Sly 2 is a step up from the last game being a (mostly) stealth 3d platformer. They took what was iconic and created detailed open zones that feels like a perfect fit for the genre.
There is plenty to love in this game; the small zones that are dense and plenty to do and explore (the complete opposite in todays gaming world), quirky characters and interactions, and the various gameplay which includes the mini games.
The theme and setting for Sly Cooper is iconic and leans more into it I enjoy that you can play as all 3 members in this game, all having unique moves, abilities and ways to setup the heist. For instance Murry can take on 5 enemies no problem while Sly is fantastic in traversing the stage. Sly 2 is not perfect as a few issues I found is:
- World 3, is not good. The missions and level design is sub par. Thankfully it was only one world I had issues with.
- Although an improvement, the story is fine but is lacking punch and the heists seems too lack sense upon what you are achieving and can hinder motivation.
- When going though the zones the game loop barely changes and makes the game repetitive towards the end. The zone areas are similar size and the enemies are the same just a different appearance.
- The games difficulty stays constant after the third zone so lacks the feeling of progression for the player
The game took about 17 hours to beat and was so rich in content. I played it on PS3 but if you are building a PS3 library, this game is one of the greats to have. Now to wish for a PS5 remake

A sequel that takes a totally new different approach in its design to the first games formula and it mostly pays off incredibly well. I think some of the levels feel padded out which leads to some annoying tedium, the boss fights aren't as dynamic and don't take as much risk as the first games. But the game makes up for it in much smoother gameplay in its platforming, combat, etc. Fantastic presentation and atmosphere in each level bring the world of Sly Cooper to even more life then the first games. Only issue is that the levels don't feel at all well designed for Bentley or Murray to run around in. Another noticeable step up from the first is the games narrative, the core gang each have even wittier and funnier written comradery, it also makes them all feel fleshed out as characters who learn and grow. Murray especially becomes an actual character this time and isn't just the fat one in the group looking for hot dogs like in the first game. Bentley having his moments to take the lead beyond the planning phase and face his fears. Overall a surprisingly great sequel full of surprises and fun even with its rough edges. Another 6th generation PS2 gem.