Tom Clancy's The Division 2 Review
Gear up, Agent, it's time to take back D.C.
Reviewed by Unoriginalplayer
Graphics
It is easy to say that Tom Clancy's The Division 2 looks almost identical to the first game. There are a lot of similarities between the two games; however, the added effects and overall aesthetics of the sequel help make it stand out over the first game. Character models are still a hit or miss depending on who appears in the few cutscenes. Although, it does not detract from the overall game, trying to care about a fellow ally who is pouring their heart out to you is very hard to do when their lifeless eyes are darting back and forth around the room. Particle effects are top notch with fire and smoke looking exceptionally good (the chem launcher is a definite standout).
Verdict: The graphics are not a complete overhaul from the first game (to be expected); yet, the numerous subtle changes add a flair to the game that helps immerse you into the world of a Division agent.
Sound
The sound is an absolute highlight of the game. Throughout the world you come across portable devices, echos, and in-game banter that help flesh out what happened and what is happening to the nation's capitol. These little bits of story are voiced really well and give way to a sense of urgency with the community at large. All of the guns sound varied with more powerful guns exploding through the headset and less powerful sub machine guns and pistols, while sounding great, aren't as beefy as their bigger brothers. The music is some of the best a game has offered in a long time with deep bass tracks pounding away while you try to survive and more ambient tones while searching the ruins of a once proud city.
Verdict: The sound in The Division 2 is just simply amazing. From the explosions echoing through the desolate streets, to the roar of a mounted machine gun tearing through a mob trying to take back a control point. Top all of that with a near perfect soundtrack and you have the entire package when it comes to sound.
Gameplay
When it comes to the type of gameplay you expect from a looter shooter, The Division 2 does not disappoint. Character movement feels grounded with button input responses taking place almost immediately which is key in a game where you can be overrun by baddies in a matter of seconds. The trek to the endgame never feels like a grind with some of the best side missions since the Witcher 3. They are not as in depth as the Witcher made them; however, they are more rooted in the world than the first game or any other open world game for that matter. Hit detection is spot on with every bullet being a crucial factor in taking out the enemy. That last round in a mag could be the difference between life and death. Endgame opens up an invaded D.C. pitting you against an elite army known as the Black Tusk. Specializations allow you to take your agent down specific roles with perks that become key to success against the higher caliber adversaries you will battle against. It is just different enough that revisiting the same mission areas still feels fresh when taking on a new, stronger, and more deadly enemy.
Final Verdict: No game based around looting is good unless it is a blast to play. The Division 2 is a perfect example of taking a great foundation and building it into something that can stand on its own from start to finish. The controls are tight, the sound is incredible, and there is enough here to keep you playing well after the initial story with more content on the horizon. Welcome to the Division, Agent.
