Video Game Review: The Division 2
John Beck reviews this online action role-playing video game by Ubisoft in May's web exclusive game review.Set in a post-biological attack America, “Tom Clancy’s The Division 2” is based on a study conducted on June 21-23, 2001 by the John Hopkins Center for Civilian Biodefense Strategies/Center for Strategic and International Studies to measure the effects of bioterrorism in the United States. The “Dollar Flu” causes a complete collapse of the American civilization in a matter of days. The gas stopped flowing and the food stopped finding its way to the store, which caused a “Lord of the Flies” regression to the anarchy that envelops the country. This game sequel focuses primarily on the continuation of government and takes place in Washington D.C.
Mechanically, Ubisoft (the video game company) took everything wrong with the first game and delivered a smooth game right from the start. Fast travel is simple, which makes conquering zones and upgrading settlements a breeze. The settlement mechanic makes for a great addition to the franchise, making your gameplay reflect in the world. Transitioning from world map to mission mode is seamless. The streets of D.C. have been turned to anarchy and present a real danger to the player who ventures out on them, providing you with continuous and tense action sequences.
This is a game made to be played with four players and will constantly send you alerts or allows you to send alerts to create that preferred four-player squad. It is in the nature of the game to band together with others so if you are looking for a solo experience you should look elsewhere. While utilizing the cover mechanic, your character takes a significant mobility reduction. If you choose not to utilize cover, you will be ripped to shreds. “Enemy spawns” during missions are sporadic and unpredictable. They will spawn behind, and you will need to push out from a pincer at least once a mission.
It’s a unique take on the RPG Squad Shooter. It succeeds in creating chaos and showing both the good and bad of human nature. The drawbacks are clear and up front, but the pros outweigh the cons in this game. The loot drops in every mission are fantastic and you are not locked into one play style. If you’re looking for a game to play with friends, Division 2 offers a great cooperative play experience.
With its unique take on the RPG Squad Shooter, this game succeeds in creating chaos and showing both the good and bad of human nature. The drawbacks are clear and upfront, but the pros outweigh the cons. The “loot drops” in every mission are fantastic and you are not locked into one playstyle. If you’re looking for a game to play with friends, “The Division 2” offers a great cooperative play experience.
Peer Rating: 4/5
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