Assassin’s Creed 2 – Review
Review by Cassam Looch
ALTHOUGH the first Assassin’s Creed game had a lot going for it, the commercial success did outstrip the critical response.
A fun and visually stunning game, it did still leave the player as more of a passive observer for certain sections with certain ‘shortcuts’ leaving it incredibly easy to navigate around.
I’m pleased to report that this sequel is a considerable improvement. It’s been trailed for a while with the short movies coming out a few weeks ago and causing something of a mild stir. Find out more
I suspect the producers would have anticipated a bigger response, but I think most gamesplayers would have been waiting to see how the game shaped up before passing judgement.
It really wouldn’t have been any good to have a compelling and well-produced cinematic treat if the game turned out to be a dog.
Instead, the complete experience is fantastic, with the story having progressed the action to a great new location. The detailing is superb with the gameplay having improved to a highly sophisticated level. It’s not just fun, but also compelling and welcomes repeat visits.
It appears to have longevity as well, and combined with the outstanding graphics this game is one of the Christmas big-hitters that genuinely lives up to the hype.
About the Game:
Renaissance Italy isn’t the usual sort of setting for a video game, but then Assassin’s Creed isn’t one to play by the rules. Ezio Auditore di Firenze is yet another ancestor of modern day Desmond Miles – a nobleman out to avenge the death of his family in the guise of a shadowy assassin.
Like the last game, you’re given total freedom to explore multiple cities, but with greatly improved parkour skills and the new ability to swim.
There’s also a lot more variety in the missions you undertake – the main complaint with the original game- so you’ll never feel you’re just doing the same tasks over and over again.
Combat has also been completely overhauled, with dozens of different weapons and a new health system. With no less than Leonardo da Vinci acting as your very own Q-style gadget master, this stunning sequel improves on every element of the original.
- Renaissance man: Play as an all-new character in 15th Century Italy, with new abilities, new weapons and a whole new world to explore.
- The spice of life: Massively improved mission variety, with new freeform mission structures and many more random events.
- Tools of the trade: All-new combat system lets you steal weapons from your opponents, use dual hidden blades and even an early form of pistol.
- Real history: Meet historical figures such as Leonardo da Vinci, Niccol Machiavelli and Lorenzo de’ Medici, all of whom can offer you their own unique brand of aid.
- Tourist spots: Explore real world locations including Rome, Venice, Florence and Tuscany, as well as specific landmarks such as the Grand Canal and St Mark’s Basilica.
Formats: PS3, X360, PC
Release Date: 20/11/2009 (PC release date TBC)
Publisher: Ubisoft