The late 90s and early 2000s were a golden era for survival horror games, with titles that defined the genre and forever set players’ expectations. Released by Square (now Square Enix) in 1999, Parasite Eve II brought a sequel to the innovative title that mixed horror and RPG elements, leaning even more into suspense and terror. Unlike its predecessor, which was almost a “horror-RPG,” Parasite Eve II dives fully into action and the spine-chilling atmosphere characteristic of survival horror, presenting an environment that dares players to confront mutant horrors and mysteries verging on the supernatural.
A New Chapter in Terror
In Parasite Eve II, we once again follow the protagonist Aya Brea, an ex-police officer and investigator for MIST (Mitochondrial Investigation and Suppression Team). If in the first game Aya faced the threat of mutations caused by Eve, a mitochondrial entity, in this sequel, she finds herself amid a conspiracy involving mutant creatures threatening humanity. The story takes place a few years after the incident in New York, bringing Aya to a completely new, darker, and more isolated environment.
Unlike the first game, where battles were more methodical and reminiscent of a turn-based system, here we have a more direct and fluid approach, coming closer to the survival horror games popularized by Capcom. Parasite Eve II embraces this transition by focusing on action, challenging puzzles, and a bone-chilling atmosphere, with dark hallways and desolate areas that make players feel the danger at every step.
The Dark, Threatening Atmosphere of Dryfield and Neo Ark
The setting of Parasite Eve II is one of the game’s most memorable aspects. Most of the action takes place in Dryfield, a small, semi-abandoned fictional town in the middle of the California desert. The setting adds to a constant feeling of isolation, making each encounter with mutant creatures even more tense and desperate. With no one to help, players are forced to explore abandoned motels, sewers, narrow corridors, and other seemingly deserted places that hide mortal dangers.
Later, the plot leads Aya to Neo Ark, an underground lab filled with mysteries and dark experiments that recall the biotech and nearly scientific nature of the horrors she faces. Each area is meticulously designed to keep the tension high, whether through sparse lighting, strange sounds echoing off the walls, or the absolute silence that precedes a new creature’s attack.
The soundtrack, composed by Naoshi Mizuta, stands out for creating an atmosphere of discomfort. The eerie, minimalist tones oscillate between suspense and emptiness, enhancing the feeling that something evil is lurking. Sound effects are also well-used, immersing players in a psychologically horrific experience.
Game Mechanics and Combat System
Parasite Eve II evolved the combat system of its predecessor, moving away from the RPG structure and bringing gameplay closer to a classic survival horror. The third-person perspective, similar to other games of the time like Resident Evil, offers players a limited view of the scenery, amplifying suspense and unpredictability in confrontations.
Aya has access to a variety of weapons, including pistols, shotguns, and special arms, each with its advantages and disadvantages, which can be upgraded for better efficiency. Resource management is critical – ammo is scarce, and players must carefully plan their actions to avoid being caught off guard.
In addition to weapons, Aya also has mitochondrial powers that give the game a unique touch. Abilities like healing, psychic explosions, and elemental attacks make combat more strategic, as each power consumes a specific type of resource, limiting their use. This encourages players to be even more cautious in encounters and to choose wisely when and how to use their powers.
A Plot Full of Mysteries and Conspiracies
The story of Parasite Eve II is dense and filled with twists. With themes involving genetic mutations, biotechnology, and ethical questions, the game explores the dangers of genetic experiments gone out of control. The narrative follows an intriguing rhythm, with dialogues and cinematic scenes that enrich the storyline.
Additionally, Parasite Eve II expands the universe of the first game, revealing more about MIST and Aya Brea herself. Although the focus is more on suspense and survival, there are moments of introspection that deepen the player’s connection to the protagonist, revealing the emotional scars she carries from the traumatic events she previously experienced.
Why Play Parasite Eve II Even Today?
Even two decades after its release, Parasite Eve II remains relevant for several reasons:
- Unique and Well-Executed Setting: The game’s atmosphere, especially in areas like Dryfield and Neo Ark, still sets an exemplary standard for survival horror. The sense of isolation and the building of suspense throughout the game are as effective today as they were when the game launched.
- Combat and Mitochondrial Powers: The combat system, blending action and special powers, offers challenging and unique gameplay that stands out in the survival horror genre. The combination of weapons and abilities creates a strategy that many games still strive to replicate.
- Engaging Story and Relevant Themes: Parasite Eve II’s plot remains interesting, addressing bioethics and genetic technology topics that are even more current and debated. The story, mixed with horror and science fiction, provides a rich and memorable experience.
- Nostalgia and Gaming History: For genre fans, Parasite Eve II represents one of the classics that helped define horror games. Playing it is almost a time travel experience, an opportunity to understand how survival horror evolved and see the roots of many modern mechanics and approaches.
Parasite Eve II is a timeless gem that deserves to be rediscovered. With carefully crafted settings, strategic combat, and a dense, intriguing narrative, it is the kind of game that captivates from beginning to end. For those who enjoy venturing into survival horror that doesn’t follow conventional formulas, Parasite Eve II is an intense, unique experience that remains relevant and terrifying, even after all this time.
