real meat of the title and that might not be such a bad thing really as the ending left me wanting more and I was torn between starting Volume 2 or playing Xenosaga Episode II.
Hack fans will eat this game up and the more casual role player should also get enjoyment from this game. It doesn't force mundane tasks like the original did (core hunting...) and it has enough side stuff to do to keep anyone interested well past the credits. Just be warned that it will require three full games to get the whole story and you owe it to yourself to watch the anime before hand as it will flesh everything out a little more.
Story - 8/10
Graphics - 8/10
Sound - 8/10
Control - 9/10
Game Play - 8/10
Replay Value - 6/10
Final Score - 8/10
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