Castlevania: Lords of Shadow 2 (PlayStation 3) Review

Bringing Dracula into a modern setting is an interesting idea on paper, but the level designs are so typical and ordinary in Castlevania: Lords of Shadow 2 that so much of the time spent in this world feels incredibly boring. There is nothing to really take in and marvel at, as the over-used locations have been seen time and time again in other games. Research labs, sewers, car parks… Imagination is severely lacking.

Thankfully, the Prince of Darkness has many opportunities to explore the traditional Castlevania-styled gothic castle of Dracula, which is far more aesthetically pleasing. It actually feels like home; not just for Dracula himself, but for any player that has come here for a Castlevania experience. Whilst the game doesn't quite manage to achieve the sensation of being inside a 3D version of the classics, Lords of Shadow 2's accustomed setting is quite atmospheric at times, giving the notion that this is the right place for a vampire to be.

Flitting back to the historic abode is pleasing, but jumping into the present day only makes way for disappointment. For whatever peculiar reason, Dracula must use stealth to get through certain areas of the game - taking the form of a rat, of all things, scurrying through little tunnels, gnawing at cables, and sneaking past guards. In Dracula form, it is possible to distract some by unleashing a swarm of bats, but one mistake can prove fatal, where it is impossible to fight back if caught. The idea to make Dracula inferior and weak by standing no chance against a couple of guards (who are nothing compared to the bosses that can be fought), and forcing him to sneak about as a rodent, doesn't do anything to give the impression that the character controlled is an immortal vampire.

Lords of Shadow resembled the combat of God of War in more ways than one, and it really is no different in Lords of Shadow 2. Using Dracula's blood whip, it is a blatant hack 'n' slash affair - one that has lots of unlockable moves and combos, as well as a life-absorbing sword and shield-breaking fiery fists to cap off the two magic-utilising weapon styles. As with the first game, action fans should find enough to be pleased with in terms of fighting, and there are indeed a number of satisfying bosses to really test the combat skills.

Lords of Shadow 2 tries to make out it is some sort of open world title, but it is pretty linear when it comes to getting through the story. Some places may require returning to in order to pick up missed collectibles, but that is really the only core reason to do so - and even then, it is strictly for the sake of completion, as the game can be beaten easily enough by picking up the life and magic bonuses spotted on a first run through most locations.

There seems to be a big focus on giving a cinematic experience, though, with many cut-scenes and set-pieces featuring prominently. Sure enough, there is a runaway train sequence, complete with platforming and fighting on top of it, before it crashes and explodes. Like the modern city setting, there is a lack of creativity in such instances. The plot is ultimately substandard, and not quite up to par with the first game, leaving the end of the Lords of Shadow saga to be an underwhelming, but half-decent platforming hack 'n' slasher.