Phantasmagoria 2: A Puzzle of Flesh

The gameplay is characterized by rudimentary point-and-click mechanics that feel outdated, with players often spending long stretches clicking on objects or navigating mundane environments, which disrupts the pacing of the narrative. Puzzles are frequently criticized for their arbitrary logic and lack of depth, leading to frustration rather than engagement. While some players may appreciate the nostalgic FMV style and the haunting atmosphere, many find the gameplay lacking in polish and coherence, making it difficult to recommend for those seeking a more refined experience.

The graphics of the game are often described as dated, yet they contribute to a unique and authentic aesthetic that enhances the narrative's psychological depth. While the full-motion video elements and live sets offer a more seamless experience compared to previous installments, the overall visual quality is considered subpar by modern standards, with limited options for resolution and graphical tweaks. Despite these shortcomings, the game's visuals are appreciated for their nostalgic charm and the way they reflect the experimental nature of its era.

The music in the game is widely praised for its atmospheric and moody qualities, effectively enhancing the tension and suspense throughout the experience. Many reviewers highlight the soundtrack's ability to complement the narrative, with specific mentions of beautiful compositions and standout tracks like the ending song "Rage" by Gary Spinrad. Overall, the music is considered a significant strength, contributing to the game's immersive and unsettling atmosphere.

The humor in the game is a mix of absurdity and dark comedy, with many players finding the cut scenes and character interactions entertainingly ridiculous, despite the underlying themes of horror and mental instability. While the initial comedic elements are engaging, some reviewers noted that the humor can become tiresome as the game progresses, leading to a blend of laughter and frustration, especially towards the end. Overall, the game offers a unique, tongue-in-cheek experience that appeals to those who appreciate a blend of cheesy humor and horror tropes.

The atmosphere of Phantasmagoria 2 is widely praised for its immersive quality, effectively capturing a descent into madness reminiscent of Cronenberg's body horror. Reviewers appreciate the game's moody original soundtrack and the nostalgic charm of its 90s FMV style, enhanced by real environments and competent acting, which collectively draw players into the story.

The game's optimization is lacking, as it does not support modern display resolutions or widescreen monitors, resulting in performance issues on contemporary gaming PCs. Despite this, the performances, particularly that of the main character, are highly praised and may still warrant the investment for fans.

Players find the grinding aspect of the game to be very tedious, particularly in the point-and-click segments, which can detract from the overall experience. While the story is engaging, many recommend watching a playthrough or using a walkthrough to avoid the repetitive gameplay. Overall, the grinding is seen as a significant drawback compared to the previous installment.

The emotional aspect of the game is highlighted through its complex protagonist, Curtis, who grapples with bisexuality, self-doubt, and psychological instability. However, while it attempts to address themes of sexuality, the execution is often criticized as lacking depth and veering into inappropriate territory.

The monetization strategy for this game has been criticized as a cash grab, with users feeling that it exploits nostalgia by offering outdated abandonware on Steam without any modernization. Many believe it is an attempt to profit from players who may already own the original game, reflecting a lack of value in the offering.

Character development in the game is notably strong, exceeding expectations and providing a pleasant surprise for players.