The much anticipated sequel to Left 4 Dead, Left 4 Dead 2  is a much more well rounded and complete game. It basically improves on everything that needed improvement from the first.

For a rundown on what the objective for this game is, read my review on Left 4 Dead. In a nutshell you're a group of survivors trying not to die as you go from one end of a map to the other.

With the addition of melee weapons, five new maps to start with (and an additional downloadable map that brings back the Left 4 Dead cast), two new game modes (and an additional downloadable one), three new special infected, and an array of new guns and weapons the depth to this game has greatly expanded from it's predecessor. Along with all that there are also side missions that crop up when trying to get from point A to B that add a bit of variety into the gameplay lacking in the first Left 4 Dead.

As annoying as it is to have to buy the same game twice within a year Left 4 Dead 2 was definitely worth the purchase. The sound of the melee guitar weapon going "twang" as you use it to decapitate some zombie was alone worth the purchase price. It pretty much beats L4D on every level quite handly, and yet unlike the first installment there hasn't been the same buzz, the same mad rush to play it every chance you get. It could just be the group of people on my xbox friends list, but it seems like people are turned off by the fact that the first was out such a short while ago. They aren't willing to shell out the money for a new one. It's unfortunate cause this is the game that should of launched the franchise. It could be a blessing in disguise though. I think everyone got burned out on the first one partly due to the fact you could go on and jump into a map with 3 buddies instantly. With this one we have to plan our gameplay ahead of time and because of that there is still a lot of game yet to explore. Speaking of which writing this review has got me wanting to play this game. I'll see you online..

2008

XBox 360
PC
Mac