Dead Island 2
" Fast-paced action adventure with deep weapon customization but generic story and bugs "
Dead Island 2 Review
Dead Island 2 is a vibrant, fast-paced zombie slasher set in a quarantined Los Angeles, offering a mix of over-the-top combat, gore, and dark humor. Players appreciate the variety of weapons, skill cards, and crafting systems, which add depth to gameplay and encourage experimentation across multiple playstyles. The game features diverse environments and a satisfying gore system that dynamically reacts to combat.
While the story is generally seen as generic and uninspired, it serves as a functional backdrop to the action. Multiplayer co-op is enjoyable but limited to three players, which disappointed some fans expecting four. Technical issues, particularly related to Epic Games online services and occasional crashes, have frustrated players. Despite these flaws, many recommend the game, especially on sale, for fans of the genre or those seeking a fun zombie experience with friends.
Highlights
Gameplay mechanics such as the weapon customization, skill cards, and impactful melee combat receive praise for variety and satisfaction. The gore system is highly regarded for its detail and dynamic reactions to hits.
Graphics are consistently described as impressive, capturing a sun-soaked LA setting with vibrant visuals and atmospheric environments.
The storyline, while not groundbreaking, includes dark humor and campy elements that some players find enjoyable, especially when combined with the game's tone and setting.
Criticisms
The story and characters are often called generic, uninspired, and lacking depth, failing to engage some players. The gameplay can become repetitive over time, with limited enemy variety and recycled bosses.
Technical problems such as bugs, crashes, and issues with Epic Games online services, including forced launcher use and multiplayer connectivity limitations, negatively impact the experience.
Some players find the combat less satisfying compared to the original Dead Island, citing floaty attacks and lack of feedback. The game’s progression and quest design, including metroidvania-style locked areas, frustrate certain players.
Pros
- • Weapon customization and skill cards add depth and variety to combat styles.
- • Dynamic and detailed gore system enhances the visceral combat experience.
- • Vibrant, well-designed environments capture the LA setting effectively.
- • Fast-paced zombie combat is satisfying and enjoyable, especially in co-op.
- • Dark humor and campy tone provide entertainment alongside the action.
- • Diverse weapon types and mods encourage experimentation and strategy.
- • Good amount of content including main story, side quests, and DLCs.
Cons
- • Storyline and characters are generic, shallow, and uninspired.
- • Repetitive gameplay with limited enemy variety and recycled bosses.
- • Technical issues include crashes, bugs, and problematic Epic Games integration.
- • Multiplayer limited to three players, disappointing fans expecting four.
- • Combat sometimes feels floaty and lacks impactful feedback.
- • Quest design and progression can be frustrating with locked areas.
- • Some voice acting and sound design are subpar or off-putting.
Rating Criteria
A deadly virus is spreading across Los Angeles, turning its inhabitants into zombies. Bitten, infected, but more than just immune, uncover the truth behind the outbreak and discover who - or what - you are. Survive, evolve and become the ultimate Zombie Slayer.