What do you do when someone calls you a clown? If you’re ex-mob hitman Shank you cut off his hand with a machete. Thus goes the opening cinematic of Shank 2. This one is definitely not safe for the kids, or anyone for that matter. On second thought, if the national media has taught us anything it’s that this type of over the top ultra violence is perfect for the jabbering mass of blood thirsty maniacal sub-human “gamers”.

The problem with reviews of sequels is the constant parallels and comparisons drawn between the game being reviewed and the original. This review will be no different. Has Shank 2 done enough to differentiate itself from ‘Shank’? Can Shank 2 stand on its own? Yes and No. While Shank 2 is more than competent and is in fact very good at what its doing, it feels more like Shank 1.5 than a true sequel. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing; if it isn’t broke don’t fix it, right?

The differences between ‘Shank’ and Shank 2 are small tweaks that add up to create a fast, fluid, and ultimately satisfying blur of blades and blood. The irritating RT + LS combo to preform an evasive roll has been replaced by a simple flick of the left stick. The combo stuttering delay between weapons when switching attacks is gone completely. Animation throughout is smoother. Shank himself can pounce further and moves faster. See what we mean, small changes that stack up. Really these small changes are all that were needed to turn a good game like ‘Shank’ into something better; if you were looking for something more you may not completely understand what a 2D side scrolling beat-em-up is all about.

The biggest change for Shank 2 is the co-op play. Campaign co-op is gone in this new iteration and is replaced by a wave based (Gears of War Horde Mode) survival mode. Kills get you cash, cash gets you more and better weapons, better equipment gets you victory. Survival can be played solo, but it’s not recommended. Instead grab a trusted ally and commence the blood-shed working together to kill the enemies and keep each other alive.

Shank 2 isn’t for everyone. If you were indifferent to the original go ahead and pass on this one. But if you were a fan, you’ll still be one. If you missed ‘Shank’ completely don’t be shy about Shank 2,with it being what we would have liked ‘Shank’ to be we’ll give it our recommendation to new comers to the franchise. Shank 2 is out now for $10 on Xbox Live Arcade, PlayStation Network for $9.99 an PC/Mac for $9.99.

For more info on Shank 2 visit: http://www.shankgame.com

Related Link:
Shank 2 Preview – https://coin-op.tv/?p=4710