D2 is a [[survival horror]] [[video game]] developed by [[Warp (company)|Warp]] and directed by [[Kenji Eno]]. It was released exclusively for the [[Sega Dreamcast]] console, first in Japan in 1999 and subsequently in North America in 2000. It is often considered a spiritual successor to Eno's previous titles, ''[[D (video game)|D]]'' and ''[[Enemy Zero]]''. The game is distinct from the action role-playing game ''[[Diablo II]]'', which is also sometimes abbreviated as D2.
Gameplay
''D2'' combines elements of survival horror, [[adventure game]]s, and [[role-playing game]]s. Players control the protagonist, Laura Parton, primarily from a [[first-person perspective]] during exploration and combat, and occasionally from a [[third-person perspective]] while traversing the overworld. The gameplay loop involves extensive exploration of a vast, snowy wilderness and various interior locations, puzzle-solving, and combat against mutated creatures. A distinctive feature is the ability to hunt local wildlife for food, which is essential for regaining health, and a camera system used to document flora and fauna, providing a sense of discovery and contributing to the game's atmosphere.
Plot
The narrative of ''D2'' commences with Laura Parton, an agent aboard a plane, who is the sole survivor of a mysterious plane crash in a remote, mountainous region of Canada. After regaining consciousness, she is attacked by a bizarre creature and subsequently rescued by a man named Parker. Laura wakes up days later in a remote cabin with Parker and a small group of other survivors, only to discover that the other passengers from her plane have mutated into grotesque monsters. As she explores the expansive, snow-covered landscape and various hidden facilities, Laura uncovers a complex and surreal plot involving a meteor, an enigmatic organization, and the true nature of the mutations plaguing the region. The story delves deeply into themes of identity, memory, the supernatural, and existential dread.
Development and Release
''D2'' was developed by the Japanese studio Warp, led by the eccentric and visionary game designer Kenji Eno. The game underwent several iterations; it was initially planned for the [[3DO Interactive Multiplayer]] and later for the [[Sega Saturn]], but both versions were ultimately cancelled. The project was eventually reimagined and extensively developed for the Sega Dreamcast. Warp handled publishing in Japan, while [[Infogrames]] published the game in North America. ''D2'' is notable for its ambitious scope, unique artistic direction, and impressive graphical detail for its time, pushing the technical capabilities of the Dreamcast console.
Reception
Upon its release, ''D2'' garnered mixed reviews from critics. Reviewers often praised its distinctive and immersive atmosphere, ambitious and thought-provoking storytelling, and the impressive graphical presentation that showcased the Dreamcast's power. However, some critics found the gameplay to be slow-paced, the combat repetitive, and the controls somewhat clunky or unintuitive. Despite the divided critical reception, ''D2'' has developed a dedicated following over the years and is widely regarded as a [[cult classic]] among Dreamcast enthusiasts, appreciated for its bold vision and unique artistic merit within the survival horror genre.