Kane and Lynch 2
Producer: Io Interactive
Release Date: August 17, 2010
Platform: Xbox 360, PS3, PC
Rating: Mature
Genre: Action
Doggone Good!!!
Written by Andres Caicedo
Kane and Lynch 2: Dog Days doesn’t revolutionize cover-based shooters, but sure as hell keeps you occupied on summer nights. I came in playing this game with very low standards, as the first one wasn’t anything to write home about. But soon after finishing this quickie, I was delighted with a very same level sequel. Square Enix and Eidos Interactive sure had to pull a miracle with the second one, and although it isn’t a ‘perfect game’, so to speak, it will sure bring hours of fun for someone looking for something new other than CoD multiplayer matches. Believe me, I know.
The story is minimal at best, but honestly not the selling point of the game. Kane comes to visit Lynch in Shanghai, China for an arms deal, as well as to catch up on old times. While a little hazy with the occurrences from the first game, the sequel gives you something to work with. Action-packed, shit starts to hit the fan before you even know it. Progress your way through the slums of China, toward the financial capital of Shanghai. Aside from the story, the main part to focus on is the gameplay. If I could relate, it’s a Gears of War-esque gameplay that has become pretty traditional over the years – the typical duck & cover, rinse & repeat. Although there’s nothing original anymore about this style, there’s something satisfying about hiding next to a wall while you are blind-firing enemies with your automatic shotgun. You can hold up to two guns, and while the guns indefinitely run out of ammo fast, enemies also drop their guns. Picking up ammunition from a recently deceased body will fully replenish your ammo as well. Gameplay is pretty much “move to room A, clear out enemies, progress a bit, then move to room B, and repeat,” and although, this doesn’t extremely exciting, it’s very satisfying to shoot people in this game. One awful thing that bothers me (and why it hasn’t been touched upon in the majority of shooters) is how unrealistic that it takes 3-5 bullets to nail someone down, with the exception of headshots. Another neat treat that the game has to offer is the visuals. Instead of having a muddy and grainy picture like the original title, you now have a handheld vibe following the main characters. This promotes action and intensity and adds depth and the artistic look that this game is going for.
All in all, Kane and Lynch 2: Dog Days is a fun game in strides. It will be over before you know it (roughly under 4 hours on normal difficulty), but it will definitely satiate your shooting needs for a hot minute. If you’re looking for a quick shooter with not too much to worry about in the story department, catch this one fast before another par title pushes it aside.