Onmyoji 2, released in December, received a high score of 36 from Famitsu, earning it a place in the Platinum Hall of Fame once again.
While the score was respectable, it was three points lower than its predecessor, Onmyoji.
Here's what the four reviewers had to say about the game:
[Reviewer 1:]
[ Onmyoji 2 immerses players with its breathtaking visuals, gripping combat, and relentlessly engaging gameplay loop. Whether it's the art direction, character design, playability, or script, this game stands as a benchmark for the industry. ]
[ The only flaw— ]
[ It's a sequel to Onmyoji. ]
[ It failed to achieve a significant breakthrough beyond its predecessor, so I deducted one point. ]
[Reviewer 2:]
[ From a personal perspective, Onmyoji 2 is an unforgettable masterpiece. Even with my eyes closed, I can vividly picture the protagonist's stunning image. The sheer impact of this experience alone warrants its place in the Platinum Hall of Fame. ]
[ I'll refrain from spoilers here. ]
I can only say that Onmyoji 2, like its predecessor Onmyoji 1, is a game that every player should experience at least once in their lifetime.
But it's a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Because after playing it once, you'll never have the courage to experience it again.
Yet this doesn't diminish the game's profundity. Even a single playthrough remains etched in your memory, a lifelong, unforgettable experience.
The reason for the 9/10 score is primarily because Onmyoji 2 serves as both a supplement and a reinvention of Onmyoji 1. The combat system and mechanics are nearly identical.
Without Onmyoji 1, I would undoubtedly have given it a perfect 10/10.
I hope Pokeni can achieve even greater breakthroughs in the future.
Onmyoji 2 is undoubtedly a surprise at the end of the year. I never thought I'd get to play it before the year was out.
After playing Onmyoji 1, everyone harbors a flicker of anticipation for the future story and the unresolved regrets of the past. This anticipation is what we've entrusted to Onmyoji 2.
In this regard, Pokeni has done an excellent job.
For those who played Onmyoji 1, Onmyoji 2 will undoubtedly meet your expectations.
In [ Onmyōji 2 ], the female characters are portrayed with greater depth, complexity, and fullness.
Among them, Takiya, the second female lead, deserves special mention.
I personally found Takiya's storyline particularly compelling due to its twists and the profound exploration of her inner world.
In contrast, Kurai Tsuki, the second female lead in [ Onmyōji 1 ], feels somewhat one-dimensional.
This isn't to say Kurai Tsuki isn't a good character, but I personally believe Takiya possesses a more individualistic charm.
Image: Takiya
The galgame portion goes without saying—it's exceptional.
So exceptional that you can hardly believe such a refined work could be played on a game console in this era.
The female protagonists each have distinct personalities, and I'm sure at least one will resonate with you watching on your screen.
The only regret is that, perhaps due to the influence of the first game, [ Onmyōji 2 ] didn't forge a truly unique path.
But on closer reflection, given the task of completing the narrative of the first game, achieving this level of quality is already remarkable.
For this reason, I've given it a high score of 9.
The central theme of both [ Onmyōji 1 ] and [ 2 ] is undoubtedly the romance between humans and yokai, and the inherent conflict between humans and demonic creatures.
The battle between the Izanagi Clan and the Yamata no Orochi became a central theme for the Onmyōji.
Love and hatred intertwined, the choices between humanity and beloved, sacrifice and redemption...
These beautiful elements composed a soul-stirring symphony.
Even now, as I write these words, the music from Onmyoji 2 continues to linger in my mind, its melody still echoing in my heart.
And the vivid faces of the characters.
Onmyoji is like a poison—it makes you suffer excruciatingly, yet you crave it with all your being.
For players, a game like this will never disappoint.
In this installment, the narrative's sense of mystery is particularly noteworthy.
The script is so cleverly designed that even after beating the game, you'll find yourself replaying scenes in your mind.
Yet, the more you delve into it, the more fear you feel.
I've never before experienced a game that could achieve such a level of depth.
This only proves that producer Kogahara Tsubakiaki and scriptwriter Urobuchi Gen put their hearts into crafting a truly unique experience for us.
I originally wanted to give it a perfect 10, but after much deliberation, the knot in my heart couldn't be untangled.
In the end, I decided on a 9. It's not that Onmyoji 2 has flaws; quite the opposite. It's too perfect, which is why I had to deduct a point.
"Ah, this..."
Aoki Haruhi gasped, his mood plummeting.
The earlier comments were manageable, but the final one from the Famitsu editor was unbearable.
What do you mean, it's too perfect, so I have to deduct a point?!
Are you afraid I'll get arrogant if I get a perfect score?
Seeing Aoki Haruhi's indignant expression, HR Ayase Akane beside him couldn't help but find it amusing.
How confident must the President be to be dissatisfied with such a high score of 36?
Being selected for the Platinum Hall of Fame twice isn't something every game series achieves.
Just be grateful.
Despite his dissatisfaction with the review, Aoki Haruhi remained grateful to Famitsu.
Re-entering the Platinum Hall of Fame meant their future game sales would likely double again.
Last time, it was Famitsu's timely coverage that saved Pokeni from bankruptcy.
However, one question lingered in his mind:
Why was Famitsu's report so prompt back then?
And do they review every game released?
It all felt a little too coincidental.
"By the way, President, the New Year is just around the corner. Will the company be hiring more talent after the holidays?
I hope you'll send me the job openings and requirements as soon as possible so I can start screening and arranging candidates.
Otherwise, things will get really busy after the year-end rush." Ayase Akane reminded him from the side.
Aoki Haruhi looked up and gave her a mischievous glance.
"Hmm? You're still handling recruitment?"
"Hmph! President!" Ayase Akane puffed out her cheeks. "Don't say that! I'm the HR manager!"
"Show some respect for my profession occasionally! Stop making me do secretarial work!"
"Alright, alright." Aoki Haruhi nodded in surrender. "Just kidding."
"As for hiring..."
He crossed his arms and pondered carefully.
The project hadn't been finalized yet. Deciding what the next game would be before recruiting might be ill-advised.
However...
"We definitely need to hire musical talent first. No matter what kind of game we develop in the future, we need to fill the company's weaknesses."
"Understood. I'll make a note of that." Ayase Akane lowered her head and began writing in her notebook.
"Ah, right, Ayase-san," Aoki Haruhi cleared his throat and raised the water glass on the table. "We're out of drinks."
"Oh."
Ayase Akane quickly put down her pen, stood up, and took the glass.
"President, would you prefer tea or coffee?"
"Coffee, please."
"Right away."
Ayase Akane walked familiar steps toward the nearby water station.
"Huh?!"
She suddenly froze, as if waking from a dream, and turned back.
"President!"
"I'm here." Aoki Haruhi's burly frame shuddered.
"Why am I still doing secretarial work?" Ayase Akane frowned, her small nose wrinkling in displeasure. "Please seriously consider hiring a secretary first, won't you?"
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