Manhunt 2

Manhunt 2 is an exceptionally violent third-person stealth game and the sequel to the original Manhunt by Rockstar Games. In this bloody and controversial title, you control Daniel Lamb, a mental patient who escapes from his cell during a heavy storm. Hunted by a mysterious group, Daniel and another patient must survive in the deadly city of Cottonmouth while they uncover Daniel's foggy history. Packed with gory executions and other adult content, Manhunt 2 has earned a reputation as one of the most extreme games in the industry. While that may be somewhat true, is Manhunt 2 any fun? Let's find out if blood and guts are enough to keep this stealth game interesting.

Main Game Features

• 14 levels of stealth action
• New and more violent executions
• Enhanced enemy intelligence

Story

Although Manhunt 2 is a sequel to the controversial original game, it features a completely new setting and cast of characters. Instead of controlling the death row prisoner Earl Cash, players assume the role of Daniel Lamb, a patient of the Dixmor Asylum for the Criminally Insane. One night, a fierce thunderstorm, Daniel and some of his fellow patients manage to escape from the facility, murdering several guards and patients in the process. After returning home, Daniel starts to recall more of his life before the Asylum, pointing him towards a secretive government program. Hungry for more information, Daniel and his pal Leo risk life and limb to discover the truth.

In comparison to the original Manhunt, Manhunt 2 offers a stronger story with arguably better characters. While the story twists are a bit predictable and lore is mostly cliché, it's more enjoyable than the depraved narrative of the original. The mystery behind Daniel Lamb's true identity is interesting enough to propel you through the game, always eager to uncover the next clue. While it might not be a masterpiece, the story in Manhunt 2 is serviceable.

Gameplay

While the story is very different, the gameplay in Manhunt 2 is mostly unchanged from the first. Playing as Daniel, you must carefully navigate a variety of environments, including city streets, various buildings, and some outdoor locations as well. Daniel doesn't have a ton of health, so it's always best to stick to the shadows, where enemies are unable to see you. Manhunt 2 features a handful of new features, such as breakable lights and additional exploration options. The combat stays mostly the same, but with some notable additions.

Like in the previous game, you'll sneak up behind most enemies and execute them with the weapon you are holding. Certain weapons break after just one use, while others last for multiple kills. There are three levels of execution to perform, with higher levels offering a more violent death.

In addition to melee weapons, firearms can also be used for executions. Environmental executions have also been added, so you can electrocute baddies with fuse boxes, drown them in toilets, and more. The upgraded graphics make this violence much more visceral and gruesome, making the entire experience feel unsettling at points.

Pros

• Enemies are smarter
• Interesting premise
• Effective atmosphere and tone

Cons

• Stealth can feel repetitive
• Underwhelming story