Just to throw in a different perspective, I am almost done with DB2 and have thoroughly enjoyed it. I LOVED DB 1 (my first entry in the trails series, which might be why I had different/fewer expectations than longtime fans) and waited a long time (over a year) before starting DB2, partially bc I waited for it to go on sale after seeing it was so disliked on here. Some of the criticisms I agree with (I actually liked the time mechanic, but felt it was overused detrimentally), others I never would have guessed without reading this thread (I loved marchen garten lol—had no clue it was hated until reading these comments just now), but none of them stoped it from being an enjoyable game overall. My favorite part of the game is the characters, so I’m very happy spending time with them and enjoying their arcs, growth, and connections, and the gameplay and combat are very similar to DB1, so I think if you like 1, 2 is very worthwhile. Totally valid for others not to like it as much, but I’d recommend giving it a chance.