Shenmue II XBox

The game picks up with Ryo arriving in Hong Kong as he continues his quest to avenge his father's killing. It's quickly obvious that, aesthetically, things have improved further; the graphics are at times outstanding, with clearly little expense spared. The game itself follows a similar format to the original, as you explore, interrogate, fight and solve the puzzles needed to progress. Again, you don't have to do everything to get to the end of the game, and there's an awful lot of time needed to get there. It really is business as usual, and it's every bit as good as before.

This is a compelling and cinematic title, and while it doesn't add an awful lot in terms of gameplay to the first game, Shenmue 2 is an excellent, well-written adventure that's well worth taking the time to explore. --Simon Brew