Interesting read. Let me first say that since I have played the single player version of KZ2 and maybe not to the extent that Mr. Shea has but nonetheless I have played it and I would say that I agree with a few things mentioned as potential improvements but would have to question most things mentioned. I will keep it short and sweet. KZ2 has been in development for quite some time and it shows. KILLZONE is a unique universe with it's own identity and from my limited play through there is not a FPS on the market today that feels this immersive, in fact there have been many comparisons made to COD4 and rightfully so. KZ2 does feel a bit like COD4 but truthfully KZ2 plays and feels better than any shooter on the market.
In the article Mr. Shea made mention that the weapons in KZ2 needed a bit more variety and kick, specifically the shotgun. I would say sure, Guerrilla make the shotgun louder and the flamethrower more effective but do they really need to? My opinion, the shotgun could be louder but the flamethrower is fine. Don't bother it. Watching the enemies die while in flames is awesome and it looks and feels real. The death animations are consistent with the death animations of the AI controlled ISA soldiers. They don't quickly die, they struggle to live as they sucomb to the flames. When you see it, it is impressive. A FPS could never have enough weapon options and KZ2 seems just fine. Please note that there are also gun placements and artillery pods you will use throughout so trust me when I say KZ2 has weapons a plenty.
Also, the characters in the KZ2 universe have unique personalities which is way it probably seemed irritating for Mr. Shea while playing when Cpl. Dante Garza kept yelling out wisecracks. That is what Cpl. Garza is known for. Be sure to read about the allies and protagonists of the KZ2 universe because if Guerrilla is pushing for an emotional connection for the player to experience then Guerrilla has already succeeded with Mr. Shea's irritation.
As far as the AI is concerned and I hate to say this but Guerrilla could revolutionize AI manipulation in gaming and someone would still find fault with it. This is one of those areas that biased and sometimes unfair reviewer will always take jabs at despite the fact that other games which have been rated in the high 9's struggled to do perfectly. I am not saying Mr. Shea is biased by no means however, the improved AI in KZ2 plays very well and I mean very well. I too hope that Guerrilla can bring newcomers up to speed on the universe of KILLZONE.
Despite the fact that many gamers who have experienced the original KILLZONE and KZ:Liberation are aware of the story, a clear understanding of why we are fighting and who we fighting would be great for newcomers. For those who have read this article please understand that Mr. Shea has not played 30% of KZ2 nor is he playing the final build. Lastly, for those gamers waiting impatiently for KILLZONE 2 don't worry this game is ridiculous!!!!!SGFShadowolf
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