Shank 2

 Xbox 360
Metascore
77

Generally favorable reviews - based on 36 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 27 out of 36
  2. Mixed: 9 out of 36
  3. Negative: 0 out of 36
  1. Game Over Online
    Feb 14, 2012
    73
    Shank 2 features tighter gameplay than the first, but also more glitches and slowdown, and graphics that have pretty much stayed the same with a soundtrack that isn't as good as the first. At $10, it isn't a terrible use of money and does offer a few hours of fun, but my gut tells me it's best to wait for a price drop - there will probably be one for both the PS3 and 360 versions at some point, and there will definitely be one for the PC/Steam version. If you didn't really love the first game, you can skip this one, but if you did, definitely give it a shot when it drops in price.
  2. GameOver.gr
    Feb 22, 2012
    70
    The new adventure of Shank manages to fix and greatly improve some of the gameplay mechanics, providing an immensely satisfying combat system. We hope that a possible sequel will also see improvements in the platforming sections along with a greater variety in enemy types.
  3. Gamereactor Denmark
    Feb 20, 2012
    70
    Shank 2's biggest problem is that it still insists on turning everything up to 11 – there's never room to breathe, and every scene tries to outdo the last one. And even though Shank 2 is definitely a better game than Shank, it should have been even better than it actually is. Luckily, the multiplayer is surprisingly robust and, depending on how much time you plan on playing it, make up for the shortcomings of the campaign.
  5. GamesRadar+
    Feb 14, 2012
    70
    It never takes any chances but delivers an overall solid beat 'em up. Inconsistent difficulty, nonexistent story and a lack of gameplay variety hold Shank 2 back, but those looking for a better playing experience from Shank's last outing might want to give the sequel a try.
  6. Game Revolution
    Feb 14, 2012
    70
    The trouble with Shank 2 is that this co-op multiplayer only lasts for a little while. Eventually your couch co-op partner has to go home, or you stop finding people to play with online. Then it's back to single player... stab... go right... stab some more... go right... jump over the flames... stab... latter, rinse, repeat.
  7. Game Informer
    Feb 10, 2012
    70
    While I continue to respect Klei Entertainment's art style and devotion to bloody fantasy above all else, it needs to design less frustrating levels and encounters before its games truly click for me. The upgrades in Shank 2 are a lot like the act of revenge: It feels satisfying in the short term, but in the end you're left with the empty feeling that maybe it didn't improve that much at all.
  8. GameWatcher
    Feb 22, 2012
    60
    If you're after an old-school brawler it's definitely still worth your consideration – but absolutely keep in mind that this offers frustration as well as fun.
  9. GameSpot
    Feb 14, 2012
    60
    Gory combat comes at a high cost in the uneven Shank 2.
  10. Metro GameCentral
    Feb 12, 2012
    60
    A significant improvement on the last game in terms of mechanics, but still a 2D beat 'em-up that frustrates as much as it entertains.

Awards & Rankings

76
#76 Best Xbox 360 Game of 2012

User Reviews

All reviews »
User Score
6.3

Mixed or average reviews- based on 44 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 23 out of 44
  2. Mixed: 9 out of 44
  3. Negative: 12 out of 44
  1. BlackNastyyy
    Jan 5, 2014
    7
    For what it is, I would say that this game is not too shabby for a side-scrolling beat-'em-up/shooter. That being said, it also has many ofFor what it is, I would say that this game is not too shabby for a side-scrolling beat-'em-up/shooter. That being said, it also has many of the issues that are commonly found in this genre; shoddy hit detection at times and the inability to entertain for long periods of time. The main issue that really ruined this game from being better for me was the fact that the framerate is guaranteed to drop every couple fights. In a game where one error proves fatal, this just leads to frustrating deaths time and time again.… Full Review »
  2. Shazalia
    Feb 27, 2012
    9
    As far as downloadable titles go, it doesn't get much better than Shank 2. Building on what made the first game so unique, Klei has crafted aAs far as downloadable titles go, it doesn't get much better than Shank 2. Building on what made the first game so unique, Klei has crafted a game that is more accessible to new comers, while satisfying fans of the original. If Shank 2 stumbles, it does so in its narrative, given that it's essentially none existent. The original Shank had an interesting tale, albeit generic and simple. Nevertheless, Shank 2 doesn't require a Shakespearean tale to motivate you to get from point A to point B. The gameplay in Shank 2 is fairly simple, but deep enough for it to require some skill. Countering and rolling is a welcome addition that eliminates much of the frustration that the previous entry suffered from. Rolling is as simple as flicking the right stick, God of War esque if you will, and countering is done by clicking R2 on the Ps3 and RT on the Xbox respectively. If the option of the Xbox or Ps3 is available, I would insist that one would go with the Ps3 version. The controller is much more suited for the play style in my opinion. The campaign while pretty brief, never overstays its welcome, and there are multiple difficulties to encourage players for a second go around. Normal mode is recommended to new players, while veterans of Shank will derive much more enjoyment playing on the harder difficulty. Shank 2 adds a survival mode that is incredibly fun. Players will take on waves of enemies who increase in difficulty with each progressive wave. While fending off enemies, players will be required to protect three stations. One can also buy items from a shop, such as potions or heavy machine guns to aid you in your struggle. I would advise playing the survival mode with a friend or online with another individual, due to the difficulty in completing it alone. At ten dollars, Shank epitomizes "bang for your buck." Its entertaining campaign won't last long, but there's the survival mode to lean back on. Completionists will be happy to know there are tons of quirky costumes to unlock, with some of them adding an interesting mix to the already competent survival mode. Shank 2 impresses, and anyone looking for a few hours of fun on a Saturday night, or something to keep you busy for a few weeks with a friend, this is your game.… Full Review »
  3. ZergoBergo
    Feb 9, 2012
    10
    Shank 2 is in every way an improvement over the original. This goes to show what a talented young studio can do when listening to constructiveShank 2 is in every way an improvement over the original. This goes to show what a talented young studio can do when listening to constructive criticism. To summarize, the animation is better, the handling is tighter, the kills are more satisfying, and dare i say the blood is bloodier. It will bring you much more fun then the the sandwich you could alternately buy for the same price.… Full Review »
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