Potential fatal glitches prevent Dead Space 2 from taking its place among the Gods of Horror
Gameplay: More of the same from the first game. The only new elements are the use of a jet boosters in zero g allowing for more movement in zero g areas, and the occasional dodge the debris action scenes. However, much appreciated the more tedious mini games from the first game were removed. However, this is DS 2 weakest area due to glitches, that can potentially prevent you from continuing the game without back up saves. How can such a heavily anticipated, well backed (EA) game be put out with flaws like missing controls to move on, or necromorphs running in place. Even the original did not have any major issues that I am aware of. 3/10
Difficulty: Overall the game is not too bad in this regard, but I do feel that potentially the beginning and the last two stages are really skewed in terms of difficulty. It is pretty easy to blast few the majority of the game, especially on lower difficulties, but swarms of necromorphs just jump to such an extent, someone who is not properly rationing maybe in trouble. 8/10
Atmosphere/Graphics: This game is very sharp, playing on an HD tv shows crisp details and design, in particular Issacs's various rigs. Just wait until you pick up the elite suit. If looks could kill. But atmopshere is where this game really excels, with in my honest opinion it rivaling the very first bioshock and Remake. The first game was hampered by being primarily played in one location, which incidentally you get to play through in the sequel, but larger space to work with really allows from more variety. The school is a particularly creepy setting, as is the return to the Ishimura. 10/10
Music: As a horror game, there really is none throughout the game except the ending. However, both of the songs played in the end are fantastic and importantly match the mood. One a somber classic piece, followed by a Linkin Parkesqe instrumental rock piece. I love somber music, and I love alt. rock.
10/10
Bonus/Replay: I do not like multiplayer so I did not try that. But the game offers plenty of replay value with different settings, new rigs on new settings, carryover of weapons, etc. 9/10
Overall: This game would be close to a perfect ten for me, but I just cannot overlook a glitch that almost forced me to quit playing the game 10 hours in, had I not had the foresight to hold multiple saves.