Darksiders II for the WiiU delivers a dark and immersive action-adventure experience that aims to captivate retro gaming enthusiasts with its blend of nostalgia and innovative gameplay. As an experienced retro gaming journalist, I must say that this title falls slightly short of its potential, earning a modest rating of 4/10.
One of the standout aspects of Darksiders II is its captivating storyline. Set in a post-apocalyptic world where Death, one of the Four Horsemen, seeks to redeem his brother's name, the game weaves a tale filled with lore and intrigue. This narrative depth is reminiscent of classic RPGs, drawing players into a world that is both eerily familiar and full of new and unexpected twists.
The gameplay mechanics in Darksiders II are a mixed bag, with some elements paying homage to the golden age of gaming and others feeling somewhat clunky. The combat system, for instance, channels the spirit of classic hack-and-slash titles, allowing players to unleash devastating combos and execute awe-inspiring finishing moves. This sense of power and skill is undeniably satisfying and harkens back to the days of button-mashing triumph.
However, where Darksiders II falls short is in its execution of certain gameplay features. The platforming sections, while attempting to recreate the joy of precise jumping and timing, can often feel frustrating due to imprecise controls and camera angles. This unfortunate flaw disrupts the flow of the game and detracts from the overall enjoyment.
Visually, Darksiders II pays homage to classic art styles with its dark and brooding atmosphere. The environments are beautifully crafted, drawing inspiration from iconic retro game landscapes. From sprawling dungeons filled with treacherous traps to ethereal realms teeming with otherworldly creatures, the game successfully captures a sense of nostalgia while adding its unique touch.
However, the technical performance on the WiiU leaves much to be desired. Frame rate drops and occasional graphical glitches hinder the immersion and remind players that this is a remastered version of a game originally released on different platforms. While these issues may not be deal-breakers, they do tarnish the overall experience, making it difficult to fully appreciate the game's artistic vision.
In conclusion, Darksiders II for the WiiU offers a mixed bag of nostalgic charm and frustrating gameplay elements. While the engrossing narrative and satisfying combat system evoke the spirit of retro gaming, issues with controls and technical performance prevent it from reaching its full potential. Retro gaming enthusiasts may find moments of delight in this title, but it ultimately falls short of creating a truly memorable experience.
