Rajio
on
The Darkness is back in this refreshing sequel to the unique 2007 shooter we loved. Its got a lot in common with the original game but even more changes to take note of here. Unlike a lot of game sequels, this isn’t just a boring rehash of the same proven game. Digital Extremes and 2K games actually took the opportunity to rethink things. 2007 had a very different gaming ecosystem than 2012 and what was novel then wouldn’t have the same effect today.
To start with, the game-play is fundamentally different. This is a shooter ‘on rails’ relative to how open the original was and the emphasis with this sequel seems to be shifted towards fast paced arcade shoot-em-up action. This makes it a fundamentally different game-play experience than its predecessor despite having many superficial similarities, including the demon-tentacled game mechanics.
The Darkness 2 actually sits quite comfortably in that new niche and perhaps works better than the game would if i just adopted the experience of the original. It helps make all the action and violence more exciting and rewarding.
You won’t have to do too much dodging or avoidance of foes. This game has been distilled down to one thing. A vicious, gory rampage through organized crime and the occult. You’re rewarded to how creative you get and how adept you become at it but for the most part you’ll feel like an invincible monster, and revel in it.
The violence here does need mentioning. The game isn’t for the faint of heart. The game is bloody and graphic. With superb audio, its also very visceral. Its an over-the-top orgy of violence as people are torn apart. If you're squeamish about that sort of thing, this may not be the game for you.
Visually the game has wonderful stylization. The characters and overall design in the game carries a lot of personality. The cell shaded graphics help tie the game back to the comics the game is based on. Its a new look for the game series but it really helps.
The story isn’t too lacking either, which is a little surprising from an arcade action game though not surprising considering the comic origins of the franchise. Its solidly told and actually is actually relevant to the game, not just tacked on superficially. There is even a separate story for the co-operative game mode which augments the single player campaign’s story.
This isn’t a particularly long or challenging game, unless you’re an obsessive completionist looking for bonus unlocks. What the game is, is an action oriented blood-bath. Its simple and fun. It doesn’t try to be too many things. If you want to go on a rampage, taking delight in ripping your enemies to pieces then this is certainly the game for you. That is what this game offers and it does it quite well. While a lot of shooters make you feel vulnerable and seek cover, this one makes you feel like an unstoppably powerful demon thirsting for a fight which is, I suppose, what it wanted all along.
The Darkness II is currently available for Microsoft Windows, Xbox 360, and Playstation 3
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