Legacy of Kain: Defiance Review

Developer	Crystal Dynamics
Publisher	Eidos
Genre	Action Adventure

From the PSone to the Dreamcast and now on the Xbox, the Legacy of Kain series has always impressed in both story and gameplay. The gritty goth world that surrounds Raziel and friends has inspired legions of fans, despite the fact that the story never seems to resolve. Until now. Legacy of Kain: Defiance is arguably the best game in the series and fans of the series will be glad to know that the storyline presented therein will make the wait worthwhile.

Gameplay - Legacy of Kain: Defiance takes you back to the world of Nosgoth with a backstory worthy of the most hardy of gaming geeks. Again, Raziel and Kain remain the center of the story and this time gamers will take the role of both characters. As usual, the game plays from a third-person perspective. Both Kain and Raziel control nearly identically and each have a variety of different moves and attacks; the most interesting of which are the telekinesis moves. With the power or their minds, Kain and Raziel can lift enemies off the ground (B button), aim (L button) and toss them (release the B button). As long as you have energy in your “TK Meter”, these telekinesis moves will be at your disposal.

Kain and Raziel also have their own distinct moves. For example, Kain can use his Mist Form to pass through doors and gates. Kain can also turn into a swarm of bats and fly across large gaps. Being a vampire, Kain is also vulnerable to water, while Raziel is able to swim. Raziel’s familiar soul devouring technique and gliding ability also makes a return. As you play through the game, each character will gain more powerful moves and techniques, allowing you to progress. The two-character system works surprisingly well and makes for some exciting puzzle elements. Just remember to keep Kain out of the water…all water.

Also returning to the game is Raziel’s ability to switch between the Spectral and Material realms. One of the frustrations with earlier Legacy of Kain games was that the game oftentimes became confusing when switching between the two realms. Unfortunately, this slight nuisance holds remains true with Defiance. You can find yourself wandering aimlessly looking for your next objective, a factor that never fails to frustrate.

The combat system is by far one of the game’s most enjoyable aspects. The button layout is extremely intuitive and easy to pick up. The game uses a lock-on targeting system, which works quite well in some areas and not so well in others. There are occasional moments in which it’s actually possible to get locked onto a character that you cannot even see. Furthermore, the camera sometimes gets in the way, making it difficult to attack enemies in certain situations. However, for the most part these are just minor annoyances. Overall, the control, combat, and gameplay are absolutely superb.

Graphics - Legacy of Kain has a reputation for some of the most [Warning: videogame journalist cliché imminent!] stunning visuals around. Good news: Defiance is by far the best looking of the bunch. As per usual, gothic architecture is the norm here, and it all looks absolutely superb, putting Castlevania to shame with its grandiose cathedrals, spires, tapestries, and other commonplace goth mainstays.

Crystal Dynamics has really outdone themselves in the technical eye-candy department as well. With so many games making incredible strides with lighting effects, the developers of Defiance have still managed to impress, giving the game an incredibly moody and immersive atmosphere. Defiance is definitely a game to showcase to your friends.

Sound - With Legacy of Kain, it’s all about the voice acting. With such a rich and involved storyline, there has never been room to skimp in the voice department and once again, Crystal Dynamics has met the challenge. Everything about the sound in this game is top notch. From the way the enemies shriek in pain to the delivery given by the voice actors, to the eerie chanting soundtrack, it’s clear that the atmosphere is thick in Nosgoth.

Outstanding.

Bottom Line - I’ll come right out and say it: Legacy of Kain: Defiance is my favorite of the series. On the PSone, the game was an acquaintance. On the Dreamcast a one night stand. But Defiance is a full-fledged romance. Finally, the storyline satisfies completely and I will not spoil it for you. But I will say that if you are a fan of the series, this is the one you’ve been waiting for.

There are a few problems with the camera and the lock-on system, but even those issues cannot detract from what is an engrossing and hugely enjoyable experience. Highly recommended.

Review by John Luedtke