Tech Blog

[#1]

I'm a firm believer in Karma. What comes around goes around. Maybe that's why I find it so hard to do the devious deeds I'm tempted to do in inFamous 2. I hate street performers, yet I can't muster up the courage to electrocute one. And I can't stand by as the Militia escorts civilians in New Marais to their death. I always step in and play the hero. Unfortunately I know this means I'm missing out on half the fun that is to be found inFAMOUS 2.

The story picks up a few months after inFAMOUS with Cole MacGrath nearly dying at the hands of The Beast. Cole doesn't have the power he needs to destroy the molten-lava giant. To do that he must make the trip to New Marais, which sets the scene for this new adventure.

If you've played inFAMOUS then you'll have a slight advantage over everyone else. You can import your save data from the first game. How you did and whether you were "good" or "bad" will determine what bonuses you start with. I was given extra karma, XP and energy storage. It wasn't a huge advantage but it's better than starting from scratch.

You'll find New Marais is teaming with life. The streets are filled with locals many of whom will stop to take your picture. Of course if you're evil they will cower in fear and run for their lives. Interacting with these folks is how you'll increase your powers. Preventing muggings and abductions will not only boost your karma, but will also earn you XP to unlock more power-ups. Some of these side missions can be skipped to advance the main story but most players will want to see just how powerful they can become.

Cole not only has many of his ionic powers from the first game (some of which you must reacquire) but his powers will grow far beyond what you would expect. As he becomes more powerful Cole can summon an electric vortex from the sky, trigger lightening storms, even waves of ice. The results are incredible. The visuals which go into the animations are second to known. Watching Cole suck the life out of his enemies using the Ionic Drain truly is a thing of beauty! Okay, that's the evil side of me talking but it does give you a sense of true power.

I've played many superhero games and I have to admit inFAMOUS 2 is one of the few gems where you actually feel like a superhero (or supervillian). The controls are smooth, especially when it comes to scaling buildings and navigating the environment. Buildings are well designed, allowing you to grab onto almost any ledge to pull yourself towards the rooftops where it's much easier to travel.

The story is long and surprisingly deep. With more than 40 missions the game will keep you busy for 12 - 14 hours if you play mainly the story missions. If you're a completionist and like to do side missions you can tack on a few more hours.

The only glaring issue with inFAMOUS 2 would have to be the camera during combat. It can sometime act up. If you're next to a wall and you get attacked I found the camera can sometimes turn, giving you a view through a solid wall. Essentially you're blinded not knowing which way to turn the camera to correct the problem. This happens quite frequently resulting in some unfavorable outcomes.

Overall inFAMOUS 2 is a very enjoyable experience. Imagine, a superhero game which makes you feel like a true hero. It does exist! The controls are seamless and the powers you acquire are second to none. Yes there are some camera issues during combat but it doesn't take away from the overall enjoyment you will get from playing this PS3 exclusive title. If only all superhero games felt like inFAMOUS 2.

Now if only I could cut loose and kill a few street performers. Just one wouldn't hurt...would it?

The Good

Excellent controls
Amazing ionic powers
Detailed environments

The Bad

Camera can act up during combat