Ghostrunner 2
" Hardcore cyberpunk action-adventure with smooth combat and boss fights but severe performance issues "
Ghostrunner 2 Review
Ghostrunner 2 builds upon the fast-paced cyberpunk hack-and-slash foundation of its predecessor, offering slick movement, satisfying combat, and new gameplay mechanics such as parrying and a variety of ultimate abilities. The game introduces larger, more open levels and a hub world, expanding its scope and story depth with more character interactions. Boss fights have improved, providing more engaging encounters than the first game. However, many players report significant performance issues including frame drops, stuttering, and occasional glitches that detract from the experience.
While the graphics and soundtrack receive praise for their cyberpunk aesthetic, the game suffers from pacing problems, clunky level design, and some uninspired enemy encounters. The addition of motorcycle and wingsuit sections received mixed reactions, with some finding them fun and others considering them gimmicky and poorly integrated. Overall, Ghostrunner 2 is a decent sequel that offers fresh content but falls short of the original's tight design and polish.
Highlights
Gameplay mechanics such as the parrying system and boss fights are notably improved and satisfying. The combat remains sharp and engaging, with new abilities adding variety.
Graphics are visually stunning with a strong cyberpunk style and well-designed environments. The soundtrack complements the atmosphere effectively.
The story is more developed than the first game, featuring a wider cast and more world-building, though it is less serious and often humorous in tone.
Criticisms
Common criticisms include frequent and severe performance issues like frame drops, stuttering, and crashes. The level design is sometimes seen as too large and disorienting, interrupting flow.
Some gameplay additions, such as the motorcycle sections, are viewed as gimmicky and poorly executed. The upgrade system is considered bland and unbalanced, and the story presentation lacks depth and polish.
Additionally, collision detection bugs and janky controls affect player immersion and enjoyment.
Pros
- • Combat and parrying system feel smooth, satisfying, and well-implemented.
- • Visually stunning cyberpunk graphics with detailed environments.
- • Improved and more engaging boss fights compared to the first game.
- • Expanded story with more character interactions and world-building.
- • Variety of new abilities and ultimate attacks add gameplay depth.
- • Fast-paced and challenging gameplay keeps players engaged.
- • Hub world adds customization and social space for player interaction.
Cons
- • Severe performance issues including frequent frame drops and stuttering.
- • Large, open levels cause disorientation and disrupt gameplay flow.
- • Motorcycle sections are buggy, floaty, and poorly integrated.
- • Upgrade system feels bland, unbalanced, and lacks meaningful choices.
- • Story presentation is weak, with poor voice acting and humor attempts.
- • Collision detection bugs cause frustrating gameplay glitches.
- • Hub world slows pacing with repetitive backtracking.
Rating Criteria
Blood will run in Ghostrunner 2, a hardcore FPP slasher set in a post-apocalyptic cyberpunk future. Become the ultimate cyber ninja and prepare for epic boss fights, improved skills, an interactive story, new game modes, and captivating synthwave soundtrack.
