This is one trip to the city you'll not soon forget.
You'll also notice the familiar setup. Choose from two different characters and head off into the zombie congested city. The controls are the same as in the first game, as you'll find the navigation difficulties may often lead you into the waiting arms of a creature. Yet, you can take comfort in the new arsenal that awaits you.
Claire and Leon will come across different weapons. This is because the two take slightly different journeys. And if there was any confusion of the story the first time through, playing as the other hero will fill in a few gaps. And this game is very much about story. From the beginning, you watch the opening scenes in amazement. RE2 gives you more of a movie-esque feel, and the cutscenes, acting, and voiceovers are MUCH better than the original. That said, you may find yourself scared or at least anxious throughout the first time playing the game.
Crows, dogs, zombies and spiders all make triumphant returns. Hunters were left out, to the delight of many fans. And the annoying monkeys from the boiler rooms were left to burn. The game does deliver one stand-out addition, though. They're called Lickers. The name hints at something far from its image, but it's a creature you'd have to see to appreciate.
Although the game doesn't deviate from its prequel much, it has plenty to offer. The characters and monsters seem more realistic, given it's a completely fictional horror game. The graphics are polished and the cutscenes assist the progression of the story. Even the boss fights are more satisfying. And, when you're done playing the game, you'll probably still have enough interest to stick around and try a new scenario. Like Empire Strikes Back to A New Hope, RE2 makes a great re-direction in the franchise, and, as we know, Capcom has yet to fail us with any of the majorly marketed RE games.