It’s time to return to the inFamous franchise for the second instalment in the series. inFamous 2 has a lot to live up to; its predecessor was a ground-breaking hit for critics and gamers alike. Fortunately new additions to the gameplay in this title, such as the ability to choose if you want to be the good guy or the bad guy and to build your own additional levels, make this new game infinitely playable. inFamous 2 may suffer from a few irritating bugs and unfortunately unbalanced combat in places, but these problems are minor and, on the whole, do not detract from what is a great sequel.
Storyline
The plot of inFamous 2 really does follow on from the previous game, so if you haven’t actually played that one you may want to get your hands on a copy before jumping straight into the sequel.
Once again you will take control of Cole MacGrath, a superhero imbued with a selection of electricity-based special powers. As the inevitable fight with the Beast prophesied right at the end of the last game draws near, you will swiftly become aware that your own powers are simply not enough to take on this foe. That’s why the retreat to the town of New Marais in South America is essential in your quest to up the power of your metaphorical punches.
Gameplay
inFamous 2 is a game with a bit of everything. It’s an open-world environment, providing you with plenty of opportunities to explore, even using your superhero-enhanced abilities to jump around the rooftops of the town. Melee and electrical attacks combine to provide you with a powerful arsenal that will certainly be utilised on boss fights in an entirely satisfying manner. Exploring and fighting are just two aspects of the gameplay to enjoy though; you will also need to make moral choices throughout the story. You yourself will have the option to complete certain quests as either a good guy or a bad guy; choices that will actually determine the eventual outcome of the game.
If you have played the first inFamous game then it really won’t take you long to get to grips with how this title operates. Game controls are effectively identical and just as smooth. Running around the rooftops is easily manageable, and combat controls are intuitive and definitely satisfying, despite occasional visibility issues caused by poor camera angles.
The main missions of the game are supplemented by many side quests. Working your way through both will have an effect on the world around you, as the streets will become safer with the more quests you complete. If that isn’t enough to keep you occupied though never fear, as the option to create your very own content to upload to the PlayStation Network adds serious longevity to this title. The user-generated missions won’t affect the overall plot of the game, but seeing new markers appear on the map as you download or create additional content is excellent.
Graphics
The gameplay of inFamous 2 may feel decidedly familiar, but when it comes to the look of the game it would be impossible to ignore the vast differences. This game really does look fantastic, with great animations and different neighbourhoods featuring a different feel. Even help messages will appear as spray-painted notes on the side of run-down buildings. All in all the graphics and impeccable sound work together to create an experience that is really immersive.
Conclusion
inFamous 2 might not be the ground breaking experience that the first title in the series offered, however it continues to improve upon that first game particularly well with stunning visuals, smooth gameplay and a compelling story.