Man I loved Shrift 1. Top 5 H-Game for me. But Shrift 2 just isn't landing for me. I think the improved animations and artwork is the only thing I enjoy more in Shrift 2.
same. I think its because we already know a lot of the lore, like the black coffins, demons etc..
Theres also the lack of desperation, the struggle to survive. As Kazuya it was always scary exploring the map, you are literally the only human being left in the containment zone. One wrong single move will kill Kazuya and you (the returner).
Now compare that to Richard. Has a home, surrounded by people he can trust (sorta), stable "job" and does not live in a war zone (yet).
You also bond very fast with Kazuya, dont really feel the same way with Richard. Probably because Kazuya was basically a random dude and Richard is a high-priest in training.
Edit: One more thing to add, I really hate the dungeon crawler and the grind for stats/abilities. Really pads the game a lot.