Mike Bantick
Thursday, 24 April 2008 19:04
Opinion and Analysis
Page 2 of 3
Players can pick up just about anything lying about to bash the p-jesus out of foes, from prosthetic arms to toilet seats, anything not bolted down can pretty much be used.
Condemned 2: Bloodshot however is more than just a mature rated beat-em-up. First there is the artistic style. The surreal structure will have players guessing what is 'real' and what could possibly be hallucination or delusion. The graphics phase in and out of crisp yet dark 'normality' and the more stylized grainy or overlaid look of Thomas trying to shrug off his alcohol reliance.
The story is presented in a mature way, though not deep, this is definitely one for an adult audience.
Another aspect that removes Condemned 2: Bloodshot from the run-o-mill fight games is the forensic angle. Driving the story line (along with occasional TV and radio reports), are question and answer segments as well as crime scene investigations to be carried out.
Using a couple of tools (camera, UV light and so on) Thomas will be tasked with successfully solving puzzles or inspecting the scene to upload his report to his at-base buddy Rosa. It is another game mechanic that works well, breaking up the unrelenting violence but without snapping the player out of the grim environment.
