Bioshock 2 out today - Anyone playing yet?

[GodlessAstronomer]

As I recall, there was a great deal of moaning from certain members of the gaming community about Half-Life 2 when it came out. "It's no where near the original".... "They lost the story".... Jeez. Come on.

As I remember it, HL2 had almost universal acclaim, even from the community.

 

[Modular]

Whatever. Some people like it, some don't. What I don't understand is why a few who keep posting in this thread won't stop talking smack about the game. You didn't like it...we get it.

I felt that it was great. I played it day after day until I completed it. Now, I haven't played it a second time as I've had tons of other games to go through, but I might before I pickup #2.

 

[coloumb]

Whatever. Some people like it, some don't. What I don't understand is why a few who keep posting in this thread won't stop talking smack about the game. You didn't like it...we get it.

I felt that it was great. I played it day after day until I completed it. Now, I haven't played it a second time as I've had tons of other games to go through, but I might before I pickup #2.

NNNEEEERRRRDDDD RAAAAAAAGGGEEEE!

Between ME2, Stalker, and Bioshock 2 - I'm having a hella good fun time.

 

[AndroidVageta]

Well, just finished it...definitely a better ending than the first, however, my review on it still stands. Still feels like Ive played it all before and it really brought nothing new to the series. Meh, lesson learned. Dont play sequels to games that never really called for one lol...those who havent gotten it yet, play it sure, but wait for it to go on sale on Steam or wait for a price drop. Even though it got better in like the last hour of game play, still not worth the whole retail price.

 

[SuPrEIVIE]

I have not played the game yet but it sounds disappointing that the state of rapture seems more or less the same as the first Bioshock(could be wrong), from the ending of the 1st, aside from splicers and other mindless idiots corruption is pretty much taken care of with the fall of Fontaine unless the character you controlled becomes wicked. Don't know what the canonical direction is but if its positive and this is 10 years later i would assume things would have improved...

 

[Rezident]

Pretty disappointed with this at the start after being amazing by the first one. Just got to Ryan Amusements and it’s starting to pick up. Obviously not as original as the first time so the magic is somewhat gone but the gameplay actually feels better than the first.

Wish I could fix the mental mouse lag and the motion sickness though. Is there any way to fix motion sickness in a game? I don’t get it any other game.

 

[warcrow]

Beat the game last night and I deffinitely have a lot of thoughts I need to flesh out so I can type up a conclusion.

But really quickly I want to ge this off my chest: There is an annoying bug in the PC version of Bioshock 2 that was almost a show stopper.

The Q key is used to rotate through the various plasmids that you currently have equiped and on many occasions--my entire left arm (the plamid one) was locked. So switching between or firing plasmids--completely frozen.

The first few times this happened I chalked it up to gameplay, and figured the game was making this happen for narrative reasons, but I soon realized it was a severely disabling bug. I resolved it at times by either reloading from an old save, completely reloading the game, or by a in-game cinematic moving on to a new level.

Honestly it wasnt that big of a deal until the game's finale. I won't spoil anything with the details, but I will say that I completed the final level of the game without using a single plasmid. I stood there, partially disabled, battling against the odds. It was almost fitting to my adventure.

 

[warcrow]

Bioshock 2 is an interesting game isnt it? It stands in a tough spot following in the footsteps of what some people consider the greatest first-person shooter to come along in years. But even more interesting is I find that the group that hearily embraced the original, holding it high above their heads mightily exclaiming to the world "See! This is was happens, world, when you accurately marry compelling art with a quality gaming experience!" are now the ones turning their backs to it's sequel unwilling to listen to the story it wishes to tell. But really, who can blame them right? How is it possible that an interesting and compelling experience could come out of Rapture after the first? Well truth be told, I'm a little bit of a hypocrite as I initially found myself in that very group thinking those same things.

After some thought, though, I realized that I wasnt giving the game a fair chance--I might be missing out on something I could love. I'm happy to say that I come away from playing Bioshock 2 through to completion (roughly 12 hours) feeling fulfilled. Certainly I'm a traiter right? Well all I can do is write what I feel about the game and hope that you can take something away from that that's beneficial.

In short, I've come to the conclusion that Bioshock 2 is--through a few unfortunate misteps--an really good game. Hold your tomatoes please! To keep things completely spoiler free I won't go into any of the plot of gameplay revelations, but what I will do is tell you confidently that I found the narrative--and the way it unravels--interesting enough to keep pushing forward, but it goes without saying that it's not nearly as interesting as the original.

I found the gameplay to be more intense and more enjoyable than the original, and this surprised me. I think the ability to duel weild a plasmids and a weapon heightens the intensity of the action to a new level. In addition there are more splicer attacks who're coupled with thicker skin and more powerful attacks (at least it appears that way to me) making it a welcome step-up from the first.

Personally I had the most fun utilizing the Hypnotize plasmid. At first it just turns other foes against one another--which in itself is extremely entertaining--but eventually you can upgrade it to the point where you can recruit splicers for a few minutes--even the bigger foes! At several points in the game I found myelf surounded by two hacked drones along with, my favorite victim, one of the Houdini Splicers (teleporter who throws explosives). Sending them into a room full of splicers was so incredibily entertaining. I watched the AI try to figure out how to kill itself quite amusing, especially with the little aggrogant taunts they spout out from time to time.

But what Bioshock 2 doesnt have, unfortunately, is the same quality of level design through and through. The magic that the first retained throughout the entire experience just isnt here. Bioshock 1 was defined by it's areas, their unique arcitechual design and aesthetics. Overall it was extremely memorable with fascinating points of interest. I fondly look back on areas like the Medical Pavilion run by the demented and insane Dr Steinman, the fishing port of Neptune's Bounty, the Farmers Market, or how about Rapture's entertainment center Fort Frolic? For me, Bioshock 2 really only has one area runsalong the same line as those, and that's in Ryan Amusements. I'll hold off on the details of why it's so interesting but let's just say it's a pivitol moment in the game's narrative truely revealing how arrogant and messed up Ryans practices were. It's a shining example of what a good segement of a game should be comprised of--a solid characteristic that's unique to the narrative and overall plot of, not just the game, but the Bioshock series. Plus it had a purpose in terms of gameplay amd it was fun to play around in.

Unfortunately most of the other levels--including Siren Alley (the Red Light District), which was a missed opportunity--are much too similar in terms of aesthetic and architectual design. But I must point out that this is not to say that the levels are badly designed or even a bore to play through, but just to bring to light that they're not on par with the original. That whimsically melancholly Bioshock spirit is missing!

In regards to the plot, once I found out what was going on--and yes it's revealed why you're a Big Daddy who's as weak and vulterable as he is,especially in comparison to the ones in the fist game--it all came together nicely. It's certainly not as interesting or inspired as the original game.

Conclusion
Bioshock 2 is a really fun game, but I think that in order for us hardcore to enjoy the intended crafted experience it has to offer then I think we need to come back down to earth (heh) a little. We need to realize that this isnt the first game's experience where we're experiencing Rapture and all its glory for the first time--which, honestly, is the very best part of the first game. But Bioshock 2 is an unpretentious attempt to expand on Rapture lore, and you know what? In the end I respect it for trying to nicely progress in the complexity of Rapture, but most importantly I respect it for being, overall, a fun video game to play--because that's what it does best.

 

[tyler811]

Bioshock 1 I gave 80/100, I thought it was an awesome game with a great story ine and graphics. The only thing I did not like about was no multi player or co-op rather thru the game. I di replay it 6 times and I am replaying right now while I play 2.

2 I do not know about yet. I like the graphics and the new charactors. I like being able go underwater (leaves more to discover) and the B.D/L.S. connection just makes it last all the longer.

I must be missing something because the FOV on widescreen does not bother me. The controls leave a little to be desired but I am getting use to them. I like how they left the same things in (camera, hacking and others) but made them different. I think the story is going to go along the same route as saving the L.S. in the first one. I have not killed any little sisters nor

Spoiler

the signer in the night club.

Now what really pisses me off is the GFWL bullshit. I bought a 4 pack for all my computers in my house. I downloaded all 4 without a hitch. Installed my copy and played after the usual GFWL updates. No problems there.
Downloaded and put in my sons pc with GFWL without a problem. He goes to play and nothing but the little Bioshock2 emblem and kaput. I researched for an hour and found nothing. Finally I updated his chipset, video and sound drivers but still nothing. I looked at my computer updates and then his. I noticed I had all the Microshit Netframe stuff and he none because it is on the optional list if you do not have it. So I installed those and still nothing. I checked for updates and found a shitload for Framework 3.5. Downloaded and installed and BOOM it fired up. I think that has to do with GFWL, I think but I could be wrong.

Multiplayer looks sweet but the fucking lag is horrible. It reminds me of playing Q3 on dial up. I have a 10 down and 1 up connection and only me playing online but I am still bebopping around the screen like I am speed and crack with some LSD thrown in for the hallucinations. No co-op and no lan settings really piss me off.

 

[slag]

I've been playing this game and Mass Effect 2 on and off and while both are fun to play, ME2 pulls me in more (at least at this point). I'm not very far in BS2, just got the 50 cal gun, but its not as fun as ME2 is.

 

[Rakewell]

Bioshock 2 is an interesting game isnt it? It stands in a tough spot following in the footsteps of what some people consider the greatest first-person shooter to come along in years. But even more interesting is I find that the group that hearily embraced the original, holding it high above their heads mightily exclaiming to the world "See! This is was happens, world, when you accurately marry compelling art with a quality gaming experience!" are now the ones turning their backs to it's sequel unwilling to listen to the story it wishes to tell. But really, who can blame them right? How is it possible that an interesting and compelling experience could come out of Rapture after the first? Well truth be told, I'm a little bit of a hypocrite as I initially found myself in that very group thinking those same things.

After some thought, though, I realized that I wasnt giving the game a fair chance--I might be missing out on something I could love. I'm happy to say that I come away from playing Bioshock 2 through to completion (roughly 12 hours) feeling fulfilled. Certainly I'm a traiter right? Well all I can do is write what I feel about the game and hope that you can take something away from that that's beneficial.

In short, I've come to the conclusion that Bioshock 2 is--through a few unfortunate misteps--an really good game. Hold your tomatoes please! To keep things completely spoiler free I won't go into any of the plot of gameplay revelations, but what I will do is tell you confidently that I found the narrative--and the way it unravels--interesting enough to keep pushing forward, but it goes without saying that it's not nearly as interesting as the original.

I found the gameplay to be more intense and more enjoyable than the original, and this surprised me. I think the ability to duel weild a plasmids and a weapon heightens the intensity of the action to a new level. In addition there are more splicer attacks who're coupled with thicker skin and more powerful attacks (at least it appears that way to me) making it a welcome step-up from the first.

Personally I had the most fun utilizing the Hypnotize plasmid. At first it just turns other foes against one another--which in itself is extremely entertaining--but eventually you can upgrade it to the point where you can recruit splicers for a few minutes--even the bigger foes! At several points in the game I found myelf surounded by two hacked drones along with, my favorite victim, one of the Houdini Splicers (teleporter who throws explosives). Sending them into a room full of splicers was so incredibily entertaining. I watched the AI try to figure out how to kill itself quite amusing, especially with the little aggrogant taunts they spout out from time to time.

But what Bioshock 2 doesnt have, unfortunately, is the same quality of level design through and through. The magic that the first retained throughout the entire experience just isnt here. Bioshock 1 was defined by it's areas, their unique arcitechual design and aesthetics. Overall it was extremely memorable with fascinating points of interest. I fondly look back on areas like the Medical Pavilion run by the demented and insane Dr Steinman, the fishing port of Neptune's Bounty, the Farmers Market, or how about Rapture's entertainment center Fort Frolic? For me, Bioshock 2 really only has one area runsalong the same line as those, and that's in Ryan Amusements. I'll hold off on the details of why it's so interesting but let's just say it's a pivitol moment in the game's narrative truely revealing how arrogant and messed up Ryans practices were. It's a shining example of what a good segement of a game should be comprised of--a solid characteristic that's unique to the narrative and overall plot of, not just the game, but the Bioshock series. Plus it had a purpose in terms of gameplay amd it was fun to play around in.

Unfortunately most of the other levels--including Siren Alley (the Red Light District), which was a missed opportunity--are much too similar in terms of aesthetic and architectual design. But I must point out that this is not to say that the levels are badly designed or even a bore to play through, but just to bring to light that they're not on par with the original. That whimsically melancholly Bioshock spirit is missing!

In regards to the plot, once I found out what was going on--and yes it's revealed why you're a Big Daddy who's as weak and vulterable as he is,especially in comparison to the ones in the fist game--it all came together nicely. It's certainly not as interesting or inspired as the original game.

Conclusion
Bioshock 2 is a really fun game, but I think that in order for us hardcore to enjoy the intended crafted experience it has to offer then I think we need to come back down to earth (heh) a little. We need to realize that this isnt the first game's experience where we're experiencing Rapture and all its glory for the first time--which, honestly, is the very best part of the first game. But Bioshock 2 is an unpretentious attempt to expand on Rapture lore, and you know what? In the end I respect it for trying to nicely progress in the complexity of Rapture, but most importantly I respect it for being, overall, a fun video game to play--because that's what it does best.

Excellent review, thanks-

I'm about halfway through the game. I, personally, like it a great deal... but it will never be as good as the first.

 

[warcrow]

Thanks Rakewell.

For what it's worth, I summarized everything I've written in this thread on my blog for those that are interested:

http://eat-games.blogspot.com/2010/02/bioshock-2-is-interesting-game-isnt-it.html

 

[Alienwho]

I've been playing for an hour, just got to the amusement park and i'm not really impressed yet. Feels exactly the same as the first bioshock, which I got bored with half way through and never finished.

btw people with widescreen, I spent my entire first hour playing the game, but feeling like I couldn't actually see what was going on. Turns out the developers are lazy and didn't include proper widescreen support. Follow these instructions to fix that and make the game much more playable:http://www.hardocp.com/news/2010/02/10/bioshock_2_widescreen_fix/

 

[warcrow]

Thanks for that link.

 

[AyashiKaibutsu]

Pretty disappointed with this at the start after being amazing by the first one. Just got to Ryan Amusements and it’s starting to pick up. Obviously not as original as the first time so the magic is somewhat gone but the gameplay actually feels better than the first.

Wish I could fix the mental mouse lag and the motion sickness though. Is there any way to fix motion sickness in a game? I don’t get it any other game.

Usually, it's the developer setting the fov all wonky that causes motion sickness. Sometimes you can change that stuff in the config file, don't know about bioshock 2 though. mouse lag/poor control due to consolization probably not fixable.

 

[Highmodulus]

I really liked BS1, and despite some concerns going in ended up really enjoying BS2. Turns out abusing splicers with the fire plasmid never gets old.

 

[PhatoseAlpha]

Oh, the wind trap one is much more fun, especially at level 3. Not as effective - for that matter, nothing seems to work as well as lightning or ice and a drill - much so much more amusing.

Surprising just how far that thing launches em, really, especially in rooms with tall ceilings.

 

[coloumb]

Unfortunately most of the other levels--including Siren Alley (the Red Light District), which was a missed opportunity--are much too similar in terms of aesthetic and architectual design. But I must point out that this is not to say that the levels are badly designed or even a bore to play through, but just to bring to light that they're not on par with the original. That whimsically melancholly Bioshock spirit is missing!

The levels [areas] have a multiplayer level feel to them - huge open areas with connecting passages. Levels in Bioshock 1 seemed to be designed around single player experience. Perhaps this is due to more splicers running around during certain events [when little sister is gathering up adam from an "angel", when you battle a big sister, etc]. I haven't tired multiplayer yet - but I wouldn't be surprised to see the same level design and/or areas.

Supplies/Ammo/Etc - I'd say there is a lot more [I'm finding a lot in the trashcans]. I stopped counting how many times I couldn't loot money, fuel, ammo, etc due to inventory limit for that specific item [Medical supplies seem to be the only item I constantly need]

Hacking - definitely dumbed down, simpler, and less gratifying. It's way to easy to hack both security bots if you trip an alarm [not a complaint - I love having 2 security bots following me around ]

It would be interesting to hear what someone thinks of Bioshock 2 who has never played Bioshock 1.

 

[quadomatic]

I'm about 4 hours in or so, playing kinda slow, trying to get upgrades via research camera.

Trying not to read this thread in order to avoid spoilers.

 

[Modular]

There are no spoilers in the thread, so read away!

I should add that there are spoilers, but they are appropriately hidden with the "Spoiler" option being used the right way (for once). Kudos.

 

[totalnoob]

just finished and thought it was amazing. 10/10 I love the awesome effects you can get from various plasmid/weapon combos. The rocket spears are the greatest weapon ever invented. Nothing is more fun than hitting someone with one, then launching them with a cyclone trap and watching them spin through the air and explode. I did a bunch of experiments with cyclone traps. My favorite is shooting a proximity mine on the ceiling, then throwing a cyclone at the enemy's feet as they approach. They will fly straight to the ceiling then be blasted back down by the mine..dealing massive damage. It pretty much guarantees an instant kill on the brutes.

 

[slag]

Beat the game last night and I deffinitely have a lot of thoughts I need to flesh out so I can type up a conclusion.

But really quickly I want to ge this off my chest: There is an annoying bug in the PC version of Bioshock 2 that was almost a show stopper.

The Q key is used to rotate through the various plasmids that you currently have equiped and on many occasions--my entire left arm (the plamid one) was locked. So switching between or firing plasmids--completely frozen.

The first few times this happened I chalked it up to gameplay, and figured the game was making this happen for narrative reasons, but I soon realized it was a severely disabling bug. I resolved it at times by either reloading from an old save, completely reloading the game, or by a in-game cinematic moving on to a new level.

Honestly it wasnt that big of a deal until the game's finale. I won't spoil anything with the details, but I will say that I completed the final level of the game without using a single plasmid. I stood there, partially disabled, battling against the odds. It was almost fitting to my adventure.

when that happens, i hit the Z button to cycle the other way and it unlocks my plasmids

 

[Sheik Yerbouti]

I liked it, but thought it was a bit short, and for the freaking record, the music, the font, architecture style is NOT that of the mid to late 1950's but that of the 1920's - 1930's
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Art_Deco

I know it's a petty thing but damn, off by 2 decades.

 

[StinkyPinky]

Bioshock was above average imo...nothing more. I mostly enjoyed it but I certainly wont rush to get part 2. I'll get it for 20 dollars in a years time.

 

[bruce0916]

Just finished BS2 and quite enjoy it. It's worth for play and I give it 85/100. I also heard there are several endings depends on what you do when playing it.
Intend to play it again to get another ending when I am available.