- The next chapter in the story isn't quite as good as the first. I could spend a whole essay's worth of writing detailing why but its still amazing and that would do it an injustice because it still outshines almost any other game
- The environments don't quite feel as nice as the first (I prefered snowy Ìîñêâà[/spoliler]) BUUUT they are better designed to be traversable.
- The overall mechanics of the game were cleaned up and there are less times where you feel "well that was shody"
That being said it doesn't matter if you think you do or do not like story driven games, or if you think you prefer more open world ones, this game will show you clearly which one it is. This game is by far and away the best narrative driven story game that is on the market and, although (minor spoiler) its completely linear and has plot armour like nobodys' business its still a hell of a game to play.
Great story, good gunplay, really good mechanics and increadibly deep immersion. I was completly hooked and it will stay with me (although I did kinda binge play both games.)
Best way to play.Personally Ranger Hardcore was my favourate way to play. It doesn't seem like the hardcore gamemodes of other games like Halo and such where hardcore can be a bit of a slog, and I think that the enemy combat design (especially for the humans) is a little simpler. It also helps keep tension up.
In addition to this its a good idea to try to kill as little humans as possible because every level with humans in it is designed to allow you to sneak around them. This helps keep the thrill of the game going, also it kinda solidly makes you "not a bellend" in the game's eyes, because killing people is bad. Plus you should save your ammo for the creatures.
I also played the Russian dub rather than the English with the English subtitles. The dubbing work is great and if you want full immersion in the world this is a great way to do it (although I don't know what language it was origionally made in... my guess is Ukranian). Plus you can pick up a few phrases here and there, especially if you are a learner of the languge or want to.
Some friendly tips.If you like sadisticly working things out yourself then ignore this next bit. There are a few times where you get stuck. First off, cobwebs can be destroyed with your lighter. Secondly, wepons can only be picked up by holding the pick up button (e) and the game sometimes needs some... "encouragement" to actually do this. Thirdly, don't be too scared of having a walkthrough for if you get lost or going to forums to find out how you got stuck... this can feel frustrating but its worth it in the end.
Honestly, just buy it mate, its not worth deliberating in the comments, buy both games. I mean if you wan to wait for a sale then do but this game is DEFINATELY worth your money.
