Nioh 2 is the best soulslike yet, a disruptive spin on the masocore genre that feels blessed with a blistering pace in combat despite its clever focus on tactics and staging in-between. By boldly splitting up the conventionally connected environments of its forebears, it delivers a replayable, pulse-pounding adventure for those trying to scratch the itch and offers the first fully co-op soulslike campaign – a revelation in its own right. Its devotion to history and folklore in tow, Nioh 2 forges a compelling identity for itself within a derivative genre.
The combat is a delightful dance dripping in feudal finesse ; Offers a revelatory co-op soulslike experience; A focus on Japan’s history and grisly Yokai folklore creates a mesmerizing world;
The Monster Hunter-esque item management and staging systems may be too much for some players; The gameplay is so engaging that players might overlook the considerable nuance of the story ;