Title: Shadow Hearts: Covenant
Company: Midway/Aruze/Nautilus
Genre: RPG
Platform: Playstation 2
Release Date: 09/27/2004

Synopsis: In 1915 Europe, the small town of Domremy is under attack by the German military. Even though the army’s might is grand when compared to that of the village, there is one unknown force that stands in their way: Yuri Hyuga. With his legendary power, he single-handedly shuts down all attempts to conquer the village. But a confrontation with a hired exorcist turns his life inside-out once again.

The Highlights
Plot: Terrific.
Graphics: Brings out the true potential of the game.
Sound: Mediocre.
Gameplay: Nice and interactive.

I didn’t know what to make of this game when I first saw it out. When thinking of the quality of the original Shadow Hearts, the idea of playing this wasn’t very appealing. But in contrast with the original, this time it was because of the reviews of friends and magazines that got me to play this game. In the end, I was surprised to feel that I had played a game well worth the time and money put into it.

The plot is captivating and keeps on rolling without the lag the previous installment had. With a whole new cast of comrades for support, Yuri’s adventure is as fun to enjoy as any other competing storyline in the market. It’s got gameplay bonuses to boot! Customized rendering of the judgement ring battle system is a definite plus to provide gamers with different tastes in battle styles. The overall interaction involved in the battles makes it a pleasure to fight while going through dungeons without it feeling like a chore.

Covenant is a graphical triumph when compared to Shadow Hearts, where the texture and animation of the characters makes the scenes easy on the eyes. While the soundtrack wasn’t as good as some of the ones from the first, it’s still good enough to enjoy. The voice-acting is terrific this time around. Everyone has a voice worthy of their character and every scene is acted out to their fullest potential. The facial expressions, an example of the graphical splendor, also match the excellent vocal work.

Nautilus certainly did a great job at bringing the full potential out of Shadow Hearts: Covenant. This game is a great addition to have that can duke it out with some of the best RPG’s on today’s market. As Shadow Hearts becomes a series with the upcoming title Shadow Hearts: From the New World, I only hope that things get better for this thriving series.

The Rating: 9

Reviewed by: Blazer