From the archives: This story originally ran in PC Gamer (UK) #279.
Revisiting Crysis 2
In the realm of PC gaming, few titles have sparked as much debate as Crysis 2. While it stumbles in various areas—such as its simplistic AI, convoluted narrative, and clichéd characters—it also shines in one significant aspect: destruction. This game transforms New York into a canvas of chaos, offering a unique experience that can be more enjoyable than its predecessor when one embraces its theme of obliteration.
Players step into the shoes of Alcatraz, a U.S. Marine who quickly finds himself amidst a catastrophic alien invasion. Within moments, he witnesses the decimation of his platoon and is thrust into the role of savior, guided by Prophet, the nanosuit-clad leader from the original Crysis. Crytek recognized the allure of the nanosuit and built the narrative around its capabilities, positioning it as the true protagonist of the story.
However, the execution leaves much to be desired. The game reduces the suit’s functionality compared to its predecessor, limiting active abilities and relegating speed and strength to passive traits. This shift diminishes the potential for creative gameplay, as players find themselves unable to punch through walls or effectively manipulate objects during combat.
Despite these limitations, Crysis 2 offers moments of exhilarating gameplay. Players can utilize the cloak ability to stealthily navigate through enemy lines, but the real thrill comes from engaging in direct combat. By commandeering mounted machine guns and unleashing a barrage of firepower, players can revel in the visceral satisfaction of destruction.
As the story progresses, the cityscape of Manhattan becomes a testament to the chaos unleashed by the alien threat. Early scripted events, such as an alien ship crashing into a skyscraper, set the stage for a world in turmoil. The gameplay shifts dramatically as players regroup with the military, transforming the familiar streets into battlegrounds where the stakes escalate with each encounter.
The game’s standout moments occur during intense defensive missions, where players assist in evacuating civilians while fending off relentless alien assaults. The highlight, ‘Unsafe Haven,’ showcases the game’s penchant for destruction as players strategically demolish buildings to disrupt enemy operations. This gradual escalation of chaos serves as a compelling narrative device, mirroring the increasing desperation of the fight for survival.
However, the final mission disappoints, failing to deliver a climactic conclusion. The anticlimactic ending leaves players yearning for a more satisfying resolution, undermining the tension built throughout the game. While Crysis 2’s limitations on emergent gameplay are evident, it still contains glimmers of brilliance that should not be overlooked.
In the end, Crysis 2 stands as a complex title, embodying both triumphs and shortcomings. Its ability to create breathtaking moments of destruction amidst a flawed framework serves as a reminder of the potential for innovation in the gaming industry, even when the execution falters.
