I've just recently got into ZOE and I want to see all of the story. I just beat ZOE2 and I have the anime, so I was considering playing ZOE1. I've heard that the gameplay of 2 is vastly different (and better) than the first one. Since I just want to understand the story, is watching the summary on ZOE2 good enough? Or would I be missing out if I don't play the first one?

do you even have the first one?
cuz if you do, it would be a waste NOT to play it ... let alone beat it

but my answer would be YES
PLAY IT and never let go XD jk
yes play it if you will

Well, That depends on how you will be entertained by ZOE1...

I would suggest going to Gamespot.com or other similar places and watch reviews and previews of ZOE1, That's what you're supposed to do everytime you want to buy a game.

Chances are you might not like ZOE1 because its not as "Fast-paced" as ZOE2 or maybe because it's just... boring.

I liked ZOE1, But not loved... You might have a different taste. Yes ZOE2 is better than ZOE1 in many ways, But if you're in it for the story... Then go for it.

EDIT
profecional reviews are stupid, sometimes they just hate on the game and make racist comments about games to make them look bad, when they are actually good
nothing beats a good'ole personal opinion...
i suggest you get some info on wikipedia, watch gameplay videos
BUT if you're still curious go see some stupid review ┐(-｡ｰ)┌

to be honest, i like ZOE1 over 2nd runner
there are lotsa stuff i like about it more

Fine then don't watch a dumb review, watch it in mute

Or go to youtube.com and watch gameplay vid's, do whatever you want >.>

Oh and just to point out, My previous comment was a personal opinion.

Just play ZOE1. Why shouldn't you?

Thank you for all of the replies everyone. My question is less about the game play and more about the story though. Does the summary video on ZOE2 do a good job of summing of ZOE1, or are a lot of details left out?

It does a decent job of summarizing what basically happened (the Antilia Raid) in the first game.

However, yes, a lot of details are left out, and it isn't in-depth at all.

Thanks a lot ADA, I might be able to get it from a friend. By the way, I like your sig.

yeah he has a cool ass anime signature *jealous* D=
i want a hawt anime pic for my sig too =3 (OFF TOPIC OFF TOPIC)