Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

Divinity II: Ego Draconis delivers a robust action-RPG experience that strikes a fine balance between grounded storytelling and high-flying dragon combat. As the Dragon Slayer, you progress through a sprawling world that offers both traditional third-person swordplay and the exhilaration of mid-air firestorms. The seamless transition between human and draconic forms keeps combat fresh and challenging, encouraging players to master each playstyle for different enemy types and scenarios.

(HEY YOU!! We hope you enjoy! We try not to run ads. So basically, this is a very expensive hobby running this site. Please consider joining us for updates, forums, and more. Network w/ us to make some cash or friends while retro gaming, and you can win some free retro games for posting. Okay, carry on 👍)

Character progression is deep without feeling overwhelming. You’ll distribute skill points across three distinct trees—melee, ranged, and spellcasting—while also unlocking new dragon abilities. These upgrades can turn your draconic form into an aerial wrecking ball, or a nimble flier unleashing targeted breath attacks. Side quests and hidden challenges pepper the landscape, rewarding exploration with rare loot and powerful spell tomes that further customize your fighting style.

Puzzle-solving and environmental interaction add another layer to the gameplay loop. Ancient runes, locked doors, and elemental triggers require keen observation and creative spell use. Whether you’re burning through ice barriers, summoning rock pillars to reach hidden ledges, or sneaking into bandit camps under the cloak of invisibility, the game consistently encourages you to think outside the box. Combined with solid enemy AI that demands strategic positioning, Divinity II delivers hours of varied, engaging action.

Graphics

Visually, Divinity II: Ego Draconis stands out for its detailed environments and dynamic lighting. The rolling hills of Rivellon, the twisting corridors of forsaken dungeons, and the glittering spires of high towers are rendered with a painterly richness that pulls you into the world. Textures may occasionally show their age in close-up, but clever use of bloom effects and shadow mapping helps maintain an atmospheric sense of scale and drama.

The draconic transformation is the star of the visual show. Your dragon avatar is sculpted with impressive care: each scale catches the light, and wing animations convey a palpable weight as you soar. Spell and elemental effects—arcane runes, fiery breath, frosty blasts—feature bright, vibrant particle work that feels satisfying in both first-person and cinematic third-person views.

NPC models and animation routines are generally solid, though there are moments of stiff movement in crowded towns. Facial expressions during key cutscenes can sometimes appear muted, but the overall presentation is bolstered by excellent environmental detail. From campfires crackling in moonlit forests to molten lava rivers beneath ancient ruins, the graphical variety helps keep every corner of Rivellon a memorable destination.

Story

At its core, Divinity II: Ego Draconis weaves a classic tale of destiny, power, and sacrifice. You begin as a humble Dragon Slayer, tasked with defending humanity from draconic onslaughts, only to discover hidden ties linking you to the very beasts you hunt. This personal journey—from loyal protector to potential godlike entity—drives much of the emotional weight and moral ambiguity throughout the game.

Supporting characters, from grizzled mercenaries to enigmatic mages, bring a diverse array of motivations and loyalties. Side quests often reveal surprising backstories—bandits regretting their path, villagers torn between superstition and survival, or rival Dragon Slayers with their own agendas. Each interaction adds depth to the main narrative, making every ally and antagonist feel like a fully realized inhabitant of Rivellon.

While some plot beats follow familiar RPG tropes, the writing is consistently engaging, punctuated by witty dialogue and well-scripted encounters. Kirill Pokrovsky’s orchestral soundtrack (included in the Collector’s Edition EP) elevates pivotal moments, ensuring that triumphs and tragedies resonate long after you put down the controller. The pacing balances high-stakes confrontations with quieter moments of exploration and reflection, crafting a story that’s both epic and intimately human.

Overall Experience

Beyond the game itself, the Collector’s Edition transforms your purchase into an immersive journey. Unboxing the package feels like embarking on an adventure: you’ll first discover the resin figurine, a meticulously sculpted 18 cm Dragon Slayer clutching a metal letter opener. It’s both a stunning display piece and a functional desk companion for slicing open letters—an unexpected touch that celebrates the dual nature of the hero within the game.

The included cloth map of Rivellon is a nostalgic nod to classic RPGs. Measuring large enough to showcase every mountain pass, river bend, and hidden ruin, it invites you to plan your expedition as if you were truly charting unknown territory. Tucked inside is a temporary tattoo of the Divinity II: Ego Draconis logo—an amusing, interactive souvenir for fans who want to show their pride in adventures past and present.

Finally, the Soundtrack EP with seven tracks composed by Kirill Pokrovsky deserves special mention. From soaring battle themes to melancholic melodies, these compositions underscore the world’s moods and magnify key moments. Playing them while exploring your own real-world surroundings evokes that same sense of wonder you experienced in-game. Together, the collector’s items and the core game deliver a package that’s as memorable as it is fun to collect and play.

In sum, Divinity II: Ego Draconis (Collector’s Edition) offers an expansive, engaging RPG adventure bolstered by unique physical extras that deepen your connection to Rivellon. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the series or new to the franchise, this edition promises a wealth of content, both digital and tangible, that will keep you immersed for weeks on end.

Retro Replay Score

null/10