2K Games
The Darkness II certainly isn't a game for the queasy. It's a game full of violence, crude language, and a whole lot of action.
However, if you're one of the people who can get over those three hurdles, then you're in for a treat.
Continuing the story from the first game, you are put in the shoes of Jackie Estacado, who is now living life as a mafia don.
Predictably, things go sour very quickly.
After a frantic few minutes of fighting, Jackie is forced to once again call upon the powers of The Darkness to save his life, and his tale of revenge ends up with a massive body count.
The four-armed combat (which involves two hands and two demonic tentacles) is very satisfying, and there's nothing quite as satisfying as pulling off the various execution methods available to you. Personally, I found myself using the guns as little possible just to make sure I used my demonic powers to cause as much pain and suffering as possible.
The graphics, though not cutting edge, do work with the game, as the cell-shaded graphics fit because The Darkness II is based on a comic series.
The story is quite enjoyable, but I think may be a hit or miss with different people. I personally enjoyed the themes of loss and understanding Jackie's reasons for doing things, but some people may not be quite as impressed.
Multiplayer is fun too, as you step into the shoes of Darkness-enhanced killers that work for Estacado. The co-op element makes it fun as it allows you and your friends to romp through a number of levels and use your chaotic powers to full effect. If you enjoyed the mayhem caused in the single player, then you can imagine how much more fun it is to share in the carnage with your friends.
While The Darkness II isn't a particularly long title, it certainly is one that has its shining moments. It may not be a title that lasts very long, but it is one that should provide great entertainment for action junkies.
RATING: 4 out of 5
