Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus
" Visceral action shooter with adrenaline-fueled combat and stunning graphics but frequent technical issues "
Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus Review
Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus is a fast-paced first-person shooter that continues the franchise's tradition of intense Nazi-slaying action. Players appreciate the visceral combat, creative weaponry, and the game's bold anti-fascist message. The story is emotionally raw, featuring a protagonist grappling with trauma, though some find the narrative uneven and the characterization of certain figures, like Grace, polarizing.
Graphically, the game is praised for its stunning art direction, detailed environments, and strong voice acting. However, technical issues such as frequent crashes, performance hiccups, and bugs have frustrated many players. The level design is visually impressive but sometimes confusing and repetitive. While the game offers solid gameplay mechanics and memorable set pieces, its story and pacing divide opinion, with some criticizing its political tone and character writing. Overall, it remains an engaging experience for fans of action shooters, especially when purchased on sale.
Highlights
Players laud the game's visceral and satisfying gunplay, with weighty weapons and adrenaline-pumping combat encouraging aggression and creativity.
The stunning graphics and art direction vividly depict an alternate dystopian America, complemented by strong voice acting and an emotive soundtrack.
The storyline, though divisive, offers emotionally raw moments and bold anti-fascist themes, with memorable set pieces and a diverse supporting cast adding depth.
Fans appreciate the game's fast pace, unique level design elements, and the cathartic thrill of blasting Nazis in imaginative ways.
Criticisms
Common criticisms focus on technical issues, including frequent crashes, freezes, and VRAM problems that hamper gameplay.
The story and character writing receive mixed reactions, with some players finding it uneven, preachy, or politically heavy-handed, particularly regarding certain characters.
The level design is sometimes confusing, with poorly signposted objectives and repetitive layouts that frustrate exploration.
Gameplay balance issues arise from bullet-spongy enemies and difficulty spikes, while some feel the sequel falls short compared to its predecessor in terms of gunplay and mission variety.
Pros
- • Visceral and adrenaline-fueled combat that rewards aggression and creativity.
- • Stunning and detailed graphics with impressive art direction and environments.
- • Emotionally engaging protagonist with raw and compelling inner monologues.
- • Bold anti-fascist narrative addressing complex social and political themes.
- • Memorable and wild set pieces that keep gameplay unpredictable and exciting.
- • Strong voice acting and immersive soundtrack enhancing overall experience.
- • Diverse supporting cast adding depth and energy to the story.
Cons
- • Frequent technical issues including crashes, freezes, and VRAM errors.
- • Uneven and sometimes preachy story with polarizing character portrayals.
- • Confusing level design with poorly marked objectives and repetitive layouts.
- • Bullet sponge enemies and difficulty spikes that frustrate gameplay balance.
- • Lack of mission replayability and unclear progression in the hub area.
- • Some weapons feel dull or underwhelming compared to others.
- • Jerky player movement and awkward power-up mechanics affect immersion.
Rating Criteria
America, 1961. The assassination of Nazi General Deathshead was a short-lived victory. The Nazis maintain their stranglehold on the world. You are BJ Blazkowicz, aka “Terror-Billy,” member of the Resistance, scourge of the Nazi empire, and humanity’s last hope for liberty.
