When news emerged last year that a second instalment for Radical Entertainment's superhero stompfest Prototype was in the pipeline for 2012, it raised more than a few wry eyebrows. After all, at a glance Prototype isn't the most likely candidate for a sequel.
Prototype 2 looks set to be one of the surprises of the year, with Official PlayStation Magazine UK following up GamesMaster's 86% review with an even more impressive 9/10.
In its next issue writer Rob Taylor describes the Activision sequel as, "the ultimate manifestation of comic book violence". "The combat recalls GOW meets Arkham City, though it's far more simplistic," he explains. While it's not perfect - "The oft-repeated dodge moves and finishers against tougher identikit enemies grate before the end"- it is, according to Taylor, "a far stronger game in every aspect than the original and a compelling counterpoint to Infamous 2″.
He closes by describing it as, "a gore-packed sandbox masterpiece". There's a box quote for you.
In its new issue GamesMaster says of the game: "Prototype 2 gives power to the player in ways many titles can only dream of. It gives you options, it lets you explore and experiment, and it's a riotous and compulsive experience. Drink it in."
Good stuff. Activision recently released a slightly emotional live-action trailer for Prototype 2, but if you'd prefer straight up face-smashing gameplay, have a gander at this recent tank mayhem trailer.
Some Trailer
The events of Prototype 2 takes place in New York City, now known as New York Zero (NYZ), following Sgt. James Heller on his quest to destroy Alex Mercer, after having lost everything and everyone he loved to the Blacklight virus.
After being infected with the Blacklight virus that transformed New York into the deadly New York Zero, Prototype 2‘s
protagonist, Sgt. James Heller, finds he has a range of powers that
help him in his quest to avenge the death of his murdered wife and
daughter. This week we take a look at the Claws and Blade Arms mutations
and how to use them.
Claws
The fastest all the offensive powers, Claws enable a savage and animalistic fighting style that combine speed and mobility to eviscerate enemies with multiple blades. They are highly effective against unarmoured ground units, and allow Heller to pounce from target to target to overwhelm his prey with the sheer volume and speed of his strikes.
Blade Arm
A power that combines speed and fury into large arcing attacks. By slicing effortlessly through the battlefield, the Blade is highly effective against large groups of ground units. Charge the Blade attack to unleash a furious Tornado that that spins Heller through groups of hapless targets to make one very disgusting, yet protein rich smoothie.
Prototype 2 is
set for release throughout PAL territories on 24th April 2012,
simultaneously on PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360, with a PC version to
follow at a later date. Electronic Theatre will keep you updated with all the latest details on Prototype 2 and other forthcoming titles from Activision.