Set in 2000, three years after the original game, Parasite Eve II follows FBI agent Aya Brea as she investigates a resurgence of Neo-Mitochondrial Creatures (NMCs) in Los Angeles. The outbreak leads her to the Akropolis Tower, where she uncovers a conspiracy involving genetically engineered beings and a plan to replace humanity as the dominant species. Aya’s journey takes her across various locations, including the desert town of Dryfield, Nevada, as she battles NMCs and confronts the mastermind behind the outbreak.
Parasite Eve II was developed and published by Square (now Square Enix) for the PlayStation. The game was directed and written by Kenichi Iwao, known for his work on the original Resident Evil. The game features a musical score composed by Naoshi Mizuta, who was given creative freedom to craft an ambient soundtrack that complements the game’s atmosphere. The soundtrack was released in Japan in December 1999 and in North America in September 2000.
Gameplay
Departing from its predecessor’s RPG elements, Parasite Eve II adopts a more traditional survival horror approach. The game features real-time combat, fixed camera angles, and tank controls, reminiscent of the Resident Evil series. Players control Aya as she navigates pre-rendered environments, solving puzzles and battling NMCs. The game introduces a customizable inventory system, allowing players to modify weapons and armor. A notable feature is the absence of random encounters; enemies are visible in the environment, enabling players to avoid or confront them strategically.
Importance in Survival Horror
Parasite Eve II stands out in the survival horror genre by blending traditional elements with action-RPG mechanics. Its real-time combat system and emphasis on exploration and puzzle-solving set it apart from contemporaries. The game’s atmospheric storytelling and character development contribute to its lasting impact on the genre.
Reception vs Historical Context
Upon release, Parasite Eve II received generally favorable reviews, with critics praising its improved gameplay mechanics and atmospheric design. However, some fans of the original game expressed disappointment over the shift from RPG elements to a more action-oriented approach. Despite this, the game has garnered a dedicated fanbase and is considered a cult classic in the survival horror genre.
Availability & Collectibility
Parasite Eve II was originally released for the PlayStation in 1999 and 2000, with editions in Japan, North America, and Europe. The game has been re-released on various platforms over the years, including digital storefronts. Physical copies, especially the Japanese Square Millennium Collection edition, are highly collectible and can command high prices among collectors.
Official Trailer