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Cute story aside, God Hand's true greatness comes from its rollicking gameplay. It has very odd, innovative controls, but they're responsive and work well. Gene's attacks are completely customizable, drawn from a library of over 100 moves that you find in treasure chests or buy in shops. The combat system is uncommonly deep, with numerous special move properties and an extensive dodging system. Building the perfect combo is an art in itself.
One major reason it can sell the violence so well is the stupendous character animation. Every attack and recoil is smooth and weighty, and the sound effects hold up their end well. Other aspects of the graphics are not as impressive, but that's okay: they're good enough. There are no such qualms about the audio, which combines perfectly cast, B-level voice acting with one of the most eclectic, catchy soundtracks on the PS2.
