I wasn't incredibly fond of the first GoW, it has the syndrome of "the introductory entry where the concept hasn't been fully realized yet by the creators". It's not a bad game by any stretch but it is dry in comparison to its much more ambitious sequel. The sequel is basically a much better version of the first game and it also introduces a bunch of new mechanics and tools that all flow incredibly well. The combat is more fluid and less repetitious than GoW1. The platforming while can be janky at some parts has seen a major improvement and is nowhere as migraine inducing.
Overall, fun game :) but lacks gay sex minigames with greek men.