As with the first game, Sparks of Hope is a very solid, if entry level, strategy game but this one adds a lot to the gameplay both in battles and out. The levels themselves have far more to do in them and are very explorable, I had a lot of fun scouring each one meticulously. As for the battles, I felt that the new additions added tremendously to the overall feel and strategizing that made even the optional random enemy battles fun to play. I almost never fled a battle. The story was interesting enough though much of the dialogue was a bit cheesy and aimed more towards young players. Still overall a very strong sequel that outdoes the original in most ways. I am looking forward to the DLC and would certainly be interested in another sequel.