Ghostrunner II: Deluxe Edition

Ghostrunner II: Deluxe Edition

released on Oct 26, 2023

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Ghostrunner II: Deluxe Edition

released on Oct 26, 2023

Ghostrunner II is a hardcore FPP slasher set in a post-apocalyptic, cyberpunk world. Featuring everything fans loved about Ghostrunner plus incredible boss fights, new interactive story, thrilling motorbike levels, improved skills, and more cyber ninja action. Ghostrunner II Deluxe Edition Includes: - Ghostrunner II Base Game - Ahriman's Katana Sword and Skin - Modern Energy Sword and Hand Skin - Molten Blade Sword and Hand Skin - Gothic Blue Sword and Hand Skin - Hand Hologram with Username


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Version

Deluxe Edition


More Info on IGDB


Reviews View More

Gameplay (Just as fun in some parts, Way worse in others):
Ghostrunner 2 maintains its speed-focused gameplay for the most part, but the new introduction of a random hub area feels like an unnecessary speed bump. The shift from the intricate skill mechanics of the first game to a more conventional system is a letdown, removing the unique charm that came with piecing together abilities like a puzzle.

Graphics/Visuals (STILL PEAK):
Visually stunning, Ghostrunner 2 continues the great cyberpunk aesthetics, its shaping up to be one of my favorite styles. The outside world and the enemy design in some places isnt too impressive though. But the world design, combined with great animations, remains standout to me, immersing players in the dystopian tower and surrounding landscape anyway.

Story/Narrative (Actually care now):
The narrative takes a leap forward with a more emotionally invested story and better developed characters. The deeper connection to the characters brings forward the overall experience, making players actually care about the unfolding events instead of just watching them play out. I wasnt a superfan of the ending, but I understand where it came from and it makes sense narratively.

Audio/Sound (It bumps but it pumps):
The soundtrack and sound effects maintain a similar feel, but something is missing especially in the music department. But the audio design remains a strong aspect of this series. Sound effects are seriously immersive.

Replayability (Way less than the first game):
Ghostrunner 2 introduces a ton of new ideas, enemy types, and content, with a lot to find everywhere, the inclusion of an open-world motorcycle section feels out of place and disrupts the fast-paced nature of the game by far. I almost didnt want to keep exploring because it just didnt feel fast anymore. Parkour turned to jumping puzzles, combat encounters turned into just doing the right thing in the right order, a lot of elements, such as puzzles, will deter a lot of replayability for those seeking a more straightforward, fast paced experience.

Innovation (New runner new me):
The sequel introduces a shit ton of new ideas like a dart board in the dev room but stumbles in execution for a lot of them. The shift to a conventional skill system instead of the dope tetris system from the last game, and the inclusion of puzzles feels like a departure from the franchise's strengths which is just running fast and killing fast, introducing some inconsistencies that sometimes ruin the spirit of the original.

Content/Extras (Didn't want to):
The game impresses me with its diverse content, but not all ideas are fully fleshed out. The open-world motorcycle section, in particular, stands out as an odd choice that I didnt really enjoy, while also being jam packed with collectables that werent fun to collect.

Overall Enjoyment (STILL SWEET THO):
This game succeeds in delivering that incredible experience I remember despite its many flaws. Adding that heart to the story and expanded content showcase the potential of turning this into a franchise. But the inclusion of poorly designed bosses (and i mean, REALLY poorly designed), pacing issues with the hub and some sections of boring puzzles, and some more underdeveloped ideas prevent the game from reaching the heights of the first game. Even with all these drawbacks, this game still manages to captivate me all the way through and leave a lasting impression, but I dont want to replay it anytime soon.