Direct sequels are rare in the Tales series, which typically sees new worlds and characters in each instalment. Not so with Xillia 2, which continues last year's story of fractured worlds in conflict.

Set a year on from Tales of Xillia, it sees new character Ludger Kresnik battle incursions from pocket universes, while debating the virtue of wiping out parallel realities. Ludger feels bland, though – a near-silent protagonist; unusual for the series. However, in combat he is a real beast, whose ability to switch weapons and fighting styles instantly keeps enemy encounters snappy and engaging. He's so good, in fact, that you will rarely use other characters.

Returning players will probably appreciate Xillia 2 more than newcomers, but they might also be disappointed by the abundance of reused materials seen on the journey through a world with which they are already familiar.