Is Dying Light 2 a Flop? Examining the Successes and Struggles of Techland’s Sequel
The question of whether Dying Light 2: Stay Human is a flop is a complex one, and the answer isn’t a simple yes or no. While it certainly hasn’t been a complete failure, it also hasn’t been the unqualified success many anticipated. A more accurate assessment would be that Dying Light 2 is a mixed bag, a game with notable triumphs overshadowed by significant missteps. While the game has sold an impressive 30 million units, indicating commercial success, it also faces persistent criticisms regarding its gameplay mechanics, story, and post-launch decisions. Therefore, rather than calling it a flop, it is more accurate to characterize it as a game with missed potential and a tumultuous journey since its release.
The High Points: Where Dying Light 2 Shines
Despite its issues, Dying Light 2 possesses several elements that are undeniably strong. One of its greatest strengths is its parkour system. While some find it clunky initially, mastering the movement mechanics can be incredibly rewarding and allows for fluid, exhilarating traversal through the city of Villedor. The open-world environment itself is also a highlight, offering a vast, interconnected space for exploration, even if some areas feel underutilized. The scale of the game’s world is significantly larger than that of the first title, providing a substantial playground for players to get lost in.
Furthermore, the developers at Techland have shown commitment to supporting the game post-launch. This includes numerous patches and updates designed to address player feedback and fix technical issues, although these patches have also sometimes caused new issues. The introduction of new content, such as firearms, in the future, indicates that Techland is working hard to deliver on player expectations.
The Low Points: Where Dying Light 2 Stumbles
The issues that plague Dying Light 2 are numerous and frequently mentioned by critics and players alike. Perhaps the most common complaint is about its story and characters, which are widely considered weaker and less engaging compared to the original Dying Light. The narrative is often described as disjointed, with uninspiring characters and choices that feel inconsequential.
Another significant point of criticism is the game’s combat system. Although it can be exciting at times, it quickly becomes repetitive. The variety of infected enemies is often considered lacking and not as terrifying as the first game. Additionally, some players find the implementation of dark zones to hinder, rather than enhance exploration.
The introduction of microtransactions post-launch was a significant blow to the game’s reputation, causing a surge of negative reviews on Steam and shifting the overall review average from “Mostly Positive” to “Mixed.” This move undermined player trust and reinforced negative sentiment about the game’s direction.
Lastly, while the parkour is a core element of the game’s appeal, it also has some significant issues. Many players find that the controls are unresponsive and clunky, making navigation difficult and frustrating at times. This inconsistency can undermine the otherwise satisfying experience of free-running.
The Comparison to Dying Light 1
A frequent comparison is made between Dying Light 2 and its predecessor. Many argue that the first Dying Light offered a more engaging and cohesive experience, largely due to its stronger story and more atmospheric world. The horror elements in the original are also considered to be superior to the sequel’s. These comparisons often highlight where Dying Light 2 falls short of expectations, despite offering some improvements in gameplay. Dying Light 1 also had a better overall community opinion, and the introduction of paid microtransactions hurt the reputation of the second title considerably in the eyes of many players.
Conclusion: A Game of Missed Opportunities
So, is Dying Light 2 a flop? No, it’s not a failure in the sense of being commercially unsuccessful. It has sold millions of copies and has a dedicated player base. However, it’s also far from a resounding triumph. Dying Light 2 suffers from a number of issues that detract from its potential, particularly in regards to its story, characters, inconsistent controls and post launch monetization. These are issues that hold it back from reaching the heights of its predecessor.
Ultimately, Dying Light 2 is a game of missed opportunities. It has a solid foundation in its parkour mechanics and open-world design, but it’s undermined by various gameplay and narrative flaws. While future updates might address some of these issues, the initial impression of a rushed and somewhat disappointing sequel remains. It’s not a flop, but it’s not the slam dunk success that many were hoping for, either.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Dying Light 2
Here are 15 frequently asked questions about Dying Light 2 to provide additional insight and address common concerns:
1. Is Dying Light 2 worth playing now?
It depends on what you’re looking for. If you enjoy parkour and a large open world, Dying Light 2 offers that, and the developers continue to support it with updates. However, be prepared for a less compelling story than the first game. It’s not an absolute must play but can be enjoyable if you go in with adjusted expectations.
2. Why is Dying Light 2 often criticized?
Common criticisms include a weaker story and characters, repetitive combat, clunky controls at times, a less effective horror atmosphere compared to Dying Light 1, and controversial microtransaction additions.
3. Is Dying Light 2 more difficult than Dying Light 1?
Dying Light 2 is designed to be challenging, with more advanced gameplay mechanics. While some might perceive it as harder, others may adapt quickly. It is not overwhelmingly more difficult.
4. Are there guns in Dying Light 2?
Initially, no, but Techland has announced the future addition of firearms as part of their free content roadmap for 2023 and onwards.
5. How does Dying Light 2 compare to Dead Island 2?
Dying Light 2 offers a larger, more open-world experience with a greater emphasis on parkour. Dead Island 2 offers more detailed, smaller-scale locations. Both have their strengths.
6. How long does it take to complete Dying Light 2?
The main story takes about 24 hours to complete. Achieving 100% completion can take up to 95 hours or more.
7. How many endings does Dying Light 2 have?
Dying Light 2 has at least five different endings, depending on your choices throughout the game.
8. Is the parkour in Dying Light 2 better than in the first game?
Many find the parkour in Dying Light 2 to be more fluid and advanced but also more inconsistent due to occasional control issues. It is often described as having a higher skill ceiling than the first game.
9. Is there a weapon repair system in Dying Light 2?
Unlike the first game, weapons in Dying Light 2 cannot be repaired indefinitely. They have a limited lifespan, forcing players to scavenge or craft new ones.
10. Is the story in Dying Light 2 connected to the first game?
While set 22 years after Dying Light, Dying Light 2 features a new protagonist and a story that is not directly related to the plot of the first title. However, some characters from the first game are mentioned.
11. Is Dying Light 2 repetitive?
While the core gameplay loop can be enjoyable, the game can become repetitive due to similar enemy encounters and quest structures. The combat is often considered repetitive as well.
12. Who are the standout characters in Dying Light 2?
Hakon and Lawan are often cited as the most memorable characters from the sequel, thanks to their complex personalities and compelling character arcs.
13. Are Volatiles the hardest enemy in Dying Light 2?
Yes, Volatiles are considered the most dangerous infected in the game, known for their incredible speed and strength.
14. Why are there no guns in Dying Light 2, originally?
Lore wise, it’s explained as the military removing them, but from a gameplay perspective, the developers stated guns were overpowered in the first game and made balancing difficult.
15. What is the virus in Dying Light 2?
The Harran virus is a variant of rabies, which causes the infected to become aggressive and zombie-like.