Crysis 2 Review for the PC
. Is playing a game like Crysis 2 for the storyline and character development like expecting substance in a Michael Bay film? Yes, but even a paper-thin storyline should serve to heighten the experience of a truly great action game. Crysis 2 is a lopsided experience; its impressive graphical presentation is ultimately undermined by a weak sense of purpose and poor storytelling. The question is, do the jaw-dropping visuals and the gameplay make up for this shaky foundation?
. The original Crysis was released exclusively for PC in 2007 and has since earned an infamous reputation for bringing even the most powerful computers to their knees. Graphically, Crysis was years ahead of its time. It’s easy to get carried away by the explosions and effects in Crysis 2 and overlook the myriad ways it doesn’t live up to the original Crysis. You can no longer customize graphical options from the menu beyond a few presets, which on a console is expected but for a PC title of this caliber it is almost unheard of.
. Destructible environments have also been nearly universally abandoned. Unlike the first game, trees and structures do not realistically disintegrate from gunfire or explosions. Many buildings and objects are destroyed in the game but these occurrences are usually part of scripted events. Only a few objects, like concrete barriers and cars, can still be destroyed. Crysis 2 also fails to improve in-game physics with this sequel. For Xbox360 and PS3 users this is acceptable because Crysis 2 is one of the most graphically advanced games on those consoles. A diluted and condensed version of 2007′s Crysis still makes for impressive console game. However, for PC users this is a giant leap backwards for the series.
. Any extended thought on the game’s plot will lead to frustration. When playing, it seems that entire segments of the game are missing because the storyline lacks continuity. There is so much wasted potential here, and it is disappointing that all of the technical horsepower behind Crysis 2 wasn’t used to tell a more interesting story.
. The fact that the core plot of Crysis 2 is cliched is only the beginning of its storytelling woes. The cliches could be forgiven if it weren’t for the poor delivery of the story in almost every respect. The music, graphics and gameplay come together to create a compelling package. These elements reflect a level of mayhem and urgency that doesn’t always extend to the dialogue. Mission objectives given between missions are often boring and lack meaning. The voice actors deliver these lines in a very over-the-top fashion that simply isn’t supported by the poor writing. Most missions seem to end with Alcatraz passing-out and begin with him regaining consciousness. The game has a meager cast of characters that can be counted on one hand, and the plot has more holes in it than Swiss cheese.
. Despite all this it’s hard not to enjoy such an action packed adventure. Smooth controls and gameplay that allow for stealth and aggression interchangeably keep the ten-hour campaign feeling fresh.
. A good sequel improves upon the original, trimming fat and playing to the previous entry’s strengths. Crysis 2 is more of a console-friendly re-imagining of Crysis than a sequel. EA has given console users an impressive looking game but they’ve sold their PC fanbase down the river in order to do it. Four-year-old gameplay, and an underwhelming story are not enough to distinguish Crysis 2 from the slew of FPS games being released.
Immersive – 6 – Poor storytelling prevents Crysis 2 from being memorable.
Technical – 8 – A technical marvel on consoles but in several ways a step backwards for PC users and for the franchise.
Value – 7 – High production values but anemic voicework, writing and a shorter more linear campaign than the original take their toll.
Average = 7/10
