Valkyrie Profile 2: Silmeria is the sequel to a very original PlayStation RPG that united a love of 2D gameplay with an interesting story and a lot of complex "systems." The game's numerous small innovations and beautiful character designs earned the game a lot of fans, but some players and critics had a hard time coming to terms with some of the game's focus on technical detail and often unforgiving nature. Silmeria is the kind of sequel that can never be divorced from its predecessor, but despite the similarity, the developers have made conscious decisions that will significantly change the game.
One unique element is that despite being fully 3D in its presentation, it frequently goes for a 2D view for tight, precise gameplay. The game occasionally switches just for style when the player explores towns, but overall the change is much more than cosmetic. When navigating a dangerous area, Valkyrie Profile 2 comes close to resembling a classic 2D platformer.
The so-called photon system lets Alicia freeze enemies to use as steps to cross gaps and reach higher places. Hitting an enemy with a second photon will cause Alicia to warp and switch positions with the enemy, allowing for some pretty complex maneuvers. A similar, simpler system was used in the last game. Freezing foes also allows you to easily strike them with your sword -- perfect for getting the first strike in the game's combo-crazed, big-damage battles.
