Caligula 2 is a massive improvement over its predecessor, and the most surprising part was that the game is actually fun. The combat always had potential in OD, but the terrible balancing made it way too jank to enjoy. Thankfully this game takes that system and adds QOL and actual game balance to it that makes it not only better than the first, but some of the most satisfying jrpg combat i've played. Juggling enemies never stops being fun and i really enjoyed how avoiding damage and positioning actually matters a lot. I do think that the way floor jack works is kind of jank, it's really strong but you have to gather it before bosses to have access to it at the start of the battle, which felt awkward to me.

I actually really like the story of overdose, but i will admit it's extremely rough around the edges and hard to get into. Caligula 2 on the other hand has no caveats, it's just a damn good story with a well rounded and fleshed out cast, and a strong script. I think one of the best parts about the cast in this one is that it covers a gamut of relatable reasons why young adults are disillusioned and regret. Be it identity issues(gender and otherwise), decision paralysis, anxieties related to aging, etc. I'd be surprised if someone plays this game and doesn't relate to at least one character. The gender stuff in particular was a nice surprise for me because OD's treatment of it is awkward at best. This game actually understand youth and the issues they deal with unlike persona. The game doesn't give a solution to these issues either, they are just discussed and the main character gives prudent advice, and that's that. They aren't magically fixed, they are just given much needed emotional support and validation. In a way this represents what caligula 2 is all about, reality is hell, nothing will change that, but we have places like "redo"(aka media)and also connections with people to find respite and ourselves.

sidenote. While it's not necessary, I highly recommend playing OD and reading the Marie side novel before playing Caligula 2. Some of the strongest moments(esp marie) came from how it plays with your expectations if you experienced either of those things.