Dishonored 2
" Immersive action game with unique powers and creative stealth, but some pacing and technical issues "
Dishonored 2 Review
Dishonored 2 is widely praised as a masterclass stealth-action game that builds upon its predecessor with enhanced mechanics, art direction, and player freedom. Players choose between two protagonists, Corvo Attano and Emily Kaldwin, each offering distinct powers and gameplay styles, enriching replayability. The game features intricate level design, allowing multiple creative approaches to objectives, and a reactive world where player choices impact story and environment.
While the story is generally appreciated for its depth and worldbuilding, some find it less compelling than the original, with criticisms of voice acting and narrative pacing. Technically, the game experienced launch issues, particularly on PC, but many bugs have been patched over time. Performance varies by hardware, with some players reporting ongoing difficulties launching or running the game smoothly. Despite these issues, the gameplay, art style, and stealth mechanics remain highly acclaimed, making Dishonored 2 a beloved title with enduring appeal.
Highlights
Gameplay mechanics receive high praise for offering immense freedom, creative powers, and multiple styles from stealth to combat.
The graphics and art direction are celebrated as painterly, timeless, and immersive, with unique worldbuilding and atmospheric environments.
The story and worldbuilding are noted for emotional depth, environmental storytelling, and meaningful player choices affecting outcomes and world state.
Criticisms
Common criticisms include a less engaging main story and antagonist compared to the first game, with some players finding the narrative heavy-handed or bland.
Technical issues persist for some, especially on modern PC hardware, including game launch failures and performance problems.
Some players find aspects like melee combat less enjoyable, and the voiced protagonists and dialogue direction less immersive than the original's silent approach.
Pros
- • Two distinct protagonists with unique powers enhance replayability and gameplay variety.
- • Intricate, sandbox-style level design encourages creative problem-solving and exploration.
- • Stealth mechanics are fluid, rewarding experimentation without feeling punitive.
- • Combat is sharp and responsive, supporting both stealth and aggressive playstyles.
- • Art direction is striking, painterly, and timeless, creating a memorable atmosphere.
- • Reactive world and chaos system make player choices impactful and meaningful.
- • Environmental storytelling adds depth and immersion to the game world.
Cons
- • Story and antagonist are less compelling and sometimes heavy-handed compared to the original.
- • Technical issues at launch and ongoing PC compatibility problems frustrate some players.
- • Performance can be poor or unstable on certain hardware configurations.
- • Melee combat and some abilities feel less satisfying or underutilized.
- • Voiced protagonists reduce player immersion for fans of the silent lead in the first game.
- • Some players find the game's pacing slow in early missions.
- • Collectibles and achievements may feel overwhelming or tedious.
Rating Criteria
Reprise your role as a supernatural assassin in Dishonored 2. Declared a “masterpiece” by Eurogamer and hailed “a must-play revenge tale” by Game Informer, Dishonored 2 is the follow up to Arkane’s 1st-person action blockbuster & winner of 100+ 'Game of the Year' awards, Dishonored.
