I'll start by saying that Legacy of Kain series, especially the Soul Reaver games are the cornerstones of gaming for me. I played these games when i had just started gaming and my fascination was at peak.

I have finished this game in around 14 hours, i mostly played offline on Steam Deck, that's why time shows less here.

LoK Defiance carries the name forward, i did not get a chance to play this game when it released back in early 2000s, so a remastered version was ideal for me to play. It's an excellent remaster, instead of a fixed camera like in the original game, a new 3rd person camera is introduced which changes the whole way you play this game. It's an essential part of the version.

Graphically the game is a remaster, so the old textures are there but surprisingly detailed and even different in many places. All location, characters look sharp and vivid, locations look awesome, lighting is top notch.

Gameplay is fun as ever, it's a game more than two decades old, so the combat feels a bit dated, but it is fun nonetheless, it serves both Raziel and Kain. Puzzles are clever and fascinating as ever. Playing and using the Soul Reaver in HD is fantastic. It's a nostalgic place to be.

Sound works, the dialogue is clear and crisp, sound effects are amplified, though some smaller effects feel miffed and that's alright.

The strongest part of LoK games is the writing, Amy Hennig is the writer and this work of hers is impeccable. Loved how the story comes full circle and Kain and Raziel's endeavors are awesomely portrayed, their relation is one to behold, and Defiance proves that they're one of the most complex and best written characters in gaming history.

This series deserves a proper, full-fledged next gen sequel, because we are all eager to know where things will lead us because ...

KAIN REFUSED THE SACRIFICE!

One of the greatest stories ever written and performed in the video game industry. The storytelling and voice acting for that time are unmatched to this day. The combat could be better, but it’s not as bad as some people would say.
Overall, a really well-done remaster. I hope to see Dark Prophecy finished and released one day.

"The bitter taste of that terrible illusion... Hope"

Good remaster.