Game Card
Killzone 2 (PS3)
- Publisher:
- SCEE
- Developer:
- Guerrilla
- US Release:
- 27.02.2009
- EU Release:
- n/a
- Number of players:
- n/a
- Type:
- Action
- Reality Factor:
- Science Fiction
- Perspective:
- First-Person
- Extra:
- Militaristic
- Blood Level:
- Bloody
- Age:
- Futuristic
Review
We play Killzone 2...
As a sequel, there couldn’t be any more pressure on Killzone 2. The importance for the game to deliver escalated towards the latter stages 2008, as Xbox 360 big-hitter Gears of War 2 showed the world what the machine, and certainly the team behind it, has to offer towards their console. With the original Killzone receiving a chorus of disgruntled taunts for every fond round of applause, the decision for Sony to establish the franchise as their spearhead into the new year has brought along critics in abundance. As the first catastrophically hyped PS3 game of the year, Killzone 2 can be used as a measure of where the troubled console is at, and certainly where it is going.
After the dawdling drip-feed since that E3 trailer back in 2005, it appears Sony took their foot off the gas in order to let the subsequent storm settle. With controversial arguments of what was and wasn’t in-game footage, the success of the game’s marketing underlined the fact that the console was faltering dramatically, and was shrouded with negative press regarding the companies initial failure to shift units. Over the past three years, new details have slowly emerged about Killzone 2, offering PS3 owners a delightfully delicious window into the game and how it operates. Suffice to say, the hype slowly gained momentum towards the end of last year as other titles made varying degrees of impact, and as Guerrila’s sequel was announced for a February 27th release. Slated by some for shying out of a battle with the competition, this date may allow Sony to gain a foot-up for the year ahead.
What’s astounding about Killzone 2 is, after the hype, the endless stream of videos and glorious screens, just how engaging it instantly becomes. We’ve all seen or played the first level, and yet, it still feels fresh and excitingly remarkable when you leave the demo and begin the full game. After the initial cut-scene where you meet your character, Sergeant Sevchenko, you’ll quickly learn that previous hero Jan Templar will be sitting out the assault on the under-fire Helghan territory. Joined by the familiar face of Rico, your squad enters the battle in cinematic style on those now iconic drop ships. Instantly, the scale of the game’s production values shows the stunning capabilities of the PS3, as you crash land on a currently engaged battlezone from hell.
Stepping off your landing craft for the first time, the sluggish nature of the game will be intensely apparent. Opting for a feeling of power and muscle, you’ll quickly understand that Killzone 2 is the complete opposite to the idyllic, weightless feel of the Call of Duty series and indeed, many other FPS games. Sev doesn’t possess endless amounts of stamina for sprinting, and labours under the weight of his armour like a real-life soldier. Even turning, a movement that is usually instantly responsive and swift, offers players a realistic bulk as it impressively gains a convincing sense of momentum. Although this unorthodox approach to videogames may feel disengaging at first, it’s quickly clear that this plays a massive part in what makes Killzone 2 so rewarding and ultimately, enjoyable.
Instead of trying to brainstorm a new and unsullied formula, Guerrilla Games must be commended for their efforts at reworking and moulding their vision of the FPS genre into an excellently unique, blockbuster style. The developers never try to open a new dimension (as so many games try to do nowadays), and stick to what they believe makes their products the best on the market. This is centrally focused on the intelligence of the AI you’re fighting against. Progressing through the game, the strategies used by the Helghast continue to evolve, ensuring the player always has to tactically seek out the remedy to the problems they sadistically bring to each scene. At the halfway point, you’ll encounter an important bridge that needs to be overrun by ISA forces, a premise of familiarity to FPS aficionados. Fortunately, the nerve and quick-thinking nature of the enemy allow this to be a tense cat and mouse affair, as the blood craving Helghans close in on your position and eliminate the threat of flanking by utilising their own soldiers effectively. Furthermore, the final level amounts to a spectacular showing of a war that is reaching its pivotal point, as the battle that ensues is one of the most breathtaking and exhilarating moments in the game, and more importantly, on the console. The sharp-eyed Helghast not only put up a tough defence, their passion for victory is on show via intricately calculated movements and strategies to eliminate the threat you possess. Just like the ISA, they fight for the cause they believe to be correct.
To match the intensity of the enemy, you’re treated to some superb gunplay and destruction effects. As you find out early on, Killzone 2 isn’t a game that lines up headshots for you with a tutorial that screams ‘Shoot here!’ In fact, apart from a brief set of instructions at the start, the game slaps your hand away in an authoritarian style that matches the upbringing of the Helghast troops. Guns are typically inaccurate and clunky, as you’ll have to work extremely well to destroy the ominous threats that loom round you. Kicking out a satisfyingly loud thud, the impact of bullets will bring a smile to the face of the most peace-admiring observer. The Helghast will react to every shot, checking patches where they have been hit and often running away in fear of a second, more deadly shot. Witnessing their panic is a strange feeling, as the otherwise emotionless clones act insanely tough and predictable. As the Helghast soak up the bullets with an inspiring splattering of crimson, their squad-mates will often clamber for cover or try a different method in order to advance and to save their life.
To coincide with the satisfaction of executing your enemies, the use of different guns gives Killzone 2 a tactical edge that many would have thought out of place or unneeded. Most of the game will be spent wielding a Helghast rifle, as their ammo is in the most supply. Just like the first game, the ISA equivalent is far more fun to use, although is often less efficient. Before you know it, bigger and better enemies will appear, meaning you have to call in some special support weapons. Be it the classic heavy MG that stands still ready to rip through impending targets, or the FEAR styled Bolt Gun (which penetrates and pins enemies to surfaces, before exploding), you are never far way from the glowing ammo re-stocks that allow for a hasty change in direction. With a few added (if unoriginal) surprises thrown in for good measure, then there is enough variation to keep the die-hard fans beaming a smile of sheer delight, and everyone else content with the sudden change of pace. Our favourite was the sniper rifle, which utilisises the Sixaxis controller to keep a steady aim, meaning a steady hand is vital for a successful shot.
Once you are used to the gripping gameplay, you’ll notice that there is a huge situation that needs to be resolved. Much like Call of Duty: World at War, the tide of the battle has turned, and the ISA are pushing the enemy desperately back onto their territory. Starting on the streets of Visari’s monochrome city, you’ll experience the grit and brutality of the Helghan nature first hand. The original Killzone was criticised for it’s bland colour palette and depressing greys, but the sleek sheen of the camera now makes these totally accessible. Lighting is both atmospheric and realistic, as you’ll notice huge differences from the devouring darkness of the city to the sand swept dunes visited later on. This is a major area where Killzone 2 would benefit further from greater diversity, as the game takes too long to change scenery, losing out to the wonderfully contrast underground glow in Gears of War 2.
As the story progresses the macho personalities of everyone apart from Sev and Templar come to light. Offering similarities between the protagonists of the series, you’ll quickly become accustom to the swearing and misogyny of the supporting cast. With average voice acting, the narrative does suffer towards the end, as the emotion of the characters quickly burn out like the fire in a fallen Helghan’s eyes. In situations of panic and fear, it seems swearing is the only way forward. While you’re character offers slight attempts to halt this onslaught of curse words, the foul-mouthed ramblings of Rico do add to the tension and drama for the most part. Unlike Gears of War 2 however, losing Templar as the main hero means that the bond between the squad isn’t as instantly poignant for players, as back-stories and history have to be announced throughout.
To back up the often-confusing happenings in the narrative, Killzone 2 boasts a superbly driven musical score. Similar to the styling of the original, the operatic excellence is even more inspiring than before. More so, combine this with the sounds and sights of the war zone and an inspiring blend of finesse and devastation is echoed right to the core of the game and any player taking charge.
With the story finishing after a mere six hours (give or take an hour depending on difficulty), the lack of co-op has been much discussed in the media. With the success of co-op titles like Resistance 2 and Left 4 Dead, it’s disappointing to see an almost vital omission for such a popular shooter. Trying to make up for this, Guerrilla has implemented a rewarding and brilliantly thought-out rank system for online play. Stealing a leaf from the golden tree of Call of Duty, perks are available to those who rank up and make progress. This comes in the form of additional guns and new avatars, as the game strives forward in an attempt to evolve from the slick online mode of its predecessor on the PS2. The online multiplayer is sure to become a massive hit for the PS3, as it’s as tightly knit and stunningly addictive as the rest of the game.
When it comes down to it, Killzone 2 is a sublimely crafted title for the PS3. It delivers on our expectations with a modest and intelligent twist on the overcrowded FPS genre. As one of the best looking games ever, it seems the power of Sony’s console is beginning to harness its true strength in a vital period for the company. As it stands today, this is the best reason to own a PlayStation 3 console, as Guerrilla Games’ hard work finally begins to pay off. The series has had its haters, but there is no doubting that if you don’t find enjoyment during this title, you never will.
Top Game Moment: The battle at the beginning of the final level is a real challenge and breath-takingly beautiful.
After the dawdling drip-feed since that E3 trailer back in 2005, it appears Sony took their foot off the gas in order to let the subsequent storm settle. With controversial arguments of what was and wasn’t in-game footage, the success of the game’s marketing underlined the fact that the console was faltering dramatically, and was shrouded with negative press regarding the companies initial failure to shift units. Over the past three years, new details have slowly emerged about Killzone 2, offering PS3 owners a delightfully delicious window into the game and how it operates. Suffice to say, the hype slowly gained momentum towards the end of last year as other titles made varying degrees of impact, and as Guerrila’s sequel was announced for a February 27th release. Slated by some for shying out of a battle with the competition, this date may allow Sony to gain a foot-up for the year ahead.
 |
 |
|
| Get used to these guys, you'll be seeing a lot of them | This is Sev, the new protagonist for the series |
What’s astounding about Killzone 2 is, after the hype, the endless stream of videos and glorious screens, just how engaging it instantly becomes. We’ve all seen or played the first level, and yet, it still feels fresh and excitingly remarkable when you leave the demo and begin the full game. After the initial cut-scene where you meet your character, Sergeant Sevchenko, you’ll quickly learn that previous hero Jan Templar will be sitting out the assault on the under-fire Helghan territory. Joined by the familiar face of Rico, your squad enters the battle in cinematic style on those now iconic drop ships. Instantly, the scale of the game’s production values shows the stunning capabilities of the PS3, as you crash land on a currently engaged battlezone from hell.
Stepping off your landing craft for the first time, the sluggish nature of the game will be intensely apparent. Opting for a feeling of power and muscle, you’ll quickly understand that Killzone 2 is the complete opposite to the idyllic, weightless feel of the Call of Duty series and indeed, many other FPS games. Sev doesn’t possess endless amounts of stamina for sprinting, and labours under the weight of his armour like a real-life soldier. Even turning, a movement that is usually instantly responsive and swift, offers players a realistic bulk as it impressively gains a convincing sense of momentum. Although this unorthodox approach to videogames may feel disengaging at first, it’s quickly clear that this plays a massive part in what makes Killzone 2 so rewarding and ultimately, enjoyable.
Instead of trying to brainstorm a new and unsullied formula, Guerrilla Games must be commended for their efforts at reworking and moulding their vision of the FPS genre into an excellently unique, blockbuster style. The developers never try to open a new dimension (as so many games try to do nowadays), and stick to what they believe makes their products the best on the market. This is centrally focused on the intelligence of the AI you’re fighting against. Progressing through the game, the strategies used by the Helghast continue to evolve, ensuring the player always has to tactically seek out the remedy to the problems they sadistically bring to each scene. At the halfway point, you’ll encounter an important bridge that needs to be overrun by ISA forces, a premise of familiarity to FPS aficionados. Fortunately, the nerve and quick-thinking nature of the enemy allow this to be a tense cat and mouse affair, as the blood craving Helghans close in on your position and eliminate the threat of flanking by utilising their own soldiers effectively. Furthermore, the final level amounts to a spectacular showing of a war that is reaching its pivotal point, as the battle that ensues is one of the most breathtaking and exhilarating moments in the game, and more importantly, on the console. The sharp-eyed Helghast not only put up a tough defence, their passion for victory is on show via intricately calculated movements and strategies to eliminate the threat you possess. Just like the ISA, they fight for the cause they believe to be correct.
To match the intensity of the enemy, you’re treated to some superb gunplay and destruction effects. As you find out early on, Killzone 2 isn’t a game that lines up headshots for you with a tutorial that screams ‘Shoot here!’ In fact, apart from a brief set of instructions at the start, the game slaps your hand away in an authoritarian style that matches the upbringing of the Helghast troops. Guns are typically inaccurate and clunky, as you’ll have to work extremely well to destroy the ominous threats that loom round you. Kicking out a satisfyingly loud thud, the impact of bullets will bring a smile to the face of the most peace-admiring observer. The Helghast will react to every shot, checking patches where they have been hit and often running away in fear of a second, more deadly shot. Witnessing their panic is a strange feeling, as the otherwise emotionless clones act insanely tough and predictable. As the Helghast soak up the bullets with an inspiring splattering of crimson, their squad-mates will often clamber for cover or try a different method in order to advance and to save their life.
 |
 |
|
| Destruction and death is never far away. At least it looks stunning, right? | If you're lucky, you'll pick up one of these bad boys |
To coincide with the satisfaction of executing your enemies, the use of different guns gives Killzone 2 a tactical edge that many would have thought out of place or unneeded. Most of the game will be spent wielding a Helghast rifle, as their ammo is in the most supply. Just like the first game, the ISA equivalent is far more fun to use, although is often less efficient. Before you know it, bigger and better enemies will appear, meaning you have to call in some special support weapons. Be it the classic heavy MG that stands still ready to rip through impending targets, or the FEAR styled Bolt Gun (which penetrates and pins enemies to surfaces, before exploding), you are never far way from the glowing ammo re-stocks that allow for a hasty change in direction. With a few added (if unoriginal) surprises thrown in for good measure, then there is enough variation to keep the die-hard fans beaming a smile of sheer delight, and everyone else content with the sudden change of pace. Our favourite was the sniper rifle, which utilisises the Sixaxis controller to keep a steady aim, meaning a steady hand is vital for a successful shot.
Once you are used to the gripping gameplay, you’ll notice that there is a huge situation that needs to be resolved. Much like Call of Duty: World at War, the tide of the battle has turned, and the ISA are pushing the enemy desperately back onto their territory. Starting on the streets of Visari’s monochrome city, you’ll experience the grit and brutality of the Helghan nature first hand. The original Killzone was criticised for it’s bland colour palette and depressing greys, but the sleek sheen of the camera now makes these totally accessible. Lighting is both atmospheric and realistic, as you’ll notice huge differences from the devouring darkness of the city to the sand swept dunes visited later on. This is a major area where Killzone 2 would benefit further from greater diversity, as the game takes too long to change scenery, losing out to the wonderfully contrast underground glow in Gears of War 2.
As the story progresses the macho personalities of everyone apart from Sev and Templar come to light. Offering similarities between the protagonists of the series, you’ll quickly become accustom to the swearing and misogyny of the supporting cast. With average voice acting, the narrative does suffer towards the end, as the emotion of the characters quickly burn out like the fire in a fallen Helghan’s eyes. In situations of panic and fear, it seems swearing is the only way forward. While you’re character offers slight attempts to halt this onslaught of curse words, the foul-mouthed ramblings of Rico do add to the tension and drama for the most part. Unlike Gears of War 2 however, losing Templar as the main hero means that the bond between the squad isn’t as instantly poignant for players, as back-stories and history have to be announced throughout.
To back up the often-confusing happenings in the narrative, Killzone 2 boasts a superbly driven musical score. Similar to the styling of the original, the operatic excellence is even more inspiring than before. More so, combine this with the sounds and sights of the war zone and an inspiring blend of finesse and devastation is echoed right to the core of the game and any player taking charge.
 |
 |
|
| Keep a steady aim with the sniper rifle, your every movement is taken into account | Expect machinery to play a huge part throughout |
With the story finishing after a mere six hours (give or take an hour depending on difficulty), the lack of co-op has been much discussed in the media. With the success of co-op titles like Resistance 2 and Left 4 Dead, it’s disappointing to see an almost vital omission for such a popular shooter. Trying to make up for this, Guerrilla has implemented a rewarding and brilliantly thought-out rank system for online play. Stealing a leaf from the golden tree of Call of Duty, perks are available to those who rank up and make progress. This comes in the form of additional guns and new avatars, as the game strives forward in an attempt to evolve from the slick online mode of its predecessor on the PS2. The online multiplayer is sure to become a massive hit for the PS3, as it’s as tightly knit and stunningly addictive as the rest of the game.
When it comes down to it, Killzone 2 is a sublimely crafted title for the PS3. It delivers on our expectations with a modest and intelligent twist on the overcrowded FPS genre. As one of the best looking games ever, it seems the power of Sony’s console is beginning to harness its true strength in a vital period for the company. As it stands today, this is the best reason to own a PlayStation 3 console, as Guerrilla Games’ hard work finally begins to pay off. The series has had its haters, but there is no doubting that if you don’t find enjoyment during this title, you never will.
Top Game Moment: The battle at the beginning of the final level is a real challenge and breath-takingly beautiful.
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