Before I start this review I would like to point out that this is for the console version of the game as the PC version is ruined by numerous glitches and the stupid DRM always online crap that has no benefit to this game at all. If this game is bought it should be for the console. Period.
The original game was a great idea slightly ruined by poor mechanics and a boring storyline. The game sold, highly, meaning a sequel was imminent and a chance for Ubisoft to redeem themselves. The setting is still brilliant, one of the best in any game. The renaissance period is bought to stunning life in Florence, Venice and other smaller Italian towns. It's about as close to an open world game as possible without being classed as an open world game. This time the modern storyline has been bought forward to the primary storyline which sees Oscar nominee Desmond Miles run from Abstergo to join the 'Indie' animus running company. This does introduce us to the greatest Assassin's Creed character ever; Shaun. Voiced by Danny Wallace, who looks like Steven Merchant on a windy day, who gives a hilarious voice over. I would forgive you for not finishing the story if you just listened to the hilarious insults Shaun throws at Desmond. You have no idea how much fun it is to hear Desmond being told to repetitively go away.
Another great character is born, the protagonist Ezio Auditore, who apart from being some sort of wealthy Assassins on one side is also a professional playboy, or Italian. Very similar things, easy to get mixed up. Instead of the obsession with stabbing minorities the last one had this one has an obsession with Ezio sticking his cock in everything. Even Leonardo Da Vinci, although by his voice and enthusiasm I would say he was up for it.
When Ezio is not checking out the local clunge (which isn't very often) he is participating in what is an exceptionally well paced story that doesn't drag on and become boring like the previous version and doesn't become a fast paced COD style campaign where everything happens at once. The ending isn't brilliant but does set up a sequel in not a very inventive way. Still, at least it isn't predictable like the last one. The missions aren't exactly very inventive but they are fun to play and all contribute towards the story in their own way. The side missions have also been improved, feathers are just rarer versions of those fucking flags but the puzzles are not complicated and fun to play. A nice little addition.
The problems of the last installment are no more. The stealth system has been improved as has the combat system although counter kill is still the way forward but boy does it feel sweet when you hit it. There are now a variety of enemies as well which means a minor strategy is required for some battles unlike the originals counter kill everything battles. The heavily updated engine also feels so much smoother and makes those viewpoints look even better. It does have its fair share of glitches though, probably worse than the first to be honest.
Although the game has fixed virtually all the problems the previous one has it has created some new ones. The Animus isn't that good as it constricts the map loosing the feeling of an open world. When killing civilians (as you do) a message pops up saying "Ezio did not kill civilians." I don't care if Ezio killed civilians or not, I do, especially those annoying lute playing bastards that don't bother anyone else, just you. Waiting round corners to ruin your day. The Jehovah's Witnesses of the Renaissance.
Overall Assassin's Creed 2 is everything the original should have been. Smooth gameplay, fun innovative missions and a great storyline. It is without doubt the best game of the series so far although Black Flag has a good chance of beating that. What Ubisoft managed to so with this title was take the original and improve every single aspect of it to create what is quite frankly a truly brilliant game.
The Christoforge Rating: 92/100
Favorite Quote: "I have plenty of outlets."
"Other than vaginas." - Maria Auditore to Ezio.
Favorite Moment: "Its a me Mario" - When Ezio first meets his uncle.
Worst Moment: What do you mean I have to collect all the codex pages to continue.
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