- Publisher: Red Hook Studios
- Release Date: Jul 15, 2024
- Also On: PC, PlayStation 4, Switch, Xbox One, Xbox Series X
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Feb 18, 2025Darkest Dungeon II is a thrilling knock at the door of death. Who will answer? Red Hook Studios offers little solace for hopeful players wishing for vacancy. This is an unquestionably difficult game, often a selling point for this generation of players. While Darkest Dungeon II may constantly test the mettle of players and unceremoniously send them packing with little effort, it is that singular vision constantly escalating players’ interest. In such a dreary world there is light to be found, whether it be victory or that itch to try again, in spite of the odds.
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Jul 16, 2024Addictive, fun and challenging, Darkest Dungeon 2 is a remarkable, almost outstanding game that knows how to contribute to the original formula while maintaining everything good that its predecessor already had. It is a thrilling journey through the intricacies of the mind and madness in a fusion of grimdark with the Cthulhu mythos.
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Jul 15, 2024Darkest Dungeon 2 is a different bet to the first title, a game that allows itself to be rocked by the most mainstream roguelike while maintaining what made the first instalment so unique and difficult. Its proposal is very different and that is why the value of this sequel soars.
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Jul 19, 2024Red Hook Studios have done it again and provided another great experience in a dark and punishing world. Darkest Dungeon II feel new but familiar, providing a fantastic remixed gameplay loop alongside updated visuals. It may provide a different experience from its highly rated predecessor, but it stands on its own as an alternative way of playing a Darkest Dungeon title. I only wish that they'd ventured towards newer content than playing it safe by keeping mostly familiar faces. Hopefully Red Hook have more in store for this Darkest Dungeon adventure.
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Jul 16, 2024Darkest Dungeon II is quite different from the first and everyone should be aware of this. It's a game that brings great new ideas, although followed by a very frustrating "artificial limitation". The affinity system, the brutal and complex combat system, in addition to the better development of the narrative are positive aspects that justify the investment in this universe. However, it's a shame that you have to spend a lot of time unlocking new features to see its full potential.
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Aug 29, 2024Darkest Dungeon II continues the tradition of its predecessor with a challenging and punishing gameplay loop that rewards perseverance. The game’s brutal difficulty is balanced by its deep strategy and atmospheric presentation, making every victory feel hard-earned. However, its relentless nature may be overwhelming for some players, but for those who thrive on intense, unforgiving experiences, it’s a rewarding journey into darkness.
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Jul 19, 2024Despite the console-centric flaw of navigating menus and unforgiving opening hours, Darkest Dungeon II is a brutally brilliant turn-based RPG roguelike. From the flawless presentation to the complex systems, the game leaves so much room for near-endless opportunities to tinker with – Darkest Dungeon II is a challenge you can’t help but accept.
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Jul 15, 2024Darkest Dungeon 2 is a great, atmospheric roguelike that nevertheless stands in the shadow of its grandiose predecessor.
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Jul 18, 2024Darkest Dungeon 2 does a lot right. My fear is that is so different in places to its predecessor that it may alienate its fan base a little. The combat is improved, the visuals, cinematography and sound work is top notch. This game does so much to make the game smoother, simpler and easier to play, unfortunately it loses a little of what made the first so amazing along the way.
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Aug 2, 2024Taking up the torch of hope against the forces of evil was never going to be an easy task, and Darkest Dungeon II makes sure you feel it. While the roster of heroes creates plenty of opportunities for build crafting, actually interacting with all of the systems in the game can feel like a slog at times. Even so, there’s enjoyment to be found in this roguelite spin on the brutally difficult combat and festering world that Darkest Dungeon is known for.
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Jul 31, 2024Darkest Dungeon II offers a unique and complex experience, with many hours of gameplay and exploration. However, it demands extreme patience, as its steep learning curve may prove challenging for many casual gamers.
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Jul 15, 2024Darkest Dungeon 2 is quite a departure from its predecessor, so much so that fans of that game might not gel with its more streamlined systems and mechanics. However, Red Hook has managed to retain that same dark spirit, and if you can get on board with it, it'll keep you coming back for more until the very last.
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PLAYAug 19, 2024Though the battle system is refined, the lacklustre structure feels needlessly slow and repetitive. We’d rather play the first one – not a good omen. [Issue#44, p.86]