LogFAQs > #972881307

The gameplay in Ragnarok is better in that you get a new, really cool weapon (2/3 into the game), there's a lot better enemy variety and the permafrost/immolation mechanic is really sweet. The problem is that it's not enough difference to make up the "novelty" being gone as you say as well as other shortcomings and nuisances.

I think beyond all the other issues and ignoring Ironwood, my biggest issue with Ragnarok is that it's strict adherence to puzzle mechanics is extremely offputting in a game that is trying to be so incredibly immersive through graphics, narrative, camera angles, the lots. It's easy to slip into that world, but then suddenly you come across a conglomerate of sulfer-coloured rocks and your brain snaps back and goes "well, gotta find the right camera angle so I can throw the axe at the red pot hidden somewhere!"

i don't remember the first one being that bad about it, though it probably was, but it just feels off-putting. Like the game is giving you whiplash on whether it wants to be a mechanic-focused video game or if it want's to be an experience.