Info about Fuga: Melodies of Steel 2:

Official game description:
A year has passed since the events of Fuga: Melodies of Steel. The war was fought and won. Life went on.  
That is, until the children are summoned to Pharaoh to aid with the investigation of the recovered Taranis. During their survey, the Taranis suddenly goes haywire and sets out on a deadly rampage, trapping and absconding with a number of their party. The remaining children and Malt board their erstwhile enemy—the dread tank Tarascus—to chase after the Taranis and save their friends.  
Revamped tactical battle system!  
New additions to the battle system based on player feedback such as the reworked Soul Cannon and newly implemented Managarm allows for cutting-edge tactical gameplay!  
Fight battles how you see fit!  
Plot your path forward on the branching routes of the battlefield. The new airship support system allows for even more options!  
Make every decision count!  
The choices you make affect the Judgment Gauges, ultimately changing how events play out. You are the author of your own story.  
The weight of despair, rage, and loss will shake you to your core in Fuga: Melodies of Steel 2—the RPG of hard choices and tough decisions!  
\*It's not necessary to play Fuga: Melodies of Steel to enjoy Fuga: Melodies of Steel 2.

Release date: 10 May, 2023

Categories: RPG, Turn-based Combat, Tactical Combat, Character Management, Resource Management, Choice-based Narrative, Multiple Endings, Single-player Story


- Hardware Profile: No data
Feature extractions:
- Community Price: No data
- Playtime Metrics: No data
- Time-to-fun: No data
- Player Archetypes: No data


Below are summaries of things people say about the game per category.
Each point is assigned a weight that represents how often it is mentioned across all reviews.
What players like:
- Excellent Sequel, Major Improvements (weight 0.99): Players consistently praise the game as a superior sequel, building upon the original's strengths with significant improvements across all aspects. This includes refined gameplay mechanics, enhanced quality-of-life features, and a more polished overall experience, making it a comprehensive upgrade.
- Captivating Story & Characters (weight 0.52): The game's narrative is highly engaging, featuring well-developed characters and an emotionally impactful story. Players appreciate the depth, twists, and overall progression of the plot, which keeps them invested and eager for the outcome.
- Beautiful Art Style & Visuals (weight 0.25): The game's art style is widely praised for its beauty, charm, and meticulous detail. Players appreciate the captivating visuals, character designs, and overall aesthetic, which contribute to a visually immersive world.
- Outstanding Soundtrack (weight 0.16): The game's soundtrack is consistently highlighted as outstanding, with beautiful compositions that perfectly complement the atmosphere and enhance emotional moments. The music significantly contributes to the overall immersive experience.
- Improved Soul Cannon Mechanic (weight 0.15): The 'Soul Cannon' mechanic has been significantly improved, adding a new layer of tension and strategic depth to combat. Its enhanced implementation makes it a more ominous and impactful threat, elevating the stakes in battles.
- Challenging & Unique Bosses (weight 0.1): Boss battles are noted for their increased difficulty and unique mechanics, providing a challenging yet fair experience. Each boss requires distinct strategies, making these encounters a true test of player skill and preparation.
- Strategic & Blended Gameplay (weight 0.07): The gameplay successfully blends turn-based tactics with team management and visual novel elements, offering a strategic and engaging experience. It appeals to fans of strategy games and classic RPGs.
- Appealing 'Furry' Characters (weight 0.05): The game's 'furry' character designs are well-received, even by those initially hesitant about the aesthetic. Many players found themselves developing affection for the characters, indicating successful design and appeal within this niche.

Common complaints:
- Easy & Repetitive Combat (weight 0.27): Many players found the game's difficulty to be too low, with only a few challenging boss fights. This led to a lack of engagement and made the combat feel monotonous and repetitive, especially with limited enemy variety and basic attack methods.
- Lack of Innovation (weight 0.21): A significant number of players felt the game was too similar to its predecessor, reusing many assets, systems, and even plot points. This led to a sense of repetitiveness and a lack of innovation, making the sequel feel like a rehash rather than a new experience.
- Predictable & Shallow Story (weight 0.17): The story received mixed feedback, often described as predictable, average, and sometimes cheesy. Players noted issues with character reactions, inconsistent pacing, and a lack of deep emotional impact or character development, with some plot points feeling forced or unoriginal.
- Boring Dungeon Exploration (weight 0.07): Exploration of dungeons and temples was cited as a weak point, often described as boring, annoying, and lacking interesting mechanics. The overall gameplay was perceived as shallow and monotonous, particularly in boss battles with repetitive minion-spawning cycles.
- Limited Voice Acting (weight 0.05): Players expressed disappointment over the lack of full voice acting, with daily dialogue only using tone sounds. There was also a desire for more language options, specifically English dubs, to broaden the game's appeal.
- Confusing Game Recap (weight 0.05): The in-game recap for new players was found to be confusing and ineffective. Reviewers felt it did not adequately summarize the events of the first game, potentially deterring newcomers or forcing them to play the original.
- Overpriced Game (weight 0.03): Several players felt that the game's price was too high, considering the content and perceived lack of innovation. This suggests a concern about value for money.
- Missing Language Support (weight 0.03): The absence of Chinese and Korean language support was noted as a significant barrier. This limitation is seen as detrimental to the game's potential reach and audience expansion in key markets.
- Tedious Depressed Status (weight 0.03): A specific gameplay mechanic involving 'depressed status' for allies was found to be tedious. This status prevents bond events, making it wasteful to spend AP on conversations and hindering the use of powerful special moves.

Gameplay feedback:
- Soul Cannon Redesigned (weight 0.29): The Soul Cannon mechanic is significantly altered, becoming a forced event when the tank's HP drops below a certain threshold, especially in boss fights. Unlike the first game, the choice of which character to sacrifice is now random and automated, adding a new layer of tension and consequence. However, a new 'Managarm' option provides a temporary incapacitation instead of permanent death.
- Familiar Core Gameplay (weight 0.27): The core gameplay mechanics, including turn-based combat and the overall loop, remain largely consistent with the first game. While some minor refinements and new elements are introduced, the fundamental experience is familiar to returning players.
- Tactical Tank Combat Core (weight 0.2): The game centers on tactical, turn-based combat involving a giant tank piloted by children. Players manage three active characters and three support characters, all sharing the tank's HP and SP. Combat involves exploiting enemy weaknesses with specific weapon types and strategically swapping characters.
- New Morality System (weight 0.16): A new Empathy/Resolution morality system is introduced, primarily affecting Malt, the protagonist. Dialogue choices influence Malt's disposition, unlocking unique passive 'Leader Skills' and potentially leading to different story outcomes and endings.
- Moderate Length & Difficulty (weight 0.15): The game offers a moderate completion time (12-22 hours) with multiple endings based on player choices. Resource and time management are crucial for progression, and the overall difficulty is perceived as slightly higher than the first game, though still manageable.
- Managarm Cannon Introduced (weight 0.08): The Managarm cannon is a new powerful attack that can be used in any battle. While it deals massive damage and can guarantee a win, its use comes at the cost of losing all experience for that battle and temporarily incapacitating the chosen character, but unlike the Soul Cannon, it does not result in permanent death.
- AP-Based Intermission Management (weight 0.08): Intermission activities involve spending limited AP (20 per rest) on various tasks. These include raising character affinity, cooking, farming, upgrading weapons, sleeping for XP boosts, and interacting with depressed characters, all crucial for managing resources and character morale.
- Airship Travel Added (weight 0.07): A new airship mode allows players to access mid-chapter shops, fast travel to previously explored routes, drop supplies, or bomb enemy nodes. This adds strategic flexibility and convenience to route navigation.
- Refined Character Skills (weight 0.06): Characters now have fewer skills, but these skills can be leveled up to improve their effects. Each character has a specific weapon type and unique abilities, with SP consumption for skills being a key resource management challenge.
- Weapon Type Weaknesses (weight 0.06): Enemies have weaknesses corresponding to three weapon colors (blue, yellow, red). Exploiting these weaknesses with the correct weapon type is essential for delaying enemy turns and gaining a tactical advantage in combat.
- New Co-op Skills (weight 0.05): Co-op skills are a new addition, becoming available when two bonded characters are in the same turret and their bond value is 2 or higher. These powerful, full-screen attacks do not consume SP and become stronger with higher bond levels.
- Diverse Character Roster (weight 0.04): The game features a diverse cast of characters with varied skills, roles, and weapons. Players can dynamically rotate characters in and out of active combat slots, allowing for flexible team composition.
- Mixed Enemy Variety (weight 0.03): Player feedback is mixed regarding enemy variety, with some noting a wider range of enemy types while others feel there are too few new enemies.

Performance notes:
- Stable and optimized performance (weight 0.02): Players reported a smooth experience with no crashes, bugs, or performance issues, indicating a stable and well-optimized game.
- Resolution setting bug (weight 0.02): Some users experienced issues with the resolution setting in the options menu, preventing them from selecting their desired display resolution. This suggests a minor bug in the display settings interface.

Recommendations:
- Play First Game First (weight 0.42): Players strongly advise playing the first game in the series before this sequel to fully understand the story, characters, and appreciate mechanical improvements. It's considered essential for narrative context and a richer experience.
- Highly Recommended Game (weight 0.26): The game is highly recommended by players, who feel it offers excellent value for its cost and time investment. Many consider it a strong contender for 'Game of the Year' and express a desire to replay it.
- Recommended for Furry Fans (weight 0.15): The game is particularly recommended for fans of 'furry' characters and those who enjoy turn-based JRPGs with a unique aesthetic. It's highlighted as a must-buy for this specific niche, despite some perceived flaws.
- Support the Developers (weight 0.08): Players encourage supporting the developer, CyberConnect2, to ensure the continuation of the series and the development of a full trilogy. They appreciate the studio's unique approach to game development.
- Good for Solatorobo Fans (weight 0.03): The game is recommended for players of 'Solatorobo' due to shared lore and name drops, suggesting a connection or similar appeal between the two titles.
- Wait for Sale (weight 0.01): Some players suggest waiting for a significant sale before purchasing the game at full price, implying that the current price might be a barrier for some.
- Demo Version Available (weight 0.01): Players are reminded that a demo version is available, suggesting it's a good way to test the game before committing to a purchase.
- Spanish Translation Available (weight 0.01): The availability of a Spanish translation is highlighted as a positive point, potentially encouraging more players to purchase and support the game.

Other player notes:
- Direct, Darker Sequel (weight 0.2): This game is a direct and darker sequel to the first installment, continuing its story and themes. It builds upon the predecessor's foundation, offering an enhanced experience while maintaining core similarities.
- Prominent Furry Aesthetic (weight 0.13): The game features a strong 'furry' aesthetic with diverse animal-humanoid characters, which is a significant draw for many players. This design choice is consistent with the developer's previous works and appeals to both dedicated fans and general audiences.
- Strong Replayability & Endings (weight 0.11): The game offers significant replayability, with multiple endings and paths that encourage multiple playthroughs. Completing the true or perfect ending often requires more than one run, with average completion times ranging from 20 to 29 hours.
- Part of Niche Connected Universe (weight 0.08): The game is part of a larger, niche universe established by previous titles like 'Tail Concerto' and 'Solatorobo'. It expands on this unique world, set centuries before other games, appealing to long-time fans of the developer's interconnected series.
- Underrated & Highly Praised (weight 0.07): Despite a perceived lack of marketing, the game has garnered a 'Very Positive' reception on Steam, with players expressing strong appreciation and even calling it inspiring. Many feel it deserves wider recognition.
- High Anticipation for Trilogy Conclusion (weight 0.07): Players are highly anticipating the third installment of the series, which is planned as a trilogy. There is strong excitement to see how the story concludes and what new elements will be introduced.
- Soul Cannon Moral Dilemma (weight 0.07): The game features a 'Soul Cannon' mechanic, a moral dilemma where sacrificing a child grants immense power. However, players note that it's often avoidable, as boss fights can be overcome without resorting to it, and the game allows for a canon ending where all children survive.
- Taranis Goes Rogue (weight 0.07): A key plot point involves the tank Taranis suddenly going berserk, trapping and mind-controlling children. This forces the protagonist group to pursue it using the antagonist's tank from the first game, the Tarascus.
- RPG & Graphic Novel Blend (weight 0.04): The game effectively blends RPG elements with a graphic novel style, focusing heavily on storytelling through text and plot. Its narrative and dialogue are generally straightforward, making it accessible.
- PC Port Issues; Controller Recommended (weight 0.04): The PC version is noted as a straightforward console port, with the mouse being largely ineffective. Players are strongly advised to use a controller for the optimal experience on PC.
- Localization & Pricing Details (weight 0.03): The game supports multiple languages, including Chinese, with an official Chinese localization expected in November. Pricing details for the game and its deluxe DLC in China have also been noted.
- Detailed 3D Models (weight 0.03): The game features well-crafted 3D models, particularly noticeable in the chibi forms during enhancements and bonding sequences. Attention to detail is evident in clothing and headwear.
- Mixed Dialogue Quality (weight 0.02): The writing for dialogues and the story is generally good, though some sentences may feel awkward due to translation. Character reactions are predictable, and some dialogue can be perceived as cheesy, emphasizing themes like 'the power of friendship'.
- Developer's Other Works (weight 0.02): The developer, CyberConnect2, is recognized for its quality works like the .hack series. There's a mention of other unreleased titles from their 'Revenge Trilogy' announced in 2018, alongside Fuga.

Emotions:
- Satisfaction (weight 0.33): Players felt satisfied due to the game's overall high quality, significant improvements over its predecessor, and a fulfilling story with strong character development. Specific elements like enhanced gameplay, new mechanics (e.g., Soul Cannon), and quality-of-life changes contributed to a worthwhile and enjoyable experience.
- Excitement (weight 0.13): Excitement stemmed from captivating story twists, improved mechanics, and new features that kept the experience fresh and engaging. A strong anticipation for future installments, particularly the third game in the series, was a major driver of this emotion.
- Appreciation (weight 0.11): Appreciation was primarily directed towards the developers for their dedication, consistency, and passion in crafting a unique and high-quality game. Players valued the emotional depth of the story, well-designed characters, and thoughtful improvements, especially for long-time fans.
- Disappointment (weight 0.08): Disappointment arose from a perceived lack of innovation, recurring issues from the first game that remained unaddressed, and a general feeling of mediocrity in certain gameplay aspects. Specific complaints included repetitive enemies, dragged-out battles, and a low difficulty level.
- Frustration (weight 0.07): Frustration was caused by gameplay balancing issues, such as high miss chances and restrictive SP systems, leading to repetitive combat. Other sources included poor UI/port issues, repetitive scenarios, and specific mechanics like the forced Soul Cannon use.
- Joy (weight 0.04): Joy was experienced due to the game's overall quality, the return of beloved characters, and engaging character interactions. The emotional payoff from the story and the overall positive gaming experience contributed significantly to this feeling.
- Enjoyment (weight 0.04): Players enjoyed the game due to its engaging new plot, fun gameplay mechanics, and overall refined experience. The challenging yet fair difficulty and captivating story were also key contributors to this positive emotion.
- Engagement (weight 0.04): Engagement was driven by the game's deep tactical gameplay, resource management, and emotionally impactful choices that had significant consequences. The gripping story and intense boss battles further drew players into the experience.
- Sadness (weight 0.02): Sadness was a direct result of the game's emotional story events and the fates of its characters, particularly Malt's emotional arc. The increased melancholy and depressive themes within the narrative contributed to this feeling.
- Anticipation (weight 0.02): Anticipation was primarily focused on the future of the series, with players eagerly looking forward to the third installment. The game's climax also contributed to this forward-looking excitement.
- Admiration (weight 0.01): Admiration was expressed for the game's aesthetics, music, and overall quality improvements. The well-crafted characters, breathtaking visuals, and unforgettable soundtrack were specific points of praise.
- Boredom (weight 0.01): Boredom stemmed from monotonous and repetitive combat, including boss battles, and the need for repetitive replays to achieve certain goals. Predictable story elements also contributed to this feeling.
- Mixed_feelings (weight 0.01): Mixed feelings arose from inconsistencies in story cohesion, unpredictable difficulty spikes, and gameplay that felt too basic or overly similar to the first game, leading to a less clear-cut positive or negative experience.
- Support (weight 0.01): Players expressed support for the game and its developers, CyberConnect2, hoping for their continued success and the continuation of the series or the development of new titles.
- Dread (weight 0.01): Dread was specifically caused by the forced use of the Soul Cannon mechanic, which often involved character sacrifice, creating a sense of unease and difficult choices for players.
- Emotional engagement (weight 0.01): Emotional engagement was driven by the game's compelling story and well-developed characters, which resonated deeply with players and evoked strong emotional responses.
- Amusement (weight 0.01): Amusement was derived from the game's humorous tone and specific instances like a 'bad recap' or nerfed strategies, providing lighthearted moments for players.
- Love (weight 0.01): Love for the game was expressed through deep affection for its world, characters, and art style, indicating a strong positive emotional connection.
- Attachment (weight 0): Attachment was formed due to the engaging characters, leading players to feel a strong personal connection and investment in their fates.
- Protectiveness (weight 0): Protectiveness was felt towards the game's characters, indicating a strong emotional bond and a desire to see them safe or well.}