The Darkness II

 Xbox 360
User Score
7.6

Generally favorable reviews- based on 275 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 177 out of 275
  2. Mixed: 71 out of 275
  3. Negative: 27 out of 275
Buy Now
Buy on

Review this game

  1. Your Score
    0 out of 10
    Rate this:
    • 10
    • 9
    • 8
    • 7
    • 6
    • 5
    • 4
    • 3
    • 2
    • 1
    • 0
    • 0
  1. Submit
  2. Check Spelling
view
per page
  1. YipManSays
    Feb 26, 2012
    7
    Better than I expected. The game brings some interesting mechanics with the demon arms. It is quite amusing to pick a car door up as a shield and then hurl it at an enemy slicing him in half. The story is pretty interesting as well and having not played the first Darkness, the Darkness 2 makes we want to go back and check out the first game. There is also a leveling system that is quiteBetter than I expected. The game brings some interesting mechanics with the demon arms. It is quite amusing to pick a car door up as a shield and then hurl it at an enemy slicing him in half. The story is pretty interesting as well and having not played the first Darkness, the Darkness 2 makes we want to go back and check out the first game. There is also a leveling system that is quite deep and helps make combat more interesting. The game also rewards for killing enemies beyond the simple point and shoot mechanics. However I found myself getting bored after the novelty wore off and the story was the only thing keeping interested in the game. But overall a decent shooter!… Expand
  2. Akaforty
    Feb 18, 2012
    7
    I loved the original game. The Darkness 2 changes it's graphics, which isn't bad even, I liked it. But it seemed to me that it was just a classic arcade shootout game. The story is good, but nowhere as good as in the first one. There are no tear jerking scenes as in the first one and the overall feeling just doesn't quite fit. It's a very predictable game and the story ends in a scene thatI loved the original game. The Darkness 2 changes it's graphics, which isn't bad even, I liked it. But it seemed to me that it was just a classic arcade shootout game. The story is good, but nowhere as good as in the first one. There are no tear jerking scenes as in the first one and the overall feeling just doesn't quite fit. It's a very predictable game and the story ends in a scene that raised the only emotion I felt while playing this game, anger. What a stupid ending. It turns into something completely different than I expected. But if I don't count the ending, it provided some fun and tricks played on your mind, it's a good game.… Expand
  3. seifershneider
    Feb 16, 2017
    8
    I had the pleasure to play and finish the Darkness II and I was pleasantly surprised by how entertaining this game was.

    I have never played the first Darkness game, so I thought I would find myself lost; however, this game has a nice recap that puts you up to date from the get go. I found the story telling very interesting, intriguing, and captivating. I always wanted to know what would    I had the pleasure to play and finish the Darkness II and I was pleasantly surprised by how entertaining this game was.

    I have never played the first Darkness game, so I thought I would find myself lost; however, this game has a nice recap that puts you up to date from the get go. I found the story telling very interesting, intriguing, and captivating. I always wanted to know what would happen to Jackie Estacado, his family, friends, and loved ones.

    The gameplay is a mixture between FPS and role playing game (Skyrimish when it comes to the Darkness skills). I think it's a great combination, and I hope that they would emphasize the role playing aspect more in future games. I strongly believe that this franchise has the potential to make way more money if they shift the balance from FPS with a little RPG elements, to RPG with FPS elements. Especially that the story telling is pretty good! Additional quests/subquests would make it more appealing to a larger audience in my humble opinion.

    I had a great time playing this game and I would recommend it to anyone who wants to explore the Darkness universe. Finally, I would like to thanks the developers for making this game, and I hope to see more coming from you guys! :)

    Verdict: B+    … Expand
  4. Chubac
    May 13, 2020
    7
    The gameplay feels kinda weird and the story ends with a huge cliffhanger but other than that it's a decent FPS.
  5. Xborn74
    Feb 24, 2012
    8
    This is a great FPS, with a Dark theme (Darkness is based in a series of comics by the way), a nice change of style from the conventional FPS in the market. The game feature very nice and innovative cell-shaded graphics (like Borderlands, but in a sinister way), and you have other "weapons" than the usual guns, that being two "dark creatures", that can eat the soul of the enemies, but youThis is a great FPS, with a Dark theme (Darkness is based in a series of comics by the way), a nice change of style from the conventional FPS in the market. The game feature very nice and innovative cell-shaded graphics (like Borderlands, but in a sinister way), and you have other "weapons" than the usual guns, that being two "dark creatures", that can eat the soul of the enemies, but you have to manage the environment too, because you're vulnerable to light. For whom have played the original game, it's like the experience of the first one, but much more refined. The game also features a Multiplayer and "Horde" like mode. My score: 8,1 / 10,0… Expand
  6. ShootTheZombie
    May 9, 2012
    7
    A very interesting sequel, considering how dark the 1st one was. However, I think they made a mistake with the comic style. I loved how realistic and immersive the original was, and how awesome you felt when you would unleash the darkness in a nightclub, or a factory. Now it just seems you are overpowered, on a linear path, ripping to pieces mobsters. The story however, is perfect. TheA very interesting sequel, considering how dark the 1st one was. However, I think they made a mistake with the comic style. I loved how realistic and immersive the original was, and how awesome you felt when you would unleash the darkness in a nightclub, or a factory. Now it just seems you are overpowered, on a linear path, ripping to pieces mobsters. The story however, is perfect. The characters and Jackie himself keep the game flowing, which build up towards an epic finale. However, it is a bit on the short side, and can easily be completed within a day. Overall, it is a good sequel, despite the mistake of a linear comic take. Fun, violent, and immersive. 7/10… Expand
  7. Azsin
    Feb 17, 2012
    10
    The darkness 2 is a true sequel improving on almost every aspect of the first game, the combat is smooth and vicious, the graphics have a cell shaded look which fits brilliantly in this comic book adaptation and my personal favourite aspect; the riveting and emotional story. While the main campaign is initially short the newgame+ and co-op vendettas mode flesh the game out to be well worthThe darkness 2 is a true sequel improving on almost every aspect of the first game, the combat is smooth and vicious, the graphics have a cell shaded look which fits brilliantly in this comic book adaptation and my personal favourite aspect; the riveting and emotional story. While the main campaign is initially short the newgame+ and co-op vendettas mode flesh the game out to be well worth its asking price and whilst some reviewers have complained about bugs in the game during my time with the game I didn't notice a single one.… Expand
  8. JulianDRS
    Feb 8, 2012
    10
    This was a very fun game with an interesting plot to boot, however the campaign is ungodly short, so I would recommend a rent rather than a buy because you won't get much time out of it.
  9. Jwxyz
    Feb 7, 2012
    10
    The Darkness 2 to me is different among other games it keeps you wanting more just like the creature inside Jackie the game play is fantastic and the story is riveting and quad wielding is something new and flows really well the graphics are great to me it reminds me of borderlands 2 i have already beat the game and im on my second play through and i could tell you this game is worth a buy
  10. sgtpeper
    Feb 10, 2012
    9
    It is a fun game, simple as that. The shooting is fun, story line is very good, after all it is a video game; basically it is everything you want to do!
  11. aqurban
    Feb 11, 2012
    10
    It's true that The Darkness 2 detached itself from it's predecessor by a long run just leaving the open-world aspect and realistic graphics behind, but it also reminded us that the franchise is still solid no matter how perspective you look at it from, either its comic, gritty visuals, highly animated characters or more linear narrative. The Darkness 2 grows dependant with its addictiveIt's true that The Darkness 2 detached itself from it's predecessor by a long run just leaving the open-world aspect and realistic graphics behind, but it also reminded us that the franchise is still solid no matter how perspective you look at it from, either its comic, gritty visuals, highly animated characters or more linear narrative. The Darkness 2 grows dependant with its addictive gun play, fast paced gun-slash-run mechanics and beautiful comic-like art.… Expand
  12. Iamthecell
    Feb 16, 2012
    8
    The game is what we expected from a sequel. I can say I was disapointed by the story. it really didn't tie in together and in the end, killed itself because of an AWFUL ending. The game plays like butter, good variety of guns and enviromental objects to use as weapons. There is just no replay value at all. I rented it and beat it in a day. It's a good rental, but not a buy.
  13. ReubenIsAGod
    Sep 30, 2015
    8
    My god, this game is absolutely fantastic. The Darkness is such a fun rewarding game: the atmosphere, the environment, the pacing and the overall story is just so fantastic that its a shame this games biggest weakness is the fact that its just to painfully short. Every about this game screams Comic Book, its just so sad that its way to short and for $60 dollars you are definitely notMy god, this game is absolutely fantastic. The Darkness is such a fun rewarding game: the atmosphere, the environment, the pacing and the overall story is just so fantastic that its a shame this games biggest weakness is the fact that its just to painfully short. Every about this game screams Comic Book, its just so sad that its way to short and for $60 dollars you are definitely not getting your moneys worth. If only the game was longer and you actually had more control of the darkness, it would definitely be a solid 10/10. But as it stands, a very short FPS with an incredible, heartbreaking, story with beautiful graphics and easily the most comic book feeling game since the Batman Arkham franchise, i definitely recommend checking out this game if it is one sale.… Expand
  14. uneasyeko1
    Feb 10, 2012
    10
    I can only recommend this game, even if you don't like very much the first chapter, it's really different from the other generic shooters out at the moment, the campaign is a little short but has good replay value thanks to the upgrades and some really emotional moments that are worth a second playthrough, the co-op isn't great but it's fun and can also be played solo, the graphics areI can only recommend this game, even if you don't like very much the first chapter, it's really different from the other generic shooters out at the moment, the campaign is a little short but has good replay value thanks to the upgrades and some really emotional moments that are worth a second playthrough, the co-op isn't great but it's fun and can also be played solo, the graphics are original and well drawn. The darkness II will make you feel like a badass like no other recent fps, buy it with confidence and if you haven't got the first one buy it too, it's an experience you won't miss… Expand
  15. HugodrAndrade
    Feb 7, 2012
    10
    Just started playing The Darkness 2, i have now about 5 hours of play , and this is a must buy !
    For those who played first darkness this is a day one buy for sure.
    The new graphics engine is fantastic, digital extreme was done an incridible job without any doubts. The story is still very good like the first game, the gameplay is alot improved, the OST is great... It is more linear then    Just started playing The Darkness 2, i have now about 5 hours of play , and this is a must buy !
    For those who played first darkness this is a day one buy for sure.
    The new graphics engine is fantastic, digital extreme was done an incridible job without any doubts.
    The story is still very good like the first game, the gameplay is alot improved, the OST is great... It is more linear then the first, but you get to do whatever you want on your mansion, talk / do mini-games.
    Multiplayer is much better, you get a separte campaign, you can play in co-op mode too.
    The limited edition costs as much a regular edition of any new game, and its very good... the cover is 3D and you get a poster inside the box of the game, and the special content.

    My score is 9/10    … Expand
  16. sargent
    Feb 9, 2012
    10
    this game have a perfect gameplay and is good graphic cell shade an texture is good and etc but sound not very perfect the darkness is good game the story about jackie escado and game tell good say for people and this game have a co_op it is very fun
  17. WingedAnomaly
    Feb 12, 2012
    10
    I adore. This. Game. Very few modern shooters manage to be so much FUN that it doesn't matter if the levels are repetitive and linear, which certainly wasn't the case here, but I don't want to talk about the level design: I want to talk about the gameplay, graphics, and story. Gameplay is insanely smooth. You have two human arms and two demon arms, each operable independently, butI adore. This. Game. Very few modern shooters manage to be so much FUN that it doesn't matter if the levels are repetitive and linear, which certainly wasn't the case here, but I don't want to talk about the level design: I want to talk about the gameplay, graphics, and story. Gameplay is insanely smooth. You have two human arms and two demon arms, each operable independently, but controlling this hydra of a character never feels overwhelming in the slightest. The upgrade system adds some wicked awesome powers and this great feeling of progression, and the use of light as a deterrent and weapon against your powers was a really cool feature. The graphics were, in a word, insane: Not quite as high poly as some other modern games, but the textures were flawless and pixel-free, the cell shading was a welcome addition, and the whole thing was optimized to a point and never once lagged on my machine. But the best part... the best part was the story. I don't want to spoil anything, but it's emotionally intense: I've never felt so compelled, so driven to move forward simply to find out what happens next simply because I'm wrapped up in the emotion before. It succeeds in planting the seeds of uncertainty into the player's mind as you progress so well that, by the end, you'll be completely unsure as to what's real and what isn't.

    It's short, but sweet: quality over quantity is a mantra the developers embraced with warmth. If you want a sprawling adventure that lasts for a long, long time, go play Skyrim or Human Revolution - but if you want to be taken along by an epic rollercoaster ride of emotion, play this game, however you can.    … Expand
  18. PurpleNova
    Feb 8, 2012
    7
    Great story, great gameplay, great co-op, great fun. The downfall of this game is the story is 5-7 hours long. A single player based game should not be 5 hours... no matter what. There is no excuse and this is the biggest flaw with the game. Very disappointing. Makes you wonder if your 60 dollars was worth it.
  19. Jarretteeno
    Feb 15, 2012
    10
    This game to me was everything i wanted the game to be. Its bloody and violent and still keeps to the story line well in my opinion. All and all worth the buy if you can handle some of the gore.
  20. osprey
    Jun 10, 2012
    3
    I don't think anyone reviewing this game who gave it a high rating and says it is an improvement over the first game can have played and loved the first game. They have taken a unique and engaging game and turned it into a very ordinary shooter. The shooting mechanics admittedly needed some work on the first game but other than that it was a very special and surprising change from anyI don't think anyone reviewing this game who gave it a high rating and says it is an improvement over the first game can have played and loved the first game. They have taken a unique and engaging game and turned it into a very ordinary shooter. The shooting mechanics admittedly needed some work on the first game but other than that it was a very special and surprising change from any other game I have played. The Darkness I is one of my all time favourite games and this game is just so ordinary. I am an achievement hunter and could easily get a perfect score on this game but dislike the experience so much that I will not even try. I just want to leave it behind and never think about it again. It is nothing like the first game. If they had called it something else then maybe it would be an o.k. shooter but for someone who loves and respects what the game developers gave us in the first game it is a crying shame. So disappointing.… Expand
  21. norse
    Apr 16, 2012
    10
    WOW. I actually thought I was renting Prototype II and was thinking about returning the game before playing it - but I got hooked in the first ten minutes of gameplay. Very short (playthrough in a day), but incredible good direction and fine storytelling. Getting used to using two arms and two tentacles is also super-addictive. It's a refreshing new take on gaming, sort of like comparing aWOW. I actually thought I was renting Prototype II and was thinking about returning the game before playing it - but I got hooked in the first ten minutes of gameplay. Very short (playthrough in a day), but incredible good direction and fine storytelling. Getting used to using two arms and two tentacles is also super-addictive. It's a refreshing new take on gaming, sort of like comparing a crisp action movie with a multi-episode television series. The cellshading actually works real well, the music was moving and the game keeps being entertaining instead of falling into the traps of repetitiveness.… Expand
  22. Locimento
    Mar 23, 2012
    8
    Quite an amazing game, and a great follow up to the first game. Its also easy to pick up since you don't need to have had to play the first game (all though I highly recommend you do) The game has a fantastic cell shaded look that reminds me of the comics. Game play in the Darkness 2 is bloody, fast paced, and extremely fun. The storyline is great and succeeds to hook you in and refuse toQuite an amazing game, and a great follow up to the first game. Its also easy to pick up since you don't need to have had to play the first game (all though I highly recommend you do) The game has a fantastic cell shaded look that reminds me of the comics. Game play in the Darkness 2 is bloody, fast paced, and extremely fun. The storyline is great and succeeds to hook you in and refuse to let you go I'll the games end. The darkness 2 is a little bit too linear unlike the first game and the level designs arnt very vast and there isnt mutch to explore or find either. But if you pick up the limited edition you get a great value. You get a nice double sided poster, a download of the first 2 darkness comics and some exclusive in game stuff.… Expand
  23. logan35
    Feb 23, 2012
    8
    The darkness 2 is a different experience than the first game and that's not a bad thing. First thing that stood out to me in the game was the comic book visuals. I think the new look fits great with the darkness considering the first game had a much more dark and dingy look. Once again you play as Jackie and after the events in the first game you start off as a mob boss this time. TheThe darkness 2 is a different experience than the first game and that's not a bad thing. First thing that stood out to me in the game was the comic book visuals. I think the new look fits great with the darkness considering the first game had a much more dark and dingy look. Once again you play as Jackie and after the events in the first game you start off as a mob boss this time. The game play has really been refined this time around, it's a blast to shoot and rip goons apart in this game. The story is good but, it did leave me feeling like I wanted something more out of it. Overall the darkness 2 is a great game and i'm sure many fans of the series will enjoy the game just as much as I did.… Expand
  24. Xon
    Aug 11, 2013
    10
    LET'S DO SOME RANDOM MISCHIEF!

    I love comics, I love games which inject humour and add a decent dollop of story combined with solid gameplay. And The Darkness 2 had it all. I'm a busy father who doesn't have 200 hours to invest in a game. The Darkness 2 kept me entertained, didn't overstay it's welcome and wrapped up the main story while opening the door to a sequel, which sadly we    LET'S DO SOME RANDOM MISCHIEF!

    I love comics, I love games which inject humour and add a decent dollop of story combined with solid gameplay. And The Darkness 2 had it all.

    I'm a busy father who doesn't have 200 hours to invest in a game. The Darkness 2 kept me entertained, didn't overstay it's welcome and wrapped up the main story while opening the door to a sequel, which sadly we might not be seeing anytime soon.

    THANKS MONKEY!    … Expand
  25. 410MaXiMuS
    Mar 13, 2012
    9
    Not quite what expected from a sequel to the original Darkness game, but still very fun. Awesome gameplay, pretty cool story, and fun co-op come together to form a worthy game.
  26. pokefreaks
    Feb 22, 2012
    10
    The first Darkness game is my first FPS game on Xbox360 and also one of my all time favorite shooters. Even though the Darkness 2 is a bit different from the first game, it's still as fun as ever except that this time it got better gameplay along with more interesting story and narration.

    Even though the semi-open world aspect from the first game is gone, an experience point based upgrade    The first Darkness game is my first FPS game on Xbox360 and also one of my all time favorite shooters. Even though the Darkness 2 is a bit different from the first game, it's still as fun as ever except that this time it got better gameplay along with more interesting story and narration.

    Even though the semi-open world aspect from the first game is gone, an experience point based upgrade system, brutal finishers and dual-wielding were introduced. The cell shaded graphics will remind as of the game's graphic novel origins.

    The Darkness 2 is easily one of the best comic book adaptation video games I'd ever played.    … Expand
  27. Duskspark
    May 11, 2013
    9
    Improved demonic controlls, improved gunplay, improved visual style, iproved AI, and improved story: the Darkness 2 is everything a good sequel has to be with an ejoyable campaign. The only flaw is the low replayability and the lack ofcontect (singleplayer and multiplayer, that's about it).
  28. iamTylerDurden
    Jun 9, 2013
    10
    A TRULY FUN ATMOSPHERIC GAME OOZING WITH 90's NOSTALGIA AND NYC STYLE. This game carves out its own interesting mythology that is very fascinating with the darkness and the angelus. The atmosphere is engrossing and dark and anyone who experienced the 90's for real will love the what 90's nyc has to offer from dialogue to Jane's addiction playing on the radio in the backround. More so thanA TRULY FUN ATMOSPHERIC GAME OOZING WITH 90's NOSTALGIA AND NYC STYLE. This game carves out its own interesting mythology that is very fascinating with the darkness and the angelus. The atmosphere is engrossing and dark and anyone who experienced the 90's for real will love the what 90's nyc has to offer from dialogue to Jane's addiction playing on the radio in the backround. More so than that this game tells a great story that will have you questioning your (Jackie Estacado)'s sanity more than once. It has great plot twists and leaves room for a sequel (fingers crossed) though i doubt it as it under sold due to people playing truly unique story driven shooters instead like Call of Doody (because the difference from modern warfare2 to modernwarfare 3 is so immense that admittedly they use the same exact game engine year to year hence the graphics neeever improving, where as look at how beautifully battlefield's graphics improve,frostbite1-gorgeous frostbite2 )so anyway back to FPS's that are actually fun, the Darkness 2 has the most fun and unique combat i have ever played in a FPS more so than bioshock. To what turns out to be a kind of quad wielding with regular satisfying dual wielding guns and two beautifully hideous snake like demon arms with demon heads on them growing out of your back in the dark (which is most of the game). The demon arms can flatout destroy and they steal the show with a multitude of capabilities from slashing a man in two to lacerating to eating a man's head to pick up objects like barrels and men and throwing them to grabbing car doors and using them as a shield they are simply amazing. They have a variety of finishing moves and they can even be used to throw your monkey like(even though he calls you monkey) demon pet at enemies and watch him rip them apart. Granted it is linear and it is rather short, it should be played on hard otherwise it is too easy. Jackie has multiple skill trees as well with unique upgradable powers and new abilities. The short single player campaign is more than tolerable considering there is a plethora of story advancing play to be had after the regular campaign. They have a vendetta campaign with 4 other playable characters which you can play alone or in coop. Either way it is very enjoyable playing and advancing other unique darkness empowered characters and further advancing the story. These are fully fleshed out characters with large skill trees, unique weapons, and distinct personalities. This mode extends the main story and is about half the length of the main story but with 4 different characters to try out. If that wasn't enough the game has a hitlist mode where you are placed in large semi levels tasked with ultimately taking out a boss like target after dispatching his henchmen. They have many of these hitlist missions and they can be played with friends as well and as any of the 4 new characters. All together there is MORE than enough content and Vendetta campaign and hitlists are not tacked on they are fully fleshed out and fun. Overall this is a very enjoyable FPS and it deserved more in sales and more from the reviewers i.e. game informer giving it a 7. something this game deserves better and it is Not a seven. I played the 360 version and experience ZERO bugs, stylish cell shaded graphics (after all it is a comic book) (see top cow) and an overall great time. 9.25/10 the Darkness 2… Expand
  29. MightyQuinn21
    Jul 4, 2013
    8
    Thought the game was amazing!!! Really liked the voice acting and characters in the game and the gameplay was especially great as well. The use of dual guns and the darkness as weapons makes for a good fun time. With the use of re-gaining health by eating enemies hearts along with the brutal ways you can kill with the darkness to obtain more health and more ammo adds to what makes thisThought the game was amazing!!! Really liked the voice acting and characters in the game and the gameplay was especially great as well. The use of dual guns and the darkness as weapons makes for a good fun time. With the use of re-gaining health by eating enemies hearts along with the brutal ways you can kill with the darkness to obtain more health and more ammo adds to what makes this game great and just flat out just fun to play. So if you want to play a game that's cheap and is fun too play definitely get this game. It's only $12 used at Gamestop now so great price and worth it.… Expand
  30. actinium
    Dec 26, 2021
    6
    / /
prev
Page:

Awards & Rankings

51
#51 Best Xbox 360 Game of 2012
37
#37 Most Discussed Xbox 360 Game of 2012
78
#78 Most Shared Xbox 360 Game of 2012

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
80

Generally favorable reviews - based on 71 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 60 out of 71
  2. Mixed: 11 out of 71
  3. Negative: 0 out of 71
  1. Gamers' Temple
    Apr 24, 2012
    84
    An average shooter wrapped in an entertaining story.
    Read full review
  2. GamesBeat
    Apr 11, 2012
    78
    I haven't played a game to completion twice in a single sitting since Portal 2, which should roughly hint at the quality of experience that awaits: It's short and sweet, with a decent cooperative multiplayer side-story for added value. And by "sweet," I mean you can hang a thug upside-down and rip their intestines out through their ass.
    Read full review
  3. Games Master UK
    Mar 13, 2012
    83
    Drastically improved combat means entry two is far from the disappointment many predicted. [Apr 2012, p.70]
See all critic reviews »