Star Wars: The Force Unleashed II (Xbox 360) (From Daily Echo)

Star Wars: The Force Unleashed II (Xbox 360)

in Game Reviews By Ian Crump

Genre: Action

Platform: Xbox 360

Publisher: Activision

Classification: 16 (PEGI)

When Force Unleashed was actually unleashed upon the gaming public it delivered a game with energy, action, pace and style – it was a true force to be reckoned with. That was two years ago and now LucasArts new hope has struck back.

In those years however, everything on the action gaming front has changed. Games like God of War, Castlevania: Lords of Shadow and Beyonetta have all raised the bar for the genre. Unfortunately Force Unleashed hasn't risen to the occasion in the same way, and although it's not bad, it's not particularly captivating.

One thing that does appear to be improved upon is the combat. Now with Starkiller able to dual-wield his lightsabres, things seem smoother and a little more fluid whilst giving it some visual prowess. The physics from the explosions and deconstruction of scenery and items looks awesome, but the general detail can often seem quite stark and boring in contrast.

There are plenty of powers that look and feel incredibly satisfying, cameos from much-loved Star Wars characters and a storyline that, although weak, is still Star Wars.

But with no multiplayer and a single player mode that only lasts just over four hours, it's difficult to get properly involved. Sure there are some lightweight challenges to get stuck into and some Star Wars collectibles for fans to harvest – but it's just not enough.

For a series that started off with so much potential, it's almost heartbreaking to see it turn to the darkside in the way that it has.

SCORE: 4 / 10