In a weird way, even though this is a strict improvement over Battle Network 1, this game kind of makes me like BN1 even less. By implementing a bunch of QOL features, it lays bare the other problems, namely how much padding and backtracking you do for zero reason. Also, I remember the story being largely inconsequential but there are sections of the story that straight up contribute to nothing and only waste your time.

Luckily, the Star Force crossover content here is easily the best part of the game. It kind of shows how the devs found their footing once they got BN1 out the door and figured out what works and what doesn't. The writing in this section is also leagues better, it actually made me laugh a lot.