Halloween is the perfect time to dive into video games full of ghosts, goblins, and all sorts of fantastical monsters. One of the most beloved dark fantasy series in gaming from the original PlayStation is the Legacy of Kain series, which included the Blood Omen and Soul Reaver games. And 25 years ago, the day before Halloween night, Soul Reaver 2 arrived on the PlayStation 2.
The Soul Reaver games are a continuation of the overarching story of The Legacy of Kain. Unlike the Blood Omen series, which focused on the titular Kain, Soul Reaver gave players a new hero, the wraith named Raziel. Instead of draining blood from foes in battle, Raziel would take the souls of the enemies he defeats.
The Reaper of Souls Returns
Soul Reaver 2 was released on October 30, 2001 for the PlayStation 2 from Crystal Dynamics and Eidos Interactive. The plot of the game continues right after the events of Legacy of Kain: Soul Reaver. Raziel is plunged into a chaotic struggle between seeking revenge against the vampire Kain, and discovering the truth about his former life, which ties into a dark conspiracy that will affect many in the land of Nosgoth.
Although it’s the third game in the Legacy of Kain series, Soul Reaver 2 is the second time we see Raziel in the franchise. However, the events of this game directly tie into what happens in its sequel, Legacy of Kain: Defiance, which ties everything in the overall franchise together. While many of the dark elements, tone, and gameplay of its predecessor carried over, Soul Reaver 2 is a much more cinematic experience with its story.
The presentation and voice acting in Soul Reaver 2 are some of the most praised aspects of the game by critics. The majority of the Legacy of Kain series has amazing voice acting, with monologues and line delivery that make every sentence feel important or darkly sinister. Throughout the game, Raziel has moments of reflection that make his journey feel epic, yet only a small part of a much deeper and darker fantasy world.
A Legacy That Lives On
Although critics were quick to point out the lack of replay value, Soul Reaver 2 did very well commercially on the PlayStation 2. Most players loved the dark atmosphere, great soundtrack, and intriguing story. Raziel continued to be a popular fan favorite character, depsite not being the central figure of the franchise.
While it wasn’t as beloved as other games in the Legacy of Kain series, its events would be a major factor in the next entry of the series, Legacy of Kain: Defiance. However, it wouldn’t be the last time gamers would see of Raziel. Soul Reaver 2 would eventually be remastered for modern consoles in 2024 as part of the Legacy of Kain: Soul Reaver 1 + 2 Remastered bundle.
