It always gives me chills. Dramatic irony at it's finest. Looking back to Kain's face when Raziel cast into the abyss is so crazy now. I will always hold this entire series close to my heart.
What i can Recomend you is The Gothic 1 and Gothic 2 Night of the Raven from 2001 and 2002. Theese games have very active communitiy and are Legendary Action RPG Games.
Soul Reaver 2 ending can be described as: Raziel meets Raziel using Raziel to kill Raziel in order to avoid Raziel from entering Raziel's Raziel, but inadvertidly causes Raziel to be forever bound Raziel. Featuring Kain.
The timeline of Raziel: Vampire-hating human. Corpse for a thousand years. Human-hating Vampire. Corpse for five hundred years. Righteous rebellious Wraith. Thoughtful and informed Martyr. Mindless phantom blade. The cause of 4 paradoxes. Schrodinger's Dispersed Ghost. Both bound to Kain to purify the Balance Guardian to act with clean sight, and yet dispersed in a finishing blow at the Pillars.
One thing you're missing in the time-line is the fact that there is also a raziel imprisoned for thousands of years in the soul reaver that various people wield.
Raziel was one of the biggest influences on me during my teen years. I will always remember when they met at the throne in SR1. The phrase "I would chose integrity" stuck with me. Then in defiance he had a choice, and he chose integrity.
Elder God: "From this moment, and ever after, you and this blade are inexplicably bound. Soul Reaver... and reaver of souls. Your destinies are intertwined." Such a good series.
There is a serious reason why people are still hoping for a remake or new parts of these games after 20 years... This story, these games... so unique. This is the best voice acting and ambience of all time. Playing this is not like other games, it's like a really really good movie that catches all your attention. You're part of this world while playing these games. I'll never stop loving Legacy of Kain, it is, was and will be the best game series ever made. I won't give up hoping on seeing this in 4K quality with all the new techniques we have nowdays.
I stopped gaming about 13 years ago. But whenever any of my friends suggest I start again, my response is always the same: "When they conclude the Legacy Of Kain series is when I will return to gaming. Until then, in the gaming wilderness I shall remain." Legacy Of Kain is easily my favourite piece of fiction (be it game, movie, tv series etc.) The thought that went into the storyline was incredible. I liked how at the end of Defiance, they set us up for the proper introduction of the Hylden and an explanation of THEIR history and motivations in the coming game/s. I have long since held a theory on where the story was going after Defiance: the manner in which the writer revealed the Elder God to be a parasite led me to believe that it was the HYLDEN who actually were enlightened and realised that the Elder God was a parasite, and due to their enlightenment, the Elder God manipulated both humans and vampires to cast out the Hylden to a parallel world. Remember: prior to the end of Defiance, even Kain himself couldn't see the Elder God in his true form, only Raziel (who himself was the unwitting Hylden champion). The only non-wraith/Hylden like beings in the entire series to ever see the Elder God in his true form were Moebius and Kain, AFTER they physically felt/held the purified Soul Reaver. Even in death, humans and vampires were blissfully unaware that the god they served was merely a parasitic squid/sea monster. Some often heard his voice, but never actually laid eyes upon his true physical form. So they simply accepted him as a god. I think the story was heading in the direction of revealing that the Hylden were, by and large, a force for good in the overall story (albeit with some evil villains in their ranks), and that their overall goal was to rid Nosgoth of the Elder God, and doing some rather bad things to get the job done (in much the same way Kain had tried).
Yep. Despite the fact that the Sarafan Lord was a leader for evil, I always believed he was just one side of THAT coin. There being a Hylden Queen fighting to preserve her race and overcome the Elder God makes total sense.
I'm gonna be honest if you search something that is even remotely close to what legacy of kain offers you'll be disappointed. You haven't missed much that's what i'm trying to say. I've played and watched hundreds of games but none where as unique and tragic as this one. In terms of visuals the closest thing i can think of would the Darksiders series.
The most amazing thing about this story? At the end, Raziel did choose integrity. Edit: Allow me to elaborate: In Soul Reaver, the first time Raziel encounters Kain in the Sanctuary of the Clans, Kain loses his cool when Raziel calls out his motives as irrational, to wich Kain's response was: " To know that the fate of the world hangs dependent on the advisedness of my every deed -- can you even begin to conceive what action you would take, in my position?" To wich Raziel answer was : "I would choose integrity, Kain. " Fastforward to the nearly end of Legacy of Kain: Defiance, we have Raziel last revelation after disposing of Moebious soul: "But what hope had there been? One cannot fight the unseen. (...) It was then I knew what I had to do. I alone could end this." Raziel chose what he thought should had been Kain's decision at the end of Blood Omen: Legacy of Kain. He sacrificed himself for the greater good... For the bitter taste of that terrible ilusion.
This franchise has so incredibly huge potential... Can you imagine a prequel to this already beautiful and vast story? Conversations with Raziel's ruthless brothers in their vampiric, uncorrupted form, the land of Nosgoth on today's systems and with today's possibilities? And finally, could you imagine playing Raziel as the dignified, proud, handsome, but cruel and merciless lieutenant he was during his devoted service to Kain? I mean, if the story was handled right, in comparison to Raziel from back then, Kratos from God of War, could look like a pussy-whipped rebel ... Come on developers, give us fans what we deserve for keeping this beautiful franchise alive to this day, but do it with passion and hearts it deserves. "Do not tarry!"
As long as it has the same voice actors, I'd totally be down for that :) Honestly, with all the remakes coming out now of beloved Ps1 classics (FFVII, Spyro, Crash, Medievil, etc), I'm hoping they'll at least remake it.
This game is such a rare gem that even the greatest game developers will have such a hard time just to keep up with such delicate and sophisticated "standards" and expectations of this specific franchise.
@@strictlyfantasy Sequels and prequels won't feel the same without Tony Jay and Paul Lukather but at least Simon Templeman, Renee Auberjonois, Anna Gunn and Michael Bell are still alive. If I remember correctly Amy Hennig knows the full story line and also gave the info to someone else before she left to join Naughty Dog. I really wish I could at least get the full story as a script or a book if no sequels are made. I hate it that the story didn't get a completion even though Defiance did a lot to satisfy my thirst for knowledge.
Me too! A book or novella would be great! I'm not sure if you are aware of this, but they released a Legacy of Kain: Soul Reaver comic published by Top Cow and Eidos Interactive in October 1999 which focuses on the vampire Raziel shortly prior to his execution. If they can create a prequel comic, then why not an epilogue as well? Maybe we can appeal to Amy Hennig to write it :)
@@strictlyfantasyI knew of that comic but have never read it myself. And i totally agree if they can make a prequel then why not make an ending too, most of us would be happy with that and i'm certain Amy Hennig would happily pen it, I know allot of people have asked her about it in the past and she's never shown any signs of not wanting to do it. I suppose at this late stage it's wishful thinking. One thing that really annoys me with Legacy of Kain is that the publisher has tried throwing together spin-off games like Dead Sun which was apparently a 'What if Kain died' scenario, then they made that Nosgoth Player V Player thing, and I'm assuming whether they finish making them or not those projects still cost allot of money to make why not just put the money towards finishing the story instead of making things no one asked for or wants. Like i'm part of Legacy of Kain fangroup who were basically encouraging people to play Nosgoth just to prove there was still interest in the series and it makes me sad that people resorted to that because Crystal Dynamic (it is Crystal Dynamics that owns it right, i keep getting confused with it) clearly knows there's still an audience for the series albeit very small... ...I'm gunna stop here because this turning into a very long essay (my apologies) i could honestly talk forever about the fate of Legacy of Kain, but yes i agree with what you said, make a comic or novel I imagine that would be way cheaper than a whole new game too and everyone would win.
@@strictlyfantasy Comics are very niche these days, far more than in the 90s. I have my hopes hanging on either a Netflix series that changes very little about the story, and maintains the complex dialogue, or even for the series to make a triumphant return to it's roots by making a full-fledged AAA open-world rpg that wraps up the story. Many people forget that the first game wasn't a hack'n'slash like Devil May Cry or God of War. LoK: Blood Omen was an open-world rpg, and I wish it stayed there, because in the end, I think the cheap combat systems of later games is what became it's downfall. Many fans I have talked to all agree that the story was the only reason they trudged through each level.
@@strictlyfantasy That said, thank you 200x for making these videos, and no matter how little, keeping this series, favorite of so many people, alive. Truly, this is the best story I have ever had the honor of enjoying.
It is hard to find a more relatable character than Raziel. His story is set on a grand scale and yet, everyone can empathize with his struggle. He is surrounded by people who want to use him for their own ends. He desperately wants to be the "good guy" of the story, the most noble character, but that naivety costs him time and again. Even his most valuable ally, Kain, wants to use him in order to re-write history and destiny itself. What I like most about Raziel is that he carefully measures all the different agendas that try to pull him one way or another, but it is with full recognition that he truly dedicates himself to Kain. He is under no illusions that Kain is a nice guy. But he realizes that Kain alone has a chance, a real chance, of restoring the world. His final words are haunting, tragic, and necessary. So he returned to Kain as his 'right hand'. Chilling.
Raziel Character has a strong sense of Righteousness even if it's through blind faith, passion or a higher purpose. Raziel is always trying to be hero. That tends to go sour, like cold blood licked from the floor, a good example of a tragic hero
I'm a Pole and i used to play legacy LOK series when i was a kid and even tho i didn't understand mostly anything from english language to the story, i still managed to fell in love with the characters and whole franchise, and i just read Raziel's whole story in my language and all the hype for the franchise is back. God i wish they would make a remaster or at least remake to show some respect for these series
He's the closest thing to a good guy in the entire LOK series. When he believes that vampires and Kain are corrupting the world he tries to purge them, even showing regret at one point after he kills his weakest, little brother. When he finds out he must sacrifice his physical form and devolve into a gluttonous monster imprisoned within the soul reaver, forever emaciated with hunger, he accepts, willing to save the world in exchange.
Just subscribed for the Legacy of Kain lore. I doubt there has ever been a franchise more worhy of deep analysis, yet so overlooked at the same time. You did a great job on those two vids, looking forward for more to come!
Another layer to add to the poetic irony of the confrontation between Raziel and himself was that the Raziel you play as is wielding his future self to slay his past self
Damn good. Great narration. I liked the inclusion of Aristotle, it fits very well. Good music and artwork choices. I'd 100% love to listen to longer videos on the LOK lore, character, locations, etc. Well done!
There was a quote that for me defined Raziel perfectly: What game was this, where every player on the board claimed the same pawn? (The pawn being Raziel and the players Kain, Moebius and the Elder God) The great thing about the quote is that Raziel said it and that realization helped his development trough the story.
Kain doesn't try to strike Raziel down with the Soul Reaver, he knew it would break and why. That's the reason Kain doesn't seem surprised when the sword breaks, and why Raziel saw a glimpse of satisfaction in Kain's eyes; it was a necessary step to pursue the third option to solve the dilemma regarding Kain's role as scion of balance. Not only that, but he truly believed he could do it without Raziel being trapped in the blade.
" I am not your enemy. I am, as before, your right hand, your sword. Now see the TRUE ENEMY.....*WHISPY DYING NOISES*" Fucking powerful series altogether
As a brief aside on Raziel's character design, I believe that his clan symbol on his cape, while using it as a mask, is meant to appear as tears to hint at the lamentations that tear at him.
I've actually seen someone try to make the case that Raziel's reason for being manipulated is more down to his reasoning than his emotions. The masterstroke of Moebius and the Elder God is that they don't lie quite as much on facts as they do on motives. They do omit things, but very rarely do they openly contradict a fact that Raziel could use to see through them unless it benefits their manipulations. Instead, they frequently lay out the facts and lie about the motivations of all involved. With the facts in place it's easier to concoct a motive to suit them than it is to take a completely fictional scenario and convince someone of it. But the argument undermines itself. Reasoning deals with the facts, in order to comprehend motives one has to understand the emotions of the one to be manipulated. Moebius frequently lies about his own reasons for wanting Kain dead, and lies about Kain's vain need to preserve his own life. Not that it's entirely a lie, Kain does want to keep himself alive, but not entirely for selfish reasons. He knows that the best way to keep the manipulations of Moebius and others to to keep the role he has invested in one familiar with the manipulators: himself, rather than allow for a new guardian to be born and naive to these facts. In SR2 and Defiance especially, we see Raziel advance passed his righteous indignation against Kain for damage done, and begin to question the motives of everyone. That's what ultimately saves him. I always thought that Ariel played a big part in that, since Raziel obviously sees a part of his own dilemma in her situation, and at times has taken the time to see if she sees it in herself. Her possibly eternal imprisonment, her irrational anger against Kain, her self-righteous indignation, her disfigurement, and her eventual release all parallel Raziel to varying degrees. I always had the impression that when he encountered her, he deliberately provoked her on one or more of these things, having just gotten over them himself.
Just discovered your channel. You are amazing and reminding me of why I really miss and cherish this series. I hope that survey from last year means they're bringing this back, because it's a gem
I had a theory once that the skull on the reaver blade is genuine and is actually Raziel's original skull plucked out of time. There has been many cycles and many different iterations of events before we got to the main 4 in the games. The creation of the eldar god being the relic of the very first timeline that died completely due to kain but unable to get kain himself. Raziel being cast into the lake as usual, came back as a wraith and then defeated by kain. kain then sees the first opportunity to fix everything while not knowing about the eldar gods plans to consume everything Why it is always fixated on kains death. It was the Eldar god who told the ancient vampires to use Raziels skull, magic used to harness his soul over and over and over again through each iteration of timelines. With each iteration making Raziel strong enough to have free will, strong enough to kill kain and become the ultimate soul at the end to feed upon. However each timeline, Kain, Raziel or both go back causing more and more unintended side effects which leads to the ruin of the Eldar god.
Maybe even a Netflix series? I think that would be a better way to both finish the series with an ending it deserves, and to do it in a fresh way that can both capture new fans, and give us old fans something too. Of course, it could only land correctly if it maintains it's complex dialogue and it's story remains minimally changed. Also, the original game was an open-world rpg, way ahead of it's time. I have wished for years that if they make a 6th game, 7th if you count Nosgoth, it would be amazing if they returned to that format. It would be silly to make it like an Elder Scrolls game, where everything on a table could be looted, but if it was like Shadow of Mordor, where you just ran around like a badass, that would be enough.
The defiant and noble raziel. For even as the world seeks to claim him, he chooses only the path he deems worthy, without the influence of his enemies.
This game has stuck with me for 23 years... I've been rebuilding, Nosgoth in the game, Skyrim for 10 of them. The story kept going for me in my head which, I am trying to conclude in the Skyrim Mod. I'm sure everyone has their own conclusions to the story. I'll keep looking through your vids, I may lean something new to include in my mod!!
This series need to be resurrected (no pun intended). Even the first Legacy of Kain game with its 2-D sprites and top down view had some of the best monologues ever in a video game. I want a new game from a capable studio. Even Crystal Dynamics without any pressure from a publisher (Square Enix - Marvel's Avengers) can do this series justice.
Great video I love the legacy of kain always have since I was a kid nice to see such a great games is still talked about still to this day it's a shame really it needs a remaster so bad.
I agree. They can do what they did with classics like Crash, Spyro and Medievil. Improve the graphics and gameplay, but change nothing about the story. They can even use the existing audio for the voices. Well, one can only hope. :)
@@strictlyfantasythat's would be amazing I would by that day one tbh and I would hope they would use the same audio and voices they were so integral to the game anyone else in a remaster dubbing over the original would be sacrilege the casting was already perfect and you know what they say if it ain't broken don't fix it.
Just like everyone says on here, I think you did a fantastic job, and I'm glad this was in my suggested. I absolutely love this series, and Soul Reaver was my first and favorite game that I had the pleasure of playing as a kid. I really, really hope you do more character studies for the LoK series, as there really isn't much; those that are there aren't as interesting, and don't really dive into the psyche or the way characters parallel each other and life lessons, even embody them. I'd love to see more LoK lore. Raziel is my absolute favorite :D Subscribed! Thank you for this! :D
I like to think that because Raziels soul was in the Reaver, that's what kept him alive whilst trapped in the abyss. The Elder God had nothing to do with reviving him, as he would have devoured Raziels soul but he couldn't due to it being in the Reaver
I was 13 years old when I first played Soul Reaver 2 and had 0 English knowledge. Yet, it fascinated me and motivated me to learn English to eventually replay it to understand the fantastic storyline and lore!
I can't believe I only discovered your channel now! This has to be the best lore channel by far. Thank you so much for this, it brought back a love and passion I had almost lost for this master piece of a series which has had a strong influence on my life
Soul Reaver for Dreamcast was my entry point to The Legacy of Kain. His journey and struggle always amazed me. And his tendency to need to define himself. First he was the loyal first-born of Kain's empire. Then lost as a wraith but quick to see himself as a savior after speaking with Ariel. That gets further reinforced by finding out his Sarafan heritage. After that he is quick to put them on a pedestal and bask in what he sees as their reflected glory. But then after meeting Janos he starts to see the ancient vampires as his noble heritage. While he is much more disillusioned of all that by Defiance he tries to be the rebel against fate because of everything Kain and Mobius said to him.
i was a kid when i first played it and remember being lost for hours, really like raziel. i still have hope that someday, this may get a remaster, remake or something, good game
I still got my copy of all my LoK titles. Just found your channel and wish I had sooner! Always great to find a fan making great stuff inspired by the series. Great job, man!
Every time I replay the games (and I have replayed them countless times over many years), I figure out new things and connections. Growing older made me grasp a lot of it much better. I first played Soul Reaver as a kid. Watching the many videos on this channel, I find out that there is still so much I have missed. My respect for Amy Hennig will never stop growing.
I cannot get enough of the masterpiece of soundtrack that this game had. The music in this series has no right to be this awesome, but it absolutely slaps!
You know I find your voice is pretty much spot on with the vampire and wraith story telling of Legacy of Kain and Soul Reaver series if I ever get one of the games I am going to look up the boss of the game on your channel
These videos are great. Every few years or months I look the game up to see if any remakes are possible. I highly doubt it but these videos scratch an itch
I have been waiting for a real continuation of the series. Defiance left a lot of open scenarios and untold stories. Even of Vorodor, and now Kain's future. As opposing race is not dead.
Just thought I should point this out about the character specifically, as it truly shows Amy's writing prowess. Raziel is obviously based on an Abrahamic character (like many of the characters in the series), specifically the Archangel Raziel. Raziel is known as the angel of secrets and mysteries. He sat at the throne of God and wrote each word that was uttered into his book. He was also known as the Angel of Man as he risked divine punishment by giving his book to Adam and Eve when they were cast out of Eden. His fellow archangels feared the knowledge the book possessed, and took it away from the mortals. Before Raziel was punished, God commanded that the angels stop and return the book to Adam and Eve. Although Raziel transgressed on the commandment of God, his creator understood that it came out of a place of love and compassion. Due to the purity of his intent, God forgave Raziel for his transgressions and the book was passed along the bloodline of Adam (given to even Noah for the construction of the Ark). *Side Note: A neat little fun fact is that whenever Raziel refers to Kain, the pronouns relating to Kain (ie. him, he, his, etc) are capitalized. In many Abrahamic texts, any pronouns relating to God were also capitalized. Kain is "God" to Raziel, and he stood next to Kain by His throne at the dawn of their empire, thus knowing many of Kain's secrets. But like God, Kain hid many things from His children, even from His Angel of Secrets.* This Raziel is a twisted parallel to the abrahamic version, following very similar tropes. I won't get into too much detail as this is already long, but this next thing still needs to be mentioned. In the Legacy of Kain: Soul Reaver series, we see Raziel attain a gift from his evolution (*ahem* WINGS *ahem*), surpassing Kain ("God"). Being a twisted mirror image to his angelic version, he was punished for his transgression and cast into the Lake of the Dead. Raziel is then resurrected, and proceeds down a path of discovery; unearthing secrets long-since forgotten. Those secrets involving a prophecy told by an extinct race of angelic beings that all seem to revolve around his paradoxical existence. Raziel, the angel of secrets, going down a path ordained by his God (either Elder God or Kain in this case), discovering the secrets of the world and himself. It is not an exact parallel, it's not supposed to be. However, the amount of depth in this ONE character, specifically with just their name and character plot, truly shows the magnificence that is this series. Looking forward to Forespoken!!!
While LoK has an immense plethora of beautiful prose, the final quote of Raziel both breaks my heart and warms my soul. "...And I am not your enemy, not your destroyer. I am, as before, your right hand; Your sword!". To see that Raziel reconciles the rigged game both he and Kain are apart of is one thing. What's more is the sentimental touch upon his (seemingly) "demise". That perhaps even after all he had gone through as a result of Kain, a wish remained buried within him to return to the days of being his champion. Upon understanding the true extent of the twists and turns surmounted against them, and the cost of which both they have sacrificed, and what would be sacrificed if either of them failed in their trials to unveil the truth. In spite of how seemingly hopeless this eternal task is presented to be. To me it feels that in his final moments, Raziel not only merges the Soul Reaver and purifies the scion of balance in body but in a much more profound way, to rekindle the bond between he and Kain. To know he sees him as his brethren or kindred as Kain recognised within the blade however many millennia ago. His final act to guide the coin Kain tossed, both overcoming the suffering he endured in spite of it and understanding in clarity the desperate plea that threw it. To say it's bittersweet is an understatement, but it's truly a beautiful moment, expertly weaving a meaningful tragedy.
ah ye even with knowing the end you view refreshed my view aswell and I notice aswell the semblance of the jawless skull on the soulreaver is a fiting symbolis of Raziel
Redeemer and Destroyer, the champion to both the Vampires and the Hylden. And he fulfills all destinies given him. He defeats the Vampire champion and the Hylden champion with his sacrifice while aiding the Scion of Balance by purifying him at the moment of his demise. The nature of Raziel’s destiny was planned and executed with expert precision.
The intro cut-scene for Soul Reaver is one of the best beginnings to a video game ever made, nothing tops it.
can't agree more
Still the best video game series I've ever played!
Onimusha 3 opening/menu video
Same for the whole storyline of the series. One of the best ever...
It always gives me chills. Dramatic irony at it's finest. Looking back to Kain's face when Raziel cast into the abyss is so crazy now. I will always hold this entire series close to my heart.
Being a gamer for over 30 years , I'm never experienced a story as mind blowing as the complete LOK series. Amy doesn't get enough credit.
I couldn't agree with you more,
The closest decent gaming lore in the present would be the dark souls series but still LoK is way above its league
What i can Recomend you is The Gothic 1 and Gothic 2 Night of the Raven from 2001 and 2002. Theese games have very active communitiy and are Legendary Action RPG Games.
Amy Hennig's best work. She took the shattered bits and went through hell to deliver the most cinematic and gripping world's gaming has seen to date
That also somehow makes mostly sense.
Same bud.this series blew my mind.went so far to get a raziel tattoo (based on soul reaver 2 game box cover)
Soul Reaver 2 ending can be described as: Raziel meets Raziel using Raziel to kill Raziel in order to avoid Raziel from entering Raziel's Raziel, but inadvertidly causes Raziel to be forever bound Raziel. Featuring Kain.
Okay Max0r
@@dudenamedzelda3179 I love you
And Dante from the Devil May Cry Series
This franchise deserves a Remake.
Everything should be left the same. 4k graphics. A better camera angle system and better combat.
Sadly Tony Jay is dead a long time.
Not a remake, they would trash it.
@@jameswatsonatheistgamer what you said
No, they need to remaster the game, not remake it.
Raziel will always be my all time favourite Video Game Character and in my opinion Michael Bell's finest role as a Voice Actor.
Him, Simon Templeman, and Tony Jay.
You should see the outtakes. Two words: Drag Reaver
All are amazing, but to me Simon Templeman as Kain is top dog any day of the week. 🖤
Raziel is great, but Kain also.
I assumed he was a silent protagonist with his missing lower jawbone.
The timeline of Raziel:
Vampire-hating human.
Corpse for a thousand years.
Human-hating Vampire.
Corpse for five hundred years.
Righteous rebellious Wraith.
Thoughtful and informed Martyr.
Mindless phantom blade.
The cause of 4 paradoxes.
Schrodinger's Dispersed Ghost. Both bound to Kain to purify the Balance Guardian to act with clean sight, and yet dispersed in a finishing blow at the Pillars.
"Redeemer and destroyer. Pawn and messiah. Welcome, time-spanned soul. welcome, to your destiny" - Moby
One thing you're missing in the time-line is the fact that there is also a raziel imprisoned for thousands of years in the soul reaver that various people wield.
Razïel - The Soul Reaver Sword
The Elder God's Will
One of the deepest characters ever conceived! The ending to Soul Reaver 2 is one of my favourite moments in gaming history!
Fuck yea. Mine too
Balaclavas are sexy titty action
I liked them all. Blood omen 2 and defiance as-well.
@@jameswatsonatheistgamer yeah right
History abhors a paradox.
Raziel was one of the biggest influences on me during my teen years.
I will always remember when they met at the throne in SR1. The phrase "I would chose integrity" stuck with me. Then in defiance he had a choice, and he chose integrity.
For me Kain's coin monologue is the reason l fight against every 2 option only thing
"History abhors a paradox."
-Raziel
Kain said it first though.
@@ryansmith4494 Raziel's held so much more impact given the context.
@@coast2coast-295not really.
Kain had to teach that to Raziel.
If not he wouldn't have regurgitated the same line.
I loved how how his clan symbol on his cape made it look like tears when he wore it around his face
Raziel occupied 3 forms. I always found that bit to be cool. The coin landed on it's edge.
Actually 4 forms🤓
Human
Vampire
Vampiric wraith
The Soul Reaver itself
@@greenparksquad6336 I'm on about the wraith. Thats the most important part. The physical vampite
Raziel screaming in the abyss still gives me chills. Such incredible voice acting.
Elder God: "From this moment, and ever after, you and this blade are inexplicably bound. Soul Reaver... and reaver of souls. Your destinies are intertwined."
Such a good series.
There is a serious reason why people are still hoping for a remake or new parts of these games after 20 years... This story, these games... so unique. This is the best voice acting and ambience of all time. Playing this is not like other games, it's like a really really good movie that catches all your attention. You're part of this world while playing these games. I'll never stop loving Legacy of Kain, it is, was and will be the best game series ever made. I won't give up hoping on seeing this in 4K quality with all the new techniques we have nowdays.
Couldn't put it better myself 💪🏾👏🏾👏🏾
Just play it again. New games aren't better than old games simply by virtue of being new. There's nothing to improve by making it again.
Lol better ask for the series get continued instead the dumb remaking/remastering everything BS
I stopped gaming about 13 years ago. But whenever any of my friends suggest I start again, my response is always the same: "When they conclude the Legacy Of Kain series is when I will return to gaming. Until then, in the gaming wilderness I shall remain."
Legacy Of Kain is easily my favourite piece of fiction (be it game, movie, tv series etc.) The thought that went into the storyline was incredible. I liked how at the end of Defiance, they set us up for the proper introduction of the Hylden and an explanation of THEIR history and motivations in the coming game/s.
I have long since held a theory on where the story was going after Defiance: the manner in which the writer revealed the Elder God to be a parasite led me to believe that it was the HYLDEN who actually were enlightened and realised that the Elder God was a parasite, and due to their enlightenment, the Elder God manipulated both humans and vampires to cast out the Hylden to a parallel world.
Remember: prior to the end of Defiance, even Kain himself couldn't see the Elder God in his true form, only Raziel (who himself was the unwitting Hylden champion). The only non-wraith/Hylden like beings in the entire series to ever see the Elder God in his true form were Moebius and Kain, AFTER they physically felt/held the purified Soul Reaver. Even in death, humans and vampires were blissfully unaware that the god they served was merely a parasitic squid/sea monster. Some often heard his voice, but never actually laid eyes upon his true physical form. So they simply accepted him as a god.
I think the story was heading in the direction of revealing that the Hylden were, by and large, a force for good in the overall story (albeit with some evil villains in their ranks), and that their overall goal was to rid Nosgoth of the Elder God, and doing some rather bad things to get the job done (in much the same way Kain had tried).
Yep. Despite the fact that the Sarafan Lord was a leader for evil, I always believed he was just one side of THAT coin. There being a Hylden Queen fighting to preserve her race and overcome the Elder God makes total sense.
The Seer from Blood Omen 2.
I'm gonna be honest if you search something that is even remotely close to what legacy of kain offers you'll be disappointed.
You haven't missed much that's what i'm trying to say. I've played and watched hundreds of games but none where as unique and tragic as this one.
In terms of visuals the closest thing i can think of would the Darksiders series.
The most amazing thing about this story? At the end, Raziel did choose integrity.
Edit: Allow me to elaborate:
In Soul Reaver, the first time Raziel encounters Kain in the Sanctuary of the Clans, Kain loses his cool when Raziel calls out his motives as irrational, to wich Kain's response was: " To know that the fate of the world hangs dependent on the advisedness of my every deed -- can you even begin to conceive what action you would take, in my position?"
To wich Raziel answer was : "I would choose integrity, Kain. "
Fastforward to the nearly end of Legacy of Kain: Defiance, we have Raziel last revelation after disposing of Moebious soul: "But what hope had there been? One cannot fight the unseen. (...) It was then I knew what I had to do. I alone could end this."
Raziel chose what he thought should had been Kain's decision at the end of Blood Omen: Legacy of Kain.
He sacrificed himself for the greater good...
For the bitter taste of that terrible ilusion.
So did Ardyn Izunia.
www.deviantart.com/haddad062/journal/It-s-OK-when-the-Gods-do-it-An-FFXV-Analysis-854124077
@@shareefhaddad2377 FF has nothing on LOK.
@@shareefhaddad2377 what does this have to do with Legacy Of Kain?
@@shareefhaddad2377 Why you pushing this on us? Go back to IKEA
This series has so much depth to it.
This franchise has so incredibly huge potential... Can you imagine a prequel to this already beautiful and vast story? Conversations with Raziel's ruthless brothers in their vampiric, uncorrupted form, the land of Nosgoth on today's systems and with today's possibilities? And finally, could you imagine playing Raziel as the dignified, proud, handsome, but cruel and merciless lieutenant he was during his devoted service to Kain? I mean, if the story was handled right, in comparison to Raziel from back then, Kratos from God of War, could look like a pussy-whipped rebel ... Come on developers, give us fans what we deserve for keeping this beautiful franchise alive to this day, but do it with passion and hearts it deserves. "Do not tarry!"
As long as it has the same voice actors, I'd totally be down for that :) Honestly, with all the remakes coming out now of beloved Ps1 classics (FFVII, Spyro, Crash, Medievil, etc), I'm hoping they'll at least remake it.
@@strictlyfantasy so right you are. I Love Micheal Bell so much for what he has achieved with Raziel's character...
This game is such a rare gem that even the greatest game developers will have such a hard time just to keep up with such delicate and sophisticated "standards" and expectations of this specific franchise.
@@strictlyfantasy Sequels and prequels won't feel the same without Tony Jay and Paul Lukather but at least Simon Templeman, Renee Auberjonois, Anna Gunn and Michael Bell are still alive. If I remember correctly Amy Hennig knows the full story line and also gave the info to someone else before she left to join Naughty Dog. I really wish I could at least get the full story as a script or a book if no sequels are made. I hate it that the story didn't get a completion even though Defiance did a lot to satisfy my thirst for knowledge.
No no. "Fuck you Vampire" THIS IS ART xD fucking idiots
At this late stage i'd accept a novel or comic based on the cancelled Dark Prophecy, anything to get the true ending of the story.
Me too! A book or novella would be great! I'm not sure if you are aware of this, but they released a
Legacy of Kain: Soul Reaver comic published by Top Cow and Eidos Interactive in October 1999 which focuses on the vampire Raziel shortly prior to his execution. If they can create a prequel comic, then why not an epilogue as well? Maybe we can appeal to Amy Hennig to write it :)
@@strictlyfantasyI knew of that comic but have never read it myself. And i totally agree if they can make a prequel then why not make an ending too, most of us would be happy with that and i'm certain Amy Hennig would happily pen it, I know allot of people have asked her about it in the past and she's never shown any signs of not wanting to do it. I suppose at this late stage it's wishful thinking.
One thing that really annoys me with Legacy of Kain is that the publisher has tried throwing together spin-off games like Dead Sun which was apparently a 'What if Kain died' scenario, then they made that Nosgoth Player V Player thing, and I'm assuming whether they finish making them or not those projects still cost allot of money to make why not just put the money towards finishing the story instead of making things no one asked for or wants. Like i'm part of Legacy of Kain fangroup who were basically encouraging people to play Nosgoth just to prove there was still interest in the series and it makes me sad that people resorted to that because Crystal Dynamic (it is Crystal Dynamics that owns it right, i keep getting confused with it) clearly knows there's still an audience for the series albeit very small...
...I'm gunna stop here because this turning into a very long essay (my apologies) i could honestly talk forever about the fate of Legacy of Kain, but yes i agree with what you said, make a comic or novel I imagine that would be way cheaper than a whole new game too and everyone would win.
A graphic novel would be best
@@strictlyfantasy Comics are very niche these days, far more than in the 90s. I have my hopes hanging on either a Netflix series that changes very little about the story, and maintains the complex dialogue, or even for the series to make a triumphant return to it's roots by making a full-fledged AAA open-world rpg that wraps up the story. Many people forget that the first game wasn't a hack'n'slash like Devil May Cry or God of War. LoK: Blood Omen was an open-world rpg, and I wish it stayed there, because in the end, I think the cheap combat systems of later games is what became it's downfall. Many fans I have talked to all agree that the story was the only reason they trudged through each level.
@@strictlyfantasy That said, thank you 200x for making these videos, and no matter how little, keeping this series, favorite of so many people, alive. Truly, this is the best story I have ever had the honor of enjoying.
It is hard to find a more relatable character than Raziel. His story is set on a grand scale and yet, everyone can empathize with his struggle.
He is surrounded by people who want to use him for their own ends. He desperately wants to be the "good guy" of the story, the most noble character, but that naivety costs him time and again. Even his most valuable ally, Kain, wants to use him in order to re-write history and destiny itself.
What I like most about Raziel is that he carefully measures all the different agendas that try to pull him one way or another, but it is with full recognition that he truly dedicates himself to Kain. He is under no illusions that Kain is a nice guy. But he realizes that Kain alone has a chance, a real chance, of restoring the world. His final words are haunting, tragic, and necessary. So he returned to Kain as his 'right hand'. Chilling.
Raziel Character has a strong sense of Righteousness even if it's through blind faith, passion or a higher purpose. Raziel is always trying to be hero. That tends to go sour, like cold blood licked from the floor, a good example of a tragic hero
God dame i forgot how good the writing in soul raver was. Has down the best write in any game every on the level of placesape torment.
exactly my thought !
I remember raving to Soul Raver... with my glow sticks and all... and stuff
@@toons124 you know this is a really good joke replay about my tradable spelling.
I'm a Pole and i used to play legacy LOK series when i was a kid and even tho i didn't understand mostly anything from english language to the story, i still managed to fell in love with the characters and whole franchise, and i just read Raziel's whole story in my language and all the hype for the franchise is back. God i wish they would make a remaster or at least remake to show some respect for these series
@@toons124 underrated comment
I honestly don't understand how this hasn't become a movie
I love how human Razial is an evil bartered but vampire Razial is a good man.
Wraith Raziel* Vampire Raziel was just like his Human self.
He's the closest thing to a good guy in the entire LOK series. When he believes that vampires and Kain are corrupting the world he tries to purge them, even showing regret at one point after he kills his weakest, little brother. When he finds out he must sacrifice his physical form and devolve into a gluttonous monster imprisoned within the soul reaver, forever emaciated with hunger, he accepts, willing to save the world in exchange.
Awesome
I read "evil bartender" and was much confused
He had to lose his humanity to gain honor.
His balaclava was actually his cape with a new purpose now.
Raziel, in the Kabbalistic sense, is also known as "The Secret of God."
He's even got a book, as it turns out.
Interesting, that non-sphere in the tree of life?
Sepher Raziel is a medieval book of jewish magick
@@satansjihad6353 Sefer Raziel HaMalakh, it means "the book of Raziel the angel" so Raziel isn't a book, the book is named after him
The angel Raziel I mean
@@WisteriaNerium Interesting, as a Jew I did not know that..
My all time favourite game series to this day! 👌
Just subscribed for the Legacy of Kain lore. I doubt there has ever been a franchise more worhy of deep analysis, yet so overlooked at the same time. You did a great job on those two vids, looking forward for more to come!
Same, this is fantastic.
Silent Hill. Resident evil. Soma. Dead space. Parasite eve
But this the best of them all.
Another layer to add to the poetic irony of the confrontation between Raziel and himself was that the Raziel you play as is wielding his future self to slay his past self
Soul Reaver really made the Legacy of Kain series something great, and Raziel’s story is captivating right from the jump.
Damn good. Great narration. I liked the inclusion of Aristotle, it fits very well. Good music and artwork choices. I'd 100% love to listen to longer videos on the LOK lore, character, locations, etc. Well done!
Thanks for the feedback :)
Thanks for making these, more people need to remember this amazing tale
Maybe another hint is that both Raziel and the Soul Reaver has just Its upper fangs (Just something I noticed...)
That's cool! :)
This has been my favorite game series for 19 years and I have never noticed that. Wow do I feel stupid.
@@The_ScapeGoat I had the same feeling whhen I realized that hahaha
This saga should be made either into a motion picture, or a mini-series. It is one of the greatest vampire stories ever told.
The Legacy of Kain series is one of my favorite stories. I wish the series could be updated and continued.
Amazing, I need more of these.
And thus you've described Raziel's quest for knowledge perfectly. we have no idea what's going on, neither does our boy
There was a quote that for me defined Raziel perfectly:
What game was this, where every player on the board claimed the same pawn?
(The pawn being Raziel and the players Kain, Moebius and the Elder God)
The great thing about the quote is that Raziel said it and that realization helped his development trough the story.
Kain doesn't try to strike Raziel down with the Soul Reaver, he knew it would break and why. That's the reason Kain doesn't seem surprised when the sword breaks, and why Raziel saw a glimpse of satisfaction in Kain's eyes; it was a necessary step to pursue the third option to solve the dilemma regarding Kain's role as scion of balance.
Not only that, but he truly believed he could do it without Raziel being trapped in the blade.
I would love to see a Legacy of Kain live action movie. I still think Simon Templeman could play the role of Kain.
or If they plan to make an Animated Series like Castlevania on Netflix.
@@usamazahid3882
Exactly ..
It wouldnt be Kain without Simon! I will not accept anyone else as him
" I am not your enemy. I am, as before, your right hand, your sword. Now see the TRUE ENEMY.....*WHISPY DYING NOISES*"
Fucking powerful series altogether
Ah the nostalgia. I remember religiously playing this series from blood omen to defiance. My favorite character was Janos
I'd really love a game were you can play as vampire Raziel.
A game of Raziel's human life would be amazing too before & after his Sarafan years.
As a brief aside on Raziel's character design, I believe that his clan symbol on his cape, while using it as a mask, is meant to appear as tears to hint at the lamentations that tear at him.
raziel is still one of the coolest charater designs with one if the coolest theme songs in any game with the coolest story
Those blind with rage, are by destiny ensnared.
- Ariel
"Kain refused the sacrifice!"
The soundtrack is just so epic!
When things come full circle in the seraphim citadel my little kid brain exploded
I've actually seen someone try to make the case that Raziel's reason for being manipulated is more down to his reasoning than his emotions. The masterstroke of Moebius and the Elder God is that they don't lie quite as much on facts as they do on motives. They do omit things, but very rarely do they openly contradict a fact that Raziel could use to see through them unless it benefits their manipulations. Instead, they frequently lay out the facts and lie about the motivations of all involved. With the facts in place it's easier to concoct a motive to suit them than it is to take a completely fictional scenario and convince someone of it.
But the argument undermines itself. Reasoning deals with the facts, in order to comprehend motives one has to understand the emotions of the one to be manipulated. Moebius frequently lies about his own reasons for wanting Kain dead, and lies about Kain's vain need to preserve his own life. Not that it's entirely a lie, Kain does want to keep himself alive, but not entirely for selfish reasons. He knows that the best way to keep the manipulations of Moebius and others to to keep the role he has invested in one familiar with the manipulators: himself, rather than allow for a new guardian to be born and naive to these facts.
In SR2 and Defiance especially, we see Raziel advance passed his righteous indignation against Kain for damage done, and begin to question the motives of everyone. That's what ultimately saves him. I always thought that Ariel played a big part in that, since Raziel obviously sees a part of his own dilemma in her situation, and at times has taken the time to see if she sees it in herself. Her possibly eternal imprisonment, her irrational anger against Kain, her self-righteous indignation, her disfigurement, and her eventual release all parallel Raziel to varying degrees. I always had the impression that when he encountered her, he deliberately provoked her on one or more of these things, having just gotten over them himself.
This franchise had, to this date, the best lore of any games i ever played
Just discovered your channel. You are amazing and reminding me of why I really miss and cherish this series. I hope that survey from last year means they're bringing this back, because it's a gem
I had a theory once that the skull on the reaver blade is genuine and is actually Raziel's original skull plucked out of time. There has been many cycles and many different iterations of events before we got to the main 4 in the games. The creation of the eldar god being the relic of the very first timeline that died completely due to kain but unable to get kain himself.
Raziel being cast into the lake as usual, came back as a wraith and then defeated by kain. kain then sees the first opportunity to fix everything while not knowing about the eldar gods plans to consume everything Why it is always fixated on kains death.
It was the Eldar god who told the ancient vampires to use Raziels skull, magic used to harness his soul over and over and over again through each iteration of timelines. With each iteration making Raziel strong enough to have free will, strong enough to kill kain and become the ultimate soul at the end to feed upon. However each timeline, Kain, Raziel or both go back causing more and more unintended side effects which leads to the ruin of the Eldar god.
👏🏻 Beautifully put. I love this game. If they cannot continue the series at least make a collection of these games. Or a book. Thanks man. 👍🏻
Maybe even a Netflix series? I think that would be a better way to both finish the series with an ending it deserves, and to do it in a fresh way that can both capture new fans, and give us old fans something too. Of course, it could only land correctly if it maintains it's complex dialogue and it's story remains minimally changed. Also, the original game was an open-world rpg, way ahead of it's time. I have wished for years that if they make a 6th game, 7th if you count Nosgoth, it would be amazing if they returned to that format. It would be silly to make it like an Elder Scrolls game, where everything on a table could be looted, but if it was like Shadow of Mordor, where you just ran around like a badass, that would be enough.
This game needs a faithful remaster that promises to keep Anita Sarkeesian as far away from it as humanly possible.
The defiant and noble raziel. For even as the world seeks to claim him, he chooses only the path he deems worthy, without the influence of his enemies.
This game has stuck with me for 23 years... I've been rebuilding, Nosgoth in the game, Skyrim for 10 of them. The story kept going for me in my head which, I am trying to conclude in the Skyrim Mod. I'm sure everyone has their own conclusions to the story. I'll keep looking through your vids, I may lean something new to include in my mod!!
Legacy of kain is one of the best written games ever made. Most games now don't even compare.
'My blood thirst has been superseded by an even darker hunger. I will consume your soul before this day is done'
This series need to be resurrected (no pun intended). Even the first Legacy of Kain game with its 2-D sprites and top down view had some of the best monologues ever in a video game. I want a new game from a capable studio. Even Crystal Dynamics without any pressure from a publisher (Square Enix - Marvel's Avengers) can do this series justice.
Great video I love the legacy of kain always have since I was a kid nice to see such a great games is still talked about still to this day it's a shame really it needs a remaster so bad.
I agree. They can do what they did with classics like Crash, Spyro and Medievil. Improve the graphics and gameplay, but change nothing about the story. They can even use the existing audio for the voices. Well, one can only hope. :)
@@strictlyfantasythat's would be amazing I would by that day one tbh and I would hope they would use the same audio and voices they were so integral to the game anyone else in a remaster dubbing over the original would be sacrilege the casting was already perfect and you know what they say if it ain't broken don't fix it.
Will you do other characters?
@@billmcdermott9647 Absolutely!
Just like everyone says on here, I think you did a fantastic job, and I'm glad this was in my suggested. I absolutely love this series, and Soul Reaver was my first and favorite game that I had the pleasure of playing as a kid. I really, really hope you do more character studies for the LoK series, as there really isn't much; those that are there aren't as interesting, and don't really dive into the psyche or the way characters parallel each other and life lessons, even embody them. I'd love to see more LoK lore. Raziel is my absolute favorite :D Subscribed! Thank you for this! :D
I like to think that because Raziels soul was in the Reaver, that's what kept him alive whilst trapped in the abyss.
The Elder God had nothing to do with reviving him, as he would have devoured Raziels soul but he couldn't due to it being in the Reaver
I was 13 years old when I first played Soul Reaver 2 and had 0 English knowledge. Yet, it fascinated me and motivated me to learn English to eventually replay it to understand the fantastic storyline and lore!
I can't believe I only discovered your channel now! This has to be the best lore channel by far. Thank you so much for this, it brought back a love and passion I had almost lost for this master piece of a series which has had a strong influence on my life
Soul Reaver for Dreamcast was my entry point to The Legacy of Kain. His journey and struggle always amazed me. And his tendency to need to define himself. First he was the loyal first-born of Kain's empire. Then lost as a wraith but quick to see himself as a savior after speaking with Ariel. That gets further reinforced by finding out his Sarafan heritage. After that he is quick to put them on a pedestal and bask in what he sees as their reflected glory. But then after meeting Janos he starts to see the ancient vampires as his noble heritage. While he is much more disillusioned of all that by Defiance he tries to be the rebel against fate because of everything Kain and Mobius said to him.
We need a remake of the whole series into one game to completely finish it with a ending
OMG... You started this video with such amazing dialogue lines which meant so so so much!!
I know right...
And to think, we wouldn't have had this awsome story if the Devs were able to make the original version of Soul Reaver.
i was a kid when i first played it and remember being lost for hours, really like raziel. i still have hope that someday, this may get a remaster, remake or something, good game
i'd love a remaster, but would dread a remake.
modern sensibilities would harm the story the Series is trying to tell.
It's amazing how many lesser characters got longer videos than Raziel in these character studies.
oh cool, that's my Artwork at 1:36 :)
Really?? That's fucking amazing dude!
No its not
One of the most well written characters in video game history. Underrated protagonist
We are all in the abyss waiting for the day that they can conclude this amazing story
This videos seems so elegantly choreographed.
I still got my copy of all my LoK titles. Just found your channel and wish I had sooner! Always great to find a fan making great stuff inspired by the series. Great job, man!
2:20 "sometimes a coin lands on its side"
Every time I replay the games (and I have replayed them countless times over many years), I figure out new things and connections. Growing older made me grasp a lot of it much better. I first played Soul Reaver as a kid. Watching the many videos on this channel, I find out that there is still so much I have missed. My respect for Amy Hennig will never stop growing.
I have just began watching your Legacy of Kain videos. They are absolutely fantastic and I want to thank you for creating them.
Thank you for the kind feedback.
I hope you make more of these. The lore is rich in Nosgoth.
I cannot get enough of the masterpiece of soundtrack that this game had. The music in this series has no right to be this awesome, but it absolutely slaps!
When he falls into the abyss, it's such a powerful moment. And the music fits so well too
I am thoroughly enjoying ALL of the Kain videos!! This game collection was and still is a Master's class in fantasy story telling and world building
You know I find your voice is pretty much spot on with the vampire and wraith story telling of Legacy of Kain and Soul Reaver series if I ever get one of the games I am going to look up the boss of the game on your channel
so raziel killed himself to become a vampire?
These videos are great. Every few years or months I look the game up to see if any remakes are possible. I highly doubt it but these videos scratch an itch
I have been waiting for a real continuation of the series. Defiance left a lot of open scenarios and untold stories. Even of Vorodor, and now Kain's future. As opposing race is not dead.
Just thought I should point this out about the character specifically, as it truly shows Amy's writing prowess. Raziel is obviously based on an Abrahamic character (like many of the characters in the series), specifically the Archangel Raziel. Raziel is known as the angel of secrets and mysteries. He sat at the throne of God and wrote each word that was uttered into his book. He was also known as the Angel of Man as he risked divine punishment by giving his book to Adam and Eve when they were cast out of Eden. His fellow archangels feared the knowledge the book possessed, and took it away from the mortals. Before Raziel was punished, God commanded that the angels stop and return the book to Adam and Eve. Although Raziel transgressed on the commandment of God, his creator understood that it came out of a place of love and compassion. Due to the purity of his intent, God forgave Raziel for his transgressions and the book was passed along the bloodline of Adam (given to even Noah for the construction of the Ark).
*Side Note: A neat little fun fact is that whenever Raziel refers to Kain, the pronouns relating to Kain (ie. him, he, his, etc) are capitalized. In many Abrahamic texts, any pronouns relating to God were also capitalized. Kain is "God" to Raziel, and he stood next to Kain by His throne at the dawn of their empire, thus knowing many of Kain's secrets. But like God, Kain hid many things from His children, even from His Angel of Secrets.*
This Raziel is a twisted parallel to the abrahamic version, following very similar tropes. I won't get into too much detail as this is already long, but this next thing still needs to be mentioned. In the Legacy of Kain: Soul Reaver series, we see Raziel attain a gift from his evolution (*ahem* WINGS *ahem*), surpassing Kain ("God"). Being a twisted mirror image to his angelic version, he was punished for his transgression and cast into the Lake of the Dead. Raziel is then resurrected, and proceeds down a path of discovery; unearthing secrets long-since forgotten. Those secrets involving a prophecy told by an extinct race of angelic beings that all seem to revolve around his paradoxical existence. Raziel, the angel of secrets, going down a path ordained by his God (either Elder God or Kain in this case), discovering the secrets of the world and himself. It is not an exact parallel, it's not supposed to be. However, the amount of depth in this ONE character, specifically with just their name and character plot, truly shows the magnificence that is this series. Looking forward to Forespoken!!!
While LoK has an immense plethora of beautiful prose, the final quote of Raziel both breaks my heart and warms my soul. "...And I am not your enemy, not your destroyer. I am, as before, your right hand; Your sword!". To see that Raziel reconciles the rigged game both he and Kain are apart of is one thing. What's more is the sentimental touch upon his (seemingly) "demise". That perhaps even after all he had gone through as a result of Kain, a wish remained buried within him to return to the days of being his champion.
Upon understanding the true extent of the twists and turns surmounted against them, and the cost of which both they have sacrificed, and what would be sacrificed if either of them failed in their trials to unveil the truth. In spite of how seemingly hopeless this eternal task is presented to be. To me it feels that in his final moments, Raziel not only merges the Soul Reaver and purifies the scion of balance in body but in a much more profound way, to rekindle the bond between he and Kain. To know he sees him as his brethren or kindred as Kain recognised within the blade however many millennia ago. His final act to guide the coin Kain tossed, both overcoming the suffering he endured in spite of it and understanding in clarity the desperate plea that threw it.
To say it's bittersweet is an understatement, but it's truly a beautiful moment, expertly weaving a meaningful tragedy.
He uses his clan's flag as a cowl (covering)
A balaclava is a mask that covers the entire head, save for a circle cut out just for the eyes
Just after the intro of soul reaver 1, I was stunned. And right after that...
"I know you Raziel. You are worthy"
Holy shit.
These are amazing, I can't wait for more! Also, as an artist, than you for crediting the artists!
I really enjoyed this game as a kid and now I wish for a remake. It's very fitting for today's time.
One of my favorite game series of all time. And you’ve made more videos on it. Subscribed. Can’t wait to see more.
i think is one of the Best lines: Oh no. Every time you turn up something monumental and terrible happens. I don't think i have the stomach for it.
Amazing storyline, near-Shakespearean dialogue, character arcs everywhere, compelling gameplay… this game deserves a second chance
The fact this never became a movie or full blown show is still mind boggling...
I love how the Soul Reaver kinda looks like Raziel consuming a soul
Black and Zamasu are a trip for sure. Link came outta nowhere. Kirbo with some serious fire power 😅
ah ye even with knowing the end you view refreshed my view aswell and I notice aswell the semblance of the jawless skull on the soulreaver is a fiting symbolis of Raziel
Life sucks so much for Raziel. As happy as playing him makes me, I wish he could have a better fate.
Redeemer and Destroyer, the champion to both the Vampires and the Hylden. And he fulfills all destinies given him. He defeats the Vampire champion and the Hylden champion with his sacrifice while aiding the Scion of Balance by purifying him at the moment of his demise. The nature of Raziel’s destiny was planned and executed with expert precision.
Loving your character studies, you tend to analyze more than just recite the plot.