Chapter 2

Started a new normal run on Normal difficulty on original PS2 and CRT

Breezed through Chapter 2 on easy with only 5 continues. I got stuck on combat challenge 8 - that shit is HARD

I LOVE THIS GAME. It had me up late last night grinding through the first level past the first boss. It was really challenging but when I beat any roadblocks in front of me it felt like I had the god hand. So fucking satisfying.

In the morning I played it more - I started a new save on Easy rather than Normal (this game had me watching videos late last night - those made it clear that this game is notoriously hard) and breezed back through chapter one, stopping at the top of chapter two. The combat system is amazing, it gets me in such a pure flow state and its clear that all other elements here were secondary to pure gameplay. I love the variety of juggling enemies to flooring them and stomping their ass. The roulette system adds some fun strategy as well.

The story is pure camp which I find hilarious as an irony poisoned individual. The casino is a silly addition - I like that it seems like each game is rigged towards the player, meaning it's easy to grind for more currency if more purchases are needed/a break is desired. I can't wait to continue - this could easily be in my top games of all time list.

Holy shit I love this game. It's rare that a game hooks me this fast - it's super arcade-y, very challenging but super rewarding. And it's hilarious too