Gunvolt Chronicles: Luminous Avenger iX 2

59%
Game Brain Score Based on 359 reviews
  • story
  • gameplay
  • music
Gunvolt Chronicles: Luminous Avenger iX 2 Game Cover
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"Gunvolt Chronicles: Luminous Avenger iX 2" is a fast-paced action game that continues the story of the cult-favorite series. As the protagonist, Luminous Avenger iX, players will battle against rival factions and powerful bosses using a variety of skills and abilities. The game features vibrant anime-style graphics and intense, challenging gameplay, with options for both new and returning players.

  • Nintendo Switch
  • PC
  • Play​station 4
  • Play​station 5
  • Steam Deck
  • Windows
  • Xbox One
  • Xbox Series X|S
  • Play​Station
  • Xbox
Genres & TagsPlay Modes

Reviews

59%
Audience ScoreBased on 359 reviews
story38 positive mentions
replayability3 negative mentions
  • Action-packed gameplay that's streamlined, fast-paced, and a heck of a lot of fun.
  • Awesome graphics, voice work, and music.
  • Achieving high scores is super-rewarding.
  • Copen's playstyle has been significantly nerfed, limiting his mobility and making gameplay feel less fluid.
  • The story feels disconnected and lacks depth compared to previous entries in the series.
  • The true ending is locked behind hard mode, which is punishing and may deter casual players.
  • story272 mentions

    The story in this game has received mixed reviews, with many players finding it lacking depth and coherence, often describing it as filler or disconnected from the overarching plot of the series. Key story elements are locked behind hard mode, which has frustrated those who prefer a more accessible narrative experience. While some appreciate the character moments and world-building, the overall consensus is that the story is underwhelming compared to previous installments, making it less appealing for fans who prioritize narrative.

    • “Ix2 follows the events of the previous game, but is disconnected enough that its story can be enjoyed as a standalone experience if you haven't played the first game.”
    • “The story this time is also pretty nonexistent, there's tons of small details that Inti honestly excel at, ranging from subtle character moments that showcase a lot of the bosses' personalities to small details in motion like Copen's armor changing when you're airborne or grounded.”
    • “The story was probably on the weaker side compared to the other games honestly, felt pretty disconnected from the series plot as a whole, and a little predictable but still enjoyable nonetheless.”
    • “I can't recommend this one, it's shorter than the other Gunvolt games (which are already really short games). The gameplay is clunky and a step back from Copen's gameplay in IX 1 and Gunvolt 2. The story is filler and is one step from being a 'it's all a dream' story, and I'm almost sure there is more content in the DLC than in the game itself.”
    • “The story is literally an anime filler, so don't complain why I don't put it in spoiler.”
    • “The story is non-existent. There just feels like there is no substance in the story and everything just gets thrown out there and mixed up expecting for something great to come out of it, but it just ended up a huge mess.”
  • gameplay215 mentions

    The gameplay in "Luminous Avenger IX2" has received mixed reviews, with many players noting significant changes to Copen's mechanics that diverge from previous titles. While some appreciate the new melee-focused combat and the introduction of the razor wheel, others feel that the gameplay is clunky and a downgrade, particularly due to the limitations on air dashing and the need to accumulate kudos to unlock more enjoyable mechanics. Overall, the game offers a different experience that may appeal to some fans but frustrate others who preferred the fluidity of earlier installments.

    • “Gameplay is slightly different from the rest of the series, but I personally really like the changes they made.”
    • “The first half of most stages is well designed around that melee gameplay, being more linear with enemies paced nicely to allow you to get quick razor bonuses by quickly dashing around and meleeing them.”
    • “Yes, the gameplay change is questionable, but when judged by its own merits, it still is really fun with a lot of nuance and a high skill ceiling just like any other Inti game, with overdrive actually having a role to play other than glowing lights.”
    • “I can't recommend this one; it's shorter than the other Gunvolt games (which are already really short games). The gameplay is clunky and a step back from Copen's gameplay in IX1 and Gunvolt 2. The story is filler and is one step from being a 'it's all a dream' story, and I'm almost sure there is more content in the DLC than in the game itself.”
    • “Gameplay and story are massively downgraded for the sake of 'newness'.”
    • “But gameplay-wise, I just think it's a huge downgrade and just not fun.”
  • music85 mentions

    The music in the game has received mixed reviews, with many praising its catchiness and diversity, while some feel it doesn't quite match the quality of previous titles. Notable tracks, such as Ypsilon's battle theme, are highlighted as standout pieces, but there are criticisms regarding the memorability of certain songs, particularly those associated with the character Lola. Overall, while the soundtrack is generally considered enjoyable, it may not reach the heights of earlier installments in the series.

    • “The presentation is so awesome, gameplay is still incredibly fun, and the OST is amazing.”
    • “The soundtrack is pretty diverse, as usual, and I think even picky choosers will find a favorite of theirs or two.”
    • “Music as usual is pretty great and I'd argue this game also has some of the best general level and boss music out of the series thus far.”
    • “Though I must say, Lola's songs aren't quite as likable as in IX1, and this doesn't seem to be a sentiment I express alone, as I've heard similar opinions. I imagine it has to do with the songs not having their usual 150 BPM, like all the other games.”
    • “The music is the same; the title screen itself is the same except for the 2 on the logo, of course.”
    • “In fact, it recycled 1 or 2 more songs that were in the first game for the dialogue scenes.”
  • graphics19 mentions

    The graphics of the game have received widespread praise for their stunning aesthetics and attention to detail, showcasing a significant improvement over previous titles. The pixel art and visual design are noted for their expressiveness and resemblance to the ZX series, with many reviewers highlighting the clean and vibrant visuals that enhance the overall experience. Overall, the graphics are considered one of the standout features, contributing positively to the game's appeal.

    • “The visuals of ix2 are also just genuinely amazing, great aesthetics and visuals all round.”
    • “Visuals and sprites have a striking resemblance with the ZX series; they're almost like their enhanced versions, which shows that Inti Creates still has what it takes to make a proper ZX game.”
    • “Visuals and sprites have a striking resemblance to the ZX series; they're almost like their enhanced versions, which shows that Inti Creates still has what it takes to make a proper ZX game.”
    • “Briefly talking about the graphics, there definitely seemed to be a lot of attention to detail with things interacting with surfaces.”
    • “Aside from that, the game doesn't look too different from other Inti outings; the graphics are clean and expressive where it counts.”
  • emotional14 mentions

    The emotional impact of the game is largely criticized, with attempts at heartfelt moments, particularly involving the character Null, failing to resonate with players due to a lack of emotional investment and poorly executed narrative elements. The gameplay changes, such as nerfed abilities and altered mechanics, further detract from the overall experience, leaving players feeling disconnected from the story and characters.

    • “They attempt to have a sad heartfelt moment with one of the new characters in this game, and it falls flat.”
    • “Then there is Null who sacrifices themselves because they found their purpose, and I imagine it was supposed to make you feel emotional, but it just didn't for me.”
    • “I get that Copen and Kohaku were traveling with Null from the very beginning, but with those time skips, there was no emotional investment from me to Null, making the self-sacrifice scene feel obnoxious.”
  • replayability14 mentions

    Replayability in the game is a mixed bag; while dedicated players can find enjoyment in mastering stages and achieving high ranks, casual players may find the game too short, completing it in just a few hours. The absence of special stages, which enhanced replay value in previous titles, is noted as a drawback, leading to a less engaging experience overall. Despite these issues, the challenging boss fights and the desire to improve scores provide some incentive for replaying the game.

    • “Meanwhile on IX1, you had special stages that were more linear but with extra fun stage layouts to bounce around compared to the story mode, on top of EX bosses making it S+ rank in terms of replayability.”
    • “All the stages are very replayable, making me want to finish all of them in X rank or the fastest time. The boss fights are also very fun, dodging Dacite's backdraft knuckle, learning to dodge all of Ace's attacks, and the fight with Ypsilon is challenging but very fun and replayable.”
    • “Heck, $25 is asking far too much for a game that's heavily reliant on replay value to justify the price tag, and the entire Gunvolt series has even less playtime than a single Blaster Master Zero game.”
    • “As someone who’s a diehard Gunvolt fan and a score runner, I got my fill around 80% with 90 hours spent in the game, but casual players will clear the game in 3-4 hours and probably won’t go for replayability, which is the defining point of the games.”
    • “Also, there is less replayability than in IX1 because of the lack of special stages.”
  • grinding6 mentions

    Players criticize the grinding aspect of the game for severely diminishing the enjoyment of gameplay, particularly due to the tedious nature of hard mode, which locks the true ending behind excessive farming. The final boss's challenging mechanics, combined with a lack of healing options, make the grinding feel unfair and frustrating, detracting from the overall experience.

    • “They absolutely cripple Copen's previously super fun gameplay; the story is meaningless nonsense, and the true ending is locked behind a tedious and uninteresting hard mode.”
    • “The worst part of it all is the final boss's second phase of hard mode, where there are two parts: destroying the hologram and then destroying the actual body, with no healing at all, making the whole grinding for extra life a chore.”
    • “It's unfair for those of us who keep farming for 6 hours just to use upgrades freely in this mode.”
  • stability6 mentions

    The game is described as a "buggy mess," indicating significant stability issues, despite running well and having fluid controls. This contradiction suggests that while performance may be smooth, the presence of numerous bugs detracts from the overall experience.

    • “It runs great, and the controls are still fluid and precise.”
    • “When I say this game is a buggy mess, I truly mean it.”
    • “Also, it's a buggy mess.”
  • humor4 mentions

    The humor in the game is generally well-received, with characters being described as funny and enjoyable, contributing to the overall fun experience. However, some moments, like a character's unexpected death, are noted as feeling random, and there are hints of darker humor that add an interesting twist. Overall, while the humor is a redeeming quality, it may not be enough to overshadow the game's repetitive formula and ease.

    • “This is also among smaller stuff that's generally nice with one pretty funny yet dark secret among them.”
    • “The characters in this game are still funny and enjoyable.”
  • atmosphere2 mentions

    Players appreciate the opportunity to slow down and fully immerse themselves in the game's environment and atmosphere, especially when gameplay can feel overly fast-paced and effortless. This aspect enhances their overall experience by allowing them to appreciate the details and ambiance of the game world.

    • “I appreciate the slight slowdown to soak in the environment and atmosphere.”
  • monetization2 mentions

    The monetization strategy is heavily criticized for relying on paid advertisements that feel intrusive, as they primarily consist of short boss fights that reward players with overpowered weapons, undermining the game's balance.

    • “The monetization feels excessive, with every aspect of the game pushing for additional purchases.”
    • “It seems like the game is designed around making money rather than providing a fun experience.”
    • “The constant ads and paywalls really detract from the overall enjoyment of the game.”
  • character development2 mentions

    While users praise the character designs as amazing, there is no specific feedback regarding the depth or progression of character development within the game. The focus appears to be primarily on the visual appeal rather than the narrative or emotional growth of the characters.

Positive mentions (%)Positive
Neutral mentions (%)Neutral
Negative mentions (%)Negative

Critic Reviews

86% average critic score

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