I just received NMH2 from Amazon today, and i was eager as can be to play. I bought the original a few days after launch, and have since described it as the best original 3rd party game on Wii. But, based on my first hour or so, the sequel doesnt measure up.
Now, my impressions have nothing to do with the story, and a lot to do with core gameplay, as thats basically all ive experienced yet. The "double slash" (where little triangles appear) now feels detached and is no where near as satisfying. In the original, the technique provided feedback on screen almost instantaniously after the motion. In NMH2, the motions are followed by a second or two before the on-screen replications, creating a break in the sense of immersion.
Another problem is camera control. After playing for only an hour, i can see this being a problem. In the original, you had camera control mapped to the d-pad when not "locked on" to someone. Now, camera control is nonexistant in all combat situations. The problem wouldnt be such a big deal if the automatic camera worked well, but it doesnt. Grasshopper has opted for a more "cinematic" camera, closer to the ground when locking on to someone. That doesnt work well, making all situations susceptible to poor camera movements. Another thing is the overall feel of a "loose"camera.
And based on the first (or second, if you count the tutorial) boss, these encounters are less creative stlyistically and architecturally. The first boss spammed over powered missiles, that, along with a longer recharge time (i may be wrong about that) makes it very difficult. Then the area itself changes, and annoying red lasers zap all you swords energy.
The game is prettier and a "more polished unpolished" game, but core mechanical changes arent for the best IMO. Anyway, those are my first impressions.
