A sequel that's more of the same, for better and worse. Ryza 2 has seen a noticeable bump in quality, not only in terms of visuals but a lot of smart QOL features, particularly in terms of its combat which feels much more fluid and engaging than the first game. Its systems can still be a little overwhelming, especially when it doesn't always communicate to you how important some of those systems are compared to others, but there's still a ton of depth in terms of its crafting if you're really into that sort of thing.

If it takes a step back in any singular area, however, it's certainly in its story. While Ryza 2 retains a lot of the laid-back charm of the first game's narrative, there just isn't anything as compelling as that game's sense of adolescent freedom to push you forward. The plot primarily revolves around the cute little companion of Fi that is given to Ryza, but I never felt attached enough to it to have this game's story beats mean much to me. The late-game reveals that add a sense of urgency to the proceedings only serve to tread similar ground to what Ryza 1 already did. And while the returning cast was still strong and I enjoyed seeing how they all had changed in the three years of in-universe time that had passed, the newer characters never truly ingrain themselves into the friend group, feeling largely as outsiders who are merely along for the ride.

Still, quality game overall, and I'm very much looking forward to how the final game in the trilogy concludes the story of Ryza and her thighs friends.