Bloodlines 2 is Bloodlines 1 without skills, skill checks, different builds, diverse character building, mutliple ways to approach problems, endearing dialogue... I could go on. Needless to say, it's not like the first game. Are there things to like? Yes. Nice atmosphere, nice traversal with much verticality, detailed envoronemnts, good enough combat, and finally a nice hook for story. I have not finished it so I can't comment on the whole thing. The story reminds me of Still Life a bit too much. Why is that I wonder? All in all, it doesn't come close to the greatness of the original, but it's not completely worthless either if you like the setting. Approach with caution, wait for a discount.
I haven't played the original, but if you want a quick dungeon crawling fix this will provide just that. Runs well for me. Battle reminds you of Dragon Quest. No wonder of course as Wizardry inspired a lot of the early JRPGs.
It's good so far. Combat is rather basic but enjoyable, very stamina focused, the world is interesting to explore and good looking (heavy dark fantasy themes here) for a AA game (don't expect KCD 2 here) and the story has got a nice hook. It remains to be seen if all that holds true after 30-40 hours but so far I'm enjoying it.
Plenty to do and the DLC is very good.
Controls work right out of the box, the graphical update in 1 is great and keeps the atmosphere of the original intact. Most importantly you can switch between the two versions. Bonus cut content is available for those who want a glimpse on waht was cut.
