There are a number of "command line" parameters that the game will accept, but unfortunately not on the actual command line nor by trying to use the file KAIN2.ARG, which has the default parameters used by the game. They are actually read from an area inside the KAIN2.EXE file. There are only 39 bytes that can be used. Be sure to backup KAIN2.EXE before editing this file. To find the place with a hex editor, search for some part or all of the following string:
under 1 -mainmenu -voice -inspectral
The first parameter should be a level name. This level will be loaded if the "Start A New Game" option is chosen on the Main Menu. See below for level names.
The remaining bytes can be used for parameters. If the -mainmenu parameter is not there, when the game is started, the first parameter level will automatically be loaded. The -inspectral parameter means Raziel will start a new game in the spectral world. It is not known exactly what the -voice parameter does as there are still voices in the game if it is not there.
The following string will open all portals. Also, when a new game is selected, it will start after the long beginning cut-scene and very close to the first portal. These cheats will not however allow access to all areas of the game because they do not grant any of the additional abilities or weapons needed to continue nor will they solve any of the puzzles which open locked doors.