Utawarerumono: ZAN 2

Gameplay
New features in the continuation
Coop
Storyline

In 2002, Leaf created the first installment of a series of tactical RPGs with visual novel elements under the title Utawarerumono. In time it received a side-scene in the form of Utawarerumono: ZAN, which is an adaptation of Utawarerumono: Mask of Deception, realized in the form of an action RPG with a slasher-like combat system. Following suit, the Aquaplus studio behind the latter project has prepared its sequel, Utawarerumono : ZAN 2, based on Utawarerumono: Mask of Truth.

Gameplay

The gameplay in Utawarerumono: ZAN 2 is based on the scheme developed for its predecessor. Viewing the action from a third-person perspective (TPP), during the course of the action we take on the role of Haku (Oshtor) and his companions, who, over the course of more than 50 missions, travel the world and complete the tasks set before them, as well as engage in dynamic skirmishes with enemies.

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The game offers access to more than 20 playable characters, from which we compose a team of up to 4 people. We can freely switch between team members. Once again, the battlefield is all about reflexes and combining attacks into combinations, as well as the ability to skillfully use the strengths of individual characters. There is also the ability to choose formations, as well as the Zeal system, which provides access to Chain Attacks and Ultimate Strikes.

New features in the continuation

Working on the described continuation, the developers have taken on board the character development mechanics, in which a new Skill Board system has been implemented. The combat system has also been overhauled.

In addition, the possibility of exploring Oshtor's estate in Ennakamuy has been introduced here. Visits to this place provide us with an opportunity to cut chats with allies and upgrade characters. The mansion itself can be upgraded using special points earned during gameplay.

Coop

Utawarerumono: ZAN 2 allows for single-player gameplay, and also offers the possibility of cooperative play over the Internet. Within the Dream Arena, we hit arenas and face enemies and challenges that are hard to find in the standard mode.

Storyline

The story presented in Utawarerumono: ZAN 2 continues the threads taken up in Utawarerumono: ZAN and follows the storyline from Utawarerumono: Mask of Truth. Haku (who here adopts a mask and the name of a deceased friend, Oshtor) and his allies must ensure the safety of the heiress to the throne of the Yamato Empire, defending the land from enemies and also trying to pry the throne out of the hands of usurpers.

Platforms:

PC Windows February 25, 2026

PlayStation 4 July 22, 2021

PlayStation 5 July 22, 2021

Developer: Aquaplus

Publisher: DMM Games

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Game Series

7GAMES

Utawarerumono Game Series

Ratings

Game Ratings for Utawarerumono: ZAN 2 Video Game.

86%

STEAM Score

All Reviews: Very Positive (99)

STEAM

User Reviews Summary generated by AI

The main pros of the game

Improved Gameplay and Combat: Many users noted that *ZAN 2* is a significant improvement over its predecessor, featuring more complex and engaging combat systems that incorporate traditional mechanics like the "Chain Attack" system while enhancing the overall flow and enjoyment.
Enhanced Visuals and Cutscenes: The transition to fully animated 3D cutscenes has been praised for dramatically elevating the storytelling and emotional impact, making pivotal moments more engaging.
Increased Content: The game includes more content, such as new side stories and fully voiced scenarios, which add depth to character relationships and lore.
Stable Performance: The game runs smoothly at 60 FPS on various systems, including lower-end hardware, and features a solid optimization for PC.
Character Customization: The introduction of a Skill Board system and a base-building mechanic allows for deeper character progression and customization, enhancing the gameplay experience.

The main cons of the game

Abridged Story: The narrative is a heavily condensed version of *Mask of Truth*, which may confuse newcomers who haven't played the earlier titles in the series. Understanding the story requires prior knowledge of the franchise.
Lack of PC-Specific Options: Users expressed disappointment over the limited graphical settings and options available for the PC version, with some noting that it feels like a bare-bones port of the PS4 version.
Repetitive Combat: While the combat is flashy and fun, some users found it can become repetitive over extended play sessions, typical of the Musou genre.
Localization Issues: There were concerns about the quality of the English translation, with some users reporting grammatical errors and inconsistencies in the localization.

The features or elements that are missing from the game according to users

Graphical Options: Players noted the absence of adjustable graphical settings, such as resolution and anti-aliasing, which are expected in PC games.
Model Viewer: Some users missed the model viewer feature that was present in the first *ZAN*, expressing disappointment that it was not included in the sequel.
More Depth in Combat Design: A few reviews mentioned that the combat system lacks strategic depth compared to other games in the genre, suggesting a desire for more complexity and variety in combat mechanics.

Summary

Overall, while *Utawarerumono: ZAN 2* has been well-received for its improvements and engaging gameplay, it has faced criticism for its storytelling approach, technical limitations, and some gameplay mechanics.

Summary generated on: March 23, 2026