Portal 2
Producer: Valve/Nuclear Monkey Software
Release Date: April 19, 2011
Platform: Xbox 360, PS3, PC/Mac
Rating: E10+
Genre: FPS/Puzzler
They’re Back
Written by Albert Marrero, Jr.
If it ‘aint broke, don’t fix it. At least that’s what they say where I come from. And that’s just what Valve decided to do with Portal 2. GLaDOS is back, and with a more immersive story line, and insane puzzles, this game kicks major rear end. The cool part about it is that it’s actually a game that can be enjoyed by people of all ages, showing that violence isn’t the only way to sell a game. (Not that there’s anything wrong with bustin’ a cap in someone’s ass, virtually speaking…)
I used to think my girlfriend could be the world’s ultimate bitch, until I played this game. GLaDOS as she is “officially” known is actually a computer program housed in a robot, and back for more after we spanked her thoroughly in the original Portal. You begin the game in a futuristic housing and quickly come to learn that things aren’t quite correct. Wheatley is your robot buddy, and you will soon learn that he isn’t the sharpest tool in the shed leading to the rebirth and your fave blast from the past, GLaDos.
The puzzles are excellent. You’re really challenged to think in all different planes, and use every “weapon” at your disposal. The game starts off rather simply, but you’ll soon discover that She’s a super-smart villain with only your demise as her main interest. What’s cool about this is that if you haven’t played the original Portalsince your Orange Box days, you can pick it up and use the earlier levels as refreshers. If you’re a total n00b, you can get the hang of it fairly quickly. What makes this game truly special is that just when you think you’re a genius, you’re left scratching your head or worse… searching the internet for the answers to certain puzzles. Oh the shame…
For me personally, one of the coolest surprises in the game (don’t worry, no spoilers) is that Cave Johnson, CEO and owner of Aperature Science Technologies, is voiced by J.K. Simmons. Totally hilarious, and totally a character, there’s a reason why this guy is in our fave comedy films and yet fits perfectly into this game.
Fans of this game will surely appreciate the same game model and love the new challenges. Newbies will be hooked and become Portalites overnight. My only knock against this game is that I wish it was longer. The puzzles, albeit challenging, are sadistically addicting, and leave you wanting more. As mentioned earlier, the immersive story line is compelling and involved. It’s like LOTR: The Two Towers, you are satisfied, yet praying that there’s a third act. I can’t wait for part 3, which, judging by the success and awesomeness of this one, is probably in development as we speak. One can only hope…