For those of you thinking of purchasing this game, you must ask yourself one very important question: Have I played the first Digital Devil Saga? Because if you haven't, there isn't too much point in buying this one. Nevertheless, you should go and play the first one because it is one of the premier RPG experiences on the PS2.For those that have, let me just say that from beginning to end, this game does not disappoint. In terms of atmosphere, this game harkens back to SMT: Nocturne in the bleak apocalyptic feel that the first DDS game lacked. Moreover, it brings back features from Nocturne such as dungeons that are cloaked in darkness (requiring you to either stumble through or use Light Balls) as well as areas in dungeons which harm you with every step.
The core gameplay has not changed except for the Mantra Grid which, btw, is no longer a grid, but a very large hexagon. It is much more freeform and, while annoying at first, ends up being a much better design as you work your way through it.
The story which I will not spoil in any manner here, continues directly where the first left off. Because it is the conclusion, there are more cutscenes than the first and those who have played the first game know that this is definitely a good thing.
Lastly, the dungeon hacking aspect is still there for fans. Except each dungeon to last at least 2 hours to complete.
Overall, the only reason not to buy this game is if you have not played/were not a fan of the first game. Little has changed, but that shouldn't stop you from picking this up if you did like DDS1
