I'm super nostalgic for this game since it's one of my first PS2 games, but it doesn't hold up too well. For one, while the combat is unique in concept, in terms of execution it's fairly braindead as timing your blocks is easy and you never have to worry about post-battle attrition. The platforming and puzzles are extremely simplistic, which is to make up for the fact that the controls are overly stiff and limited. The game has charm and fun characters, but it's ultimately not good.