First game was great, this one is better
For people that haven't played the first part: this is a modern entry in the classic survival horror genre.
When I say "modern", I mean improved visuals, sound and plays on modern systems. The mechanics are still straight from Silent Hill 1-4 and Resident Evil 1-3, which means fixed camera angles, sometimes weird controls and clunky combat. But it really revives the atmosphere of these games, the puzzles and the tension. Definitely worth it if you're a fan, and worth a try if you're curious about the old games but want something prettier.
For those that played the first one: this fixes practically all my gripes with the original, while being bigger, better and more varied.
The locations are the high point: more varied, detailed, some immediately recognizable from the RE/SH franchises (the school definitely being my favorite).
Same goes for enemies, although I think they took a slight drop from creepiness compared to game one. Not the bosses though - they are now really distinct with each one having a backstory.
There are multiple weapons that play differently, and you switch between them - or just grab the big sledgehammer and play the game like the other game with "Souls" in the title.
The story is still slightly convoluted, and has less mystery than the previous game - but it's also kind of hilarious if you know the first game's story. With, you know, events repeating themselves.
The puzzles are still very good, pacing is improved, pickupable items now have a glimmer.
For people that want to play both games in the series: this contains a big spoiler for one of the mysteries of the first game, but otherwise the previous events are barely mentioned.
And lastly, here's a wishlist for the next game/expansion:
- more Other Side please. Copying one of the best ideas about Silent Hill isn't a bad thing
- polish up the dialogues a little bit. And the NPC characters. I feel there was one of the supporting characters here that was wasted potential
- do nerf the shotgun
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