Konami gave the PSP some early action with Rengoku, which offered up some interesting gameplay elements for a handheld title when it was first launched. The game however wasn't as well received as many would have liked and was seen as mediocre. Now Konami is going back to the drawing board and coming up with a new Rengoku title that is going to have a whole lot of new content and updated gameplay from the original. So get ready for Rengoku 2: Stairway to HEAVEN.

Features:

Explore eight expansive levels, with the first seven based on the Seven Deadly Sins.

Character design done by renowned visualist Jun Suemi
Customize A.D.A.M.'s weaponry, armor and accessories from more than 300 different rare and unique items.

Up to four players can play through local wireless connection.

Game sharing lets players wirelessly transmit content to other PSP system users who do not own the game.

Keep the quest alive with downloadable content, such as new maps and items.

Okay, so we all know that the first Rengoku game wasn't all that great, but it looks like Konami isn't done just yet. In Rengoku 2 you play as an android named ADAM. As ADAM your mission is to make it up all eight floors, seven of which are of the seven deadly sins. Even though the story is similar to that of the last game, HEAVEN has one recognizable difference: no more randomly generated levels, something that helped make the first lose the luster it could have had. Each level has recognizable and differential environments, unlike the first game where almost every level looked identical. Not only this, but the multiplayer offerings are going to be beefed-up as well. Now up to four players can have some android fighting fun using only one disc with the game-sharing feature.

The controls are also being looked upon as well. Now instead of the difficult D-pad-only movement, you will be able to use the analog stick for much easier movement. Also, you can use L2 to easily lock onto enemies and R2 to do a 360 degree turn. HEAVEN is going to use more evasive maneuvering than its predecessor did which could add some fun to the gameplay, which as of now, sounds similar to the last Rengoku game.

Another problem with the first game was the fact that the graphics were extremely bland. Almost every level looked the same and all other detail was extremely mediocre. The graphics now have a completely new look to them. Each level that has been shown so far has looked much more detailed and original than the first game's assortment. Texture detail has also been bumped up allowing for a not so pixilated view and better looking character models. Along with a frame-rate increase and reflection system, the graphics are shaping up to be much better than the first's.

Better graphics, improved level designs, lots of multiplayer, and over 300 weapons to enjoy it all with? Sounds like HEAVEN could really prove to be a lot better than the original. Rengoku 2 is set to release September 12th.