A lot of the same issues that held the first game back are still here, and this remains a janky experience, but the same QOL improvements and fixes that improved Gothic Classic have also been applied here in this case. The tank-like controls and awkward combat are still present, but so are the refined menus and easier selections. There is also the addition of motion controls as well, but again this is something to experiment with but not really enjoy.
Piranha Bytes improved the game overall when making it originally, compared to the first game, and this is reflected in the port as well. The issue is that while this spiritual sequel to Ultima IX continued to improve its formula, by today’s standards it is very dated and can be challenging for those used to modern RPGs. Those who want that retro experience, however, may find a lot to enjoy from the classic game.
Gothic II still is fun in its own way, but it is important to remember that this came out at a time when RPGs were undergoing rapid changed. Morrowind released around the same time and managed to be revolutionary in how NPCs and the world worked, and that game still holds up well today, especially with the modding scene. Gothic II lacks that same replay value today and I will go even further and say the QOL changes were not enough to make the game hold up today and more needed to be done.
I actually liked the port of Gothic Classic to Switch when I first played it, but playing it longer made me notice more issues and they are all I can notice now when playing Gothic II Complete Classic. I love that the expansion is included here, but a complete experience of an awkwardly controlling aged RPG doesn’t help a game get points when the game is not fun to play on a system where mods are not possible for other needed fixes. I wanted to like this but I can’t and honestly do not want Gothic 3 to get a classic port.
If you like classic RPGs and don’t mind the awkwardness, then go for Gothic II Complete Classic.But if you get frustrated by this kind of game, then look elsewhere.
Disclaimer: A review key was provided
