Metascore
85

Generally favorable reviews - based on 31 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 28 out of 31
  2. Negative: 0 out of 31
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  1. All I know is that the horrible performance, a few random crashes, and other minor bugs have severely diminished my enjoyment of an otherwise addictive and excellently written Star Wars RPG.
  2. A really good RPG, but only if you’re part of the lucky minority that can run the game with none of the huge technical problems everyone else is suffering from.
  3. The interesting decisions and the gripping characters still manage to hook their addictive claws into the player and almost make it easy forget about the game’s many shortcomings. In this case, “almost” is good enough.
User Score
8.5

Generally favorable reviews- based on 960 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Negative: 48 out of 960
  1. AndrewB
    Feb 16, 2005
    10
    I usually don't go into sites like this and rate my favorite game, but after seeing the rating I felt I had to give my opinion: this is I usually don't go into sites like this and rate my favorite game, but after seeing the rating I felt I had to give my opinion: this is simply one of the best RPGs I've played. Amazing interface, plotline, and interactivity. I have not been this impressed by a game in a long time. Full Review »
  2. Feb 6, 2013
    10
    The pinnacle of the RPG genre, KOTOR II gives the player a diverse array of complex characters, a rich and exotic universe, and a deepThe pinnacle of the RPG genre, KOTOR II gives the player a diverse array of complex characters, a rich and exotic universe, and a deep fulfilling plot that will keep you thinking (and maybe--hopefully, even replaying) long after you've put your controller down. It begins steeped in thee unknown, with your arrival aboard a badly damaged derelict ship under mysterious circumstances, headed for an abandoned mining facility, you are quickly tasked, much like the games predecessor, to reveal your origins, and unveil the secrets surround your past and peer into the greater scope of the plot itself. Observing the surroundings as you go through the game, learning about the peoples and cultures you find yourself in the midst of, you may very well become overwhelmed by the wealth of characters you encounter, many who may reference a history your unfamiliar with. If you've played the previous title, or read any of the comics, you'll be aided to some extent in your quest for self-discovery with the prior knowledge of events that have had a profound effect on the peoples and environments you come across. (like a planet, ruined by the conflict that takes place in the first game) yet even if you have not, dont let this discourage you. These additions are largely atmospheric and text related, and will not significantly hinder you in your journey. The planets you travel to are well designed, thought out, and written. I found myself so capitivated by the strange and ordinary figures i encountered, that i constantly lost track of what the hell the main objective was i'm supposed to accomplish. More intriguing then that is your own companions. From the cryptically cynical, to comically murderous, no two characters in KOTOR II are alike. In fact, you'd be hard pressed to find one that shares any noticeable similarities at all- in Mannerism, ideology, humor, or communication. One of the new features added from the original that adds to the relationship you have with these characters is influence. As the plot progresses you will be challenged at one point or another with one more dilemma after the other. What one praises you for the other might scorn. The higher standing you are with one, the more dialogue options become possible, and the lower, the less. The former, revealing fascinating insights into the supporting lore, their personal thoughts and stories, as well as even their most closely guarded secrets. The voice acting is exceptional, and adds a feeling of immersion that no technological marvels of graphic improvement could achieve. The plot is a dark, engrossing, well crafted and most of all original, drawing its strength from a number of story-telling aspects, from political drama, to a psychological thriller filled with unexpected twists, to its bits of comic relief, and surprisingly deep, philosophic moments of reflection, there's really a little something for everyone that really serves to open up the game to a broader audience. Overall, i can say with confidence, that this has been my favorite game i have had the pleasure of playing to date. I can not recommend it enough, and can truly say, its a wonder unto itself, a one of a kind piece that is the equal or greater of any classical example of literature of film. Its doesnt shine with the unfathomable graphic advances we have come to feel entitled to, and it may have been cut short due at the crunch time of development and thus feel awkwardly unfinished at times, yet once you can get over that, your in for a great time you wont soon forget. Full Review »
  3. Mar 23, 2011
    9
    A bit buggy, partially unfinished and still it managed to be better than the first game? Well, to be fair it's not difficult to surpassA bit buggy, partially unfinished and still it managed to be better than the first game? Well, to be fair it's not difficult to surpass Bioware in almost every department. Bioware delivered a story about a Disney villain trying to take over the galaxy with a plot twist so utterly laughable and obvious that I can't imagine people didn't see it after the opening credits roll. KOTOR2 is not just about the ancient lurking evil coming to take over the galaxy. It's about a jedi knight finding out about his/her connection the force and learning about the responsibilities of always acting the neutral party. It's an enjoyable journey to say the least and you're not going to think it's unfinished until after you've finished it. If you do want to put the unfinished stuff back in, there's a patch out there for you. Full Review »