After Lufia's flat debut came a new reference point. Lufia II: Rise of the Sinistrals suddenly incorporated Zelda spices into the old formula - borrowing a few tools and puzzle designs alongside secrets and backtracking elements injecting additional purpose to dungeons. That influence is reflected in their broad range of puzzle-solving challenges that occasionally can get quite tricky and clever. Its less confining gameplay equaled its overhauled battle system as well, that contained new mechanics such as the IP meter, equipment skills, spell partitioning, capsule monsters, etc. Each of those contributing to expand combat capabilities. Although a little held back by its overly straightforward progression, repetitive areas and non-existent difficulty, a greater attention to storytelling and comedic moments at least displayed more depth in personality. Both more intricate and more charming than the debut, Lufia II rejected the notion that JRPG dungeons had to be single-use, mostly forgettable trials.