Sometimes the best video games are relatively unknown, especially smaller titles that get overshadowed by AAA or big-name releases. Gamers generally refer to these underrated games as hidden gems -- and every console generation has its fair share. One of the best hack n' slash hidden gems to come out of the PS2 era is The Mark of Kri. Its fast-paced action, unique art style and captivating storytelling make it a true must-play for hack n' slash fans.

The Mark of Kri follows a young barbarian named Rau Utu after an evil clan known as the Kasai release an ancient curse upon his land. To complete the wicked ritual, the Kasai must capture a group of villagers marked with a mystical symbol called the Kri. Rau must find and protect everyone marked by the Kri before the Kasai complete their sinister plan of world domination.

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The Mark of Kri might not sound like the most original title ever made, but the way the game portrays its story more than makes up for its generic plot. The entire game is told from the perspective of Rau's loyal raven, Kuzo, a wise old bird with insight on the Kasai that Rau has yet to uncover.

The raven narrates the game like an old storyteller from archaic times. Kuzo is accompanied by majestic, hand-drawn pictures that depict important events throughout Rau's journey. This artistic style perfectly complements The Mark of Kri's sophisticated tone.

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Storytelling isn't the only unique aspect of The Mark of Kri. It also has one of the most unconventional combat systems ever utilized in a hack n' slash title. Players use the right analog stick to assign button commands to surrounding enemies. One opponent will have an X over their head, while another has a square or circle. Players can attack the marked hostiles by pressing the button that corresponds with each enemy. Combos can be performed by highlighting a combatant and pressing a specific button combination.

Rau will only be able to pull off combos while fighting one or two opponents, since highlighting more restricts button use. For example, players can't use the X, circle, square, X combination if another enemy has already been assigned the square button. However, players can use the X, circle, circle, X combo, since no one has been assigned the circle button. It is a bit confusing at first, but after a while, it becomes second nature.

The Mark of Kri might not be the best or most original game in the world, but it's still a must-play for any diehard hack n' slash fan. Its unique blend of artistic storytelling and brutal, hand-to-hand combat makes it a true hidden gem on the PlayStation 2. It's a shame so many people overlooked the title when it first debuted in 2002. Luckily, The Mark of Kri is available on the PlayStation Store for people who may have missed out on Rau's epic adventure.

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