• Publisher: Capcom
  • Release Date: Jul 7, 2004
Metascore
59

Mixed or average reviews - based on 32 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 6 out of 32
  2. Negative: 10 out of 32
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  1. Much more frustrating than fun.
  2. The disappointing sequel keeps the open ended play of the original, but the menial chores and lacking play mechanics could make any samurai give up on their career path.
  3. 40
    With its fair share of gameplay issues and dated presentation, this Samurai walks away with his blade between his legs.
  4. It's graceful to the point of being sedate.
  5. Think of it as a choose-your-own-adventure book set in the Edo period of Japanese history—in other words, a very special form of excruciating, ritual torture.
  6. Even the main characters - the ones voiced over in cut-scenes - have an annoying American accent that just shatters the whole illusion, and they sound like they're talking to you through a king hangover mixed with a few pints of disinterest.
  7. The challenging combat does spice up proceedings, but the ubiquitous camera problems associated with these types of game and uninspiring graphics will soon make you want to turn your sword on yourself in true samurai fashion.
  8. You have to commend Way of the Samurai 2 for trying something different, but its myriad design flaws, weak delivery and repetitive nature serve as a reminder that different doesn't necessarily mean fun.
  9. Like those vacuum-powered hair trimmers, this one sucks while it cuts. [July 2004, p.116]
  10. This game is so awful that I can't even recommend it as a weekend rental. Between the load times, boring plot, stiff combat, and lame voice acting, Capcom should've never put its name on the package, and quite frankly, I'm rather shocked that they did.

Awards & Rankings

84
#84 Most Discussed PS2 Game of 2004
User Score
8.8

Generally favorable reviews- based on 31 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 28 out of 31
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 31
  3. Negative: 3 out of 31
  1. Jun 17, 2012
    10
    A great samurai game to play. It is very hard to find a samurai game better than this. I can't finish all the stories without a guide.A great samurai game to play. It is very hard to find a samurai game better than this. I can't finish all the stories without a guide. However, this game is great. Must play if you are interested in Japanese culture. Full Review »
  2. MarioT.
    Nov 17, 2005
    10
    the best game ever! This game shows how samurais life is hard and endless.Great story, great music & great weapons.
  3. VLG
    Aug 22, 2023
    10
    One of my favorite games of all time. The way you could chose between many ways to react, and how the story branched out into dozens ofOne of my favorite games of all time. The way you could chose between many ways to react, and how the story branched out into dozens of endings is something i still love. The story, also, was amazing. The combat system, all the weapons available (every single one with their own moves), all the secrets... Just perfect. Full Review »