Reviewer: An Amazon.com Customer from Pittsburgh, PA United States
Upon finishing FE 2, I have to admit it is one of the most unique and interesting games I have ever played. Its graphics and character models are superb, lending the game an ambience that is simultaneously eerie and beautiful. Although it does borrow its slanted camera angles from the RE series, it still has a wholly original and distinctive feel. The voice acting is also to be commended; it's among the best that I have ever experienced.

Despite the awkward control and poorly designed inventory scheme, what really distinguishes FE 2 from others in its genre to make it a classic is how it incorporates Chinese mythology into a unique (and mature) sci-fi storyline using compelling characters. Usually action video games revolve around hackneyed plots of military operatives and shadowy government conspiracies, so many will be pleased to discover this alternative. The storyline manages to unfold in a well-paced and coherent manner that keeps the player anticipating the next CG cut scene and many of the puzzles are neatly integrated into the context of the plot.

The main drawback of this game is its difficulty. Much of the challenge in the action sequences is simply mastering the art of trial and error as well as the controls which compound the frustration. Needless to say, the added "quick load" feature of FE 2 is a merciful addition to the series. Many of the puzzles are equally trying, but, in the final assessment, they are a big part of what make FE 2 so great. They stand as among some of the most engrossing challenges in a video game to date.

Be forewarned: FE 2 is not for the weak of heart! For those who are up to the challenge (and a little frustration along the way), I highly recommend this game.

Reviewer: An Amazon.com Customer from Philadelphia, PA United States
I recently purchased this game a few days ago, realising that Fear Effect 3 will come in 2003 sometime. For the review, with this game, one gets to experience the ultimate frustration and intensity of the game and for the game. In this game, unlike others such as Tomb Raider or Resident Evil, one learns how to die -- a lot. The puzzles aren't too complicated, but some of them are somewhat difficult, especially the "reflex" tests, where you have to dodge enemies and various threats.

The bosses in this game aren't too hard per se, but they do make Resident Evil seem like child-play, especially the latter levels. Like in Tomb Raider and Resident Evil, one will practice tremendously to eliminate the bosses, and unlike Tomb Raider and Resident Evil, one will need to be truly conservative with your ammo and resources. One has to choose your targets wisely! In a few words: you will die, and you will learn to die constantly, persistently and gracefully (hopefully). The graphics of this game is actually very, very crisp and detailed for an anime look. I like the level where you visit the Tomb of the First Emperor.

They got it down nearly perfectly. Even the sound effects are well-done, with the perfect sound effect for the weapons, movement and characters. Lastly, the story and the characters are very mature, and they do curse and this game does involve suggestive lesbianism. If you liked the Metal Gear Solid series, then this is the game to get, but the story for this game is much stranger and resembles something like the Twilight Zone and Total Recall.