|
BloodRayne 2
The original BloodRayne was released in 2002 as a third person action
game that was set during the 1930's. The game took control of the
sensually-charged "dhampir" (half human and half vampire) who had a
variety of super-human abilities that she unleashed on a plethora of
Nazis and supernatural monsters. The game was pure b-movie (or b-game)
that was as clichéd as they come but definitely entertaining. This time,
the gaming engine has been upgraded with lush graphics, improved
gameplay and of course the return of our sexy vampire that would give
even Lara Croft a run for female video game star of the century.
As with the previous title, the games main
focus is rather clearly that of melee combat and while the collision
detection has gotten a lot better than what it used to be, it still
isn’t quite perfect. Having said that, dismembering enemies is almost
too fun, and running around slashing various types of monsters and thugs
is exceptionally enjoyable.
Unfortunately the Nazis are long gone
(considering the time frame) and Rayne must now battle her way through a
variety of menacing thugs, mercenaries, vampires, dhampirs and even vampire
hunters who needless to say will be disemboweled before they even see
this sexy vixen coming at them. Although the game is heavily reliant on
combat, there are enough puzzles and side-quests in this game to make it
a truly engaging adventure game.
Our vixen Rayne is armed with a pair of
long, sharp blades that are buckled to her arms, as well as an arsenal
of kicks, bites, throws, slices, and deadly chops. She also possesses a
whip-like chain that can hook an enemy and throw him or her in any
direction-a useful skill against large groups and for solving the myriad
of killing puzzles scattered throughout each level. Additionally, she'll
acquire a pair of pistols that fire blood ammunition in long-range
fights.
Rayne also has access to a variety of
special powers that allows the gamer to perform a variety of vampire-esq
moves such as slowing down time or engaging into vampire blood lust,
thanks to the rage meter. My personal favorite "super-power" is that
Rayne can also enchant her enemies and use them as her allies but then
again it's a tough call, either blood lust of enchantment.
Graphically, BloodRayne 2 has received a
much needed upgrade since its last incarnation that successfully mixes
CGI with in-game graphics. The main character in this game has been
professionally designed (obvious the creators have ensured that this
vixen contains every right measurement), match that with some
beautifully created background environments and you have one good
looking title.
As with the graphics, the sound effects and
musical score has been professionally designed with that famous "B"
acting from Rayne and also a great soundtrack that suits this title
perfectly. Needless to say, the actress who voices Rayne mixes her voice
from pure sensuality to deadly cunningness. Add in a variety of sounds
from both the dead and the living and it's almost like you're on a set
of Buffy the Vampire Slayer.
In conclusion, BloodRayne 2 is a worthy
successor from its predecessor that takes the series to the next
evolutionary stage with improved graphics and gameplay with everyone's favourite half-human and half-vampire vixen. Recommended to all ages who
love an adventure game filled with bloodlust and great story telling!
Check it out!
 |
