Not sure if I'm having a flashback or just playing Two Worlds II for the Xbox 360, the new RPG (Role-Playing-Game) / Action game. First and foremost the graphics on Two Worlds II literally look and perform like PC games did back in the year 2000.
These blurry, boxy, and general ugly graphics may be enough to make most modern day video gamers move on to the next game, but there is something addictive lurking within Two Worlds II.

Something that can make the generic and stiff voice acting, along with the clumsy and sometimes confusing menu and map systems not matter as much as they should. That something is the story, no not the generally generic main story but the little side stories that will keep you exploring and completing missions in light of all that is wrong with Two Worlds II.

The large map that comprises the world of Antaloor, which you'll need to save from evil destruction is filled with wildlife, towns, trails, and monsters; and is a joy to roam through. The map itself is comprised of numerous islands surrounded by a pretty large ocean which is also a lot of fun to swim in and travel through.

What also makes this game addictive is the way you can combine together unique spells and weapons, you can combine different powers to really make powerful unique spells you couldn't get in any other game. You can also keep upgrading your weapon with power stones and upgrades as your character progresses in their blacksmithing skills.

Another mildly satisfying aspect of this game is the online play, especially village mode, which can add days and hours onto the life of this title. Outside of Village mode the other online modes get repetitive and just don't pull me in to the game.

The combat system on Two Worlds II is a bit sloppy and unresponsive. Blocking and striking aren't as clean and responsive as they should be, and casting powerful spells during combat doesn't really seem to translate on screen as well as it should. Shooting arrows and doing assassin attacks can be enjoyable and satisfying, and more deadly then most of my spells.

Upgrading your character is also well done, you have numerous areas and skill sets to improve on which really translate to how well your character performs and how adapt your character will become at crafting spells, weapons and potions.

For all the bad things Two Worlds II does and will probably get torched for in reviews this game can be a serviceable distraction for a few weeks for a jonesing RPG fan, while we all wait with great anticipation for Oblivion II.

I give Two Worlds II a 3.7 / 5, and definitely recommend renting for any RPG fan looking for a challenge.

3.5 - Graphics

4.25 - Sound

3.75 - Game play

3.5 - Story

3.75 - Multiplayer

3.5 - Video Game Magic*

* Video Game Magic is the video game's ability to transport you the player into the game experience - usually the effects this has on the human condition are, severe loss of time management, extreme video game jonesing, and an extended altered state of reality.