POSTAL 2
POSTAL 2 Review
POSTAL 2 is a notorious first-person shooter released in 2003, acclaimed for its unapologetically offensive humor, chaotic gameplay, and dark satire of American culture. Players control the Postal Dude, navigating a fictional town through mundane errands that quickly devolve into violent, absurd mayhem. The game offers freedom to approach objectives non-violently or with extreme brutality, featuring a wide arsenal ranging from conventional guns to bizarre weapons like a cat used as a silencer.
Visually, the game is dated with clunky animations and stiff models, yet this rough aesthetic complements its irreverent tone. The AI is unpredictable but often glitchy, and bugs and crashes are common. Despite these flaws, its open-world design, dark comedy, and sandbox chaos have earned it a cult following. POSTAL 2 is divisive, praised for its boldness and criticized for tastelessness, but remains a unique, unforgettable experience in gaming history.
Highlights
Players praise POSTAL 2's open-world sandbox gameplay, which encourages creative chaos and offers freedom in mission approaches.
The dark, irreverent humor and satire targeting politics, media, and culture are standout features.
Gameplay mechanics like diverse weaponry, including unconventional options, add to the game's uniqueness.
Despite aged graphics, the variety of environments and interactive elements keep players engaged.
The game’s cult charm is enhanced by dry, deadpan voice acting and memorable chaotic scenarios.
Criticisms
Common criticisms include frequent crashes, numerous bugs, and glitchy AI behavior that can disrupt gameplay.
The graphics and animations are considered outdated and stiff by modern standards.
Some players find the humor juvenile, offensive, and politically incorrect to a fault.
The slow movement speed and lack of running option can make exploration tedious.
Repetitive tasks and unclear objectives sometimes lead to aimless wandering.
Pros
- • Open-world sandbox allows for creative and chaotic gameplay approaches.
- • Dark humor and satire provide a unique, provocative gaming experience.
- • Wide variety of weapons including bizarre and unconventional options.
- • Interactive environments with diverse zones keep gameplay fresh.
- • Dry, deadpan voice acting adds charm to absurd situations.
- • Freedom to complete missions non-violently or with extreme violence.
- • Cult classic status with a dedicated fanbase and mod support.
Cons
- • Frequent crashes and bugs can hinder progression and enjoyment.
- • AI is often glitchy and pathfinding is unreliable.
- • Outdated graphics and stiff animations reduce immersion.
- • Humor can be offensive, juvenile, and politically incorrect.
- • Slow player movement makes traversal tedious and slow.
- • Repetitive tasks and unclear mission objectives cause frustration.
- • Some players find the game too chaotic and lacking polish.
Rating Criteria
Live a week in the life of "The POSTAL Dude"; a hapless everyman just trying to check off some chores. Buying milk, returning an overdue library book, getting Gary Coleman's autograph, what could possibly go wrong?
