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MONSTER

Darkest Dungeon II

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Darkest Dungeon II
Item: Darkest Dungeon II
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2023

GenresAdventure, Indie, Side View Perspective, RPG, Strategy, Military and Warfare, Single Player

AvailableMay 8, 2023

PlatformPC, Nintendo Switch, Xbox Series X, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, PlayStation 4

DeveloperRed Hook Studios

Overview

The eagerly awaited follow-up to Red Hook's smash hit gothic horror RPG! DDII will test your mettle and drive you to the brink of madness. Armor yourself with purpose and provision your party for the journey ahead. It will be arduous.

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Critics largely praise Darkest Dungeon II for its deep character lore and immersive Lovecraftian themes, noting a refreshing shift toward hope and redemption. While the fragmented storytelling encourages personal engagement, some argue it lacks a compelling central narrative and emotional depth. Overall, the game successfully blends traditional and emergent storytelling, offering a rich atmosphere and complex characters, though clarity and depth are points of contention.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

77%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

23%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The story of Darkest Dungeon II has garnered a largely positive reception among critics, who appreciate its intricate narrative structure and character development. Reviewers like KeenGamer and Hardcore Gamer highlight the depth of character lore and backstories, emphasizing how the game allows players to explore these narratives through gameplay and interactions. The Lovecraftian themes remain a strong point, with NintendoWorldReport and CGMagazine praising the dark atmosphere and the unpredictable events that enrich the players' journey. Critics such as Slant Magazine and Impulsegamer note a thematic shift towards hope and redemption, which adds a refreshing layer to the storytelling, contrasting with the despair of its predecessor. The fragmented storytelling approach, as noted by Movies Games and Tech, encourages players to engage their imagination, making the experience feel more personal and immersive. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the story's execution and depth. Some reviewers, including TheXboxHub and GRYOnline.pl, point out that while the narrative sets a dark atmosphere, it lacks a compelling central storyline compared to the original game. The fragmented storytelling, while intriguing, can lead to confusion, as highlighted by Player 2, who felt that the drip-feeding of narrative details caused a loss of the bigger picture. Additionally, some critics, like INVEN and Nintendo Life, mention that character relationships and interactions, while present, do not delve deeply enough to create a profound emotional impact, leaving aspects of the narrative feeling vague or underexplored. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Darkest Dungeon II presents a rich and engaging narrative that successfully builds on the themes of its predecessor while introducing new elements of hope and character development. While some reviewers express concerns about the depth and clarity of the story, many agree that the game excels in creating a dark, immersive atmosphere filled with complex characters and meaningful interactions. Critics such as CGMagazine and GamingTrend encapsulate this sentiment by noting the balance between traditional storytelling and emergent narratives, suggesting that the game offers a unique experience that can resonate with both newcomers and series veterans.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Darkest Dungeon II receives acclaim for its strategic depth and engaging mechanics, enhancing the beloved turn-based combat of its predecessor with new features like stress management and character relationships. Critics praise its intricate systems and roguelite structure for keeping gameplay fresh and challenging. However, some note repetitive early gameplay, a steep difficulty curve, and reliance on RNG as potential turn-offs. Despite these issues, the game is celebrated as a worthy successor, offering a rewarding and immersive experience that balances strategy and unpredictability for all players.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

90%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

10%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Darkest Dungeon II has garnered a largely positive reception from critics, who praise its depth, strategic elements, and engaging mechanics. Reviewers like Gfinity and Gameblog.fr highlight the game's turn-based combat, which retains the core elements of its predecessor while introducing new mechanics that enhance the experience. The emphasis on stress management and character relationships adds layers of complexity, making each encounter feel unique and challenging. Critics such as IGN and GAMINGbible appreciate the game's intricate systems, including the token mechanics and the meta-progression elements that encourage players to adapt their strategies. The roguelite structure, noted by Gamereactor UK and TouchArcade, injects variety into gameplay, allowing for different playthroughs and random events that keep players engaged. However, not all feedback is entirely positive. Some critics, like Gfinity and GameSkinny, mention that the initial stages of the game can feel repetitive, with the first half-hour often mirroring previous runs. The unforgiving difficulty level, as pointed out by Gamereactor UK and Finger Guns, can be daunting for newcomers, with luck playing a significant role in determining success. Additionally, the game’s reliance on RNG elements and the potential for tedious boss fights, as mentioned by Dexerto, may detract from the overall enjoyment for some players. The shift away from a centralized hub to independent chapters, noted by GAMES.CH, has also raised concerns about the grinding nature of early runs, which might frustrate players looking for a smoother progression. Despite these criticisms, the overall consensus among critics is that Darkest Dungeon II successfully builds on its predecessor, offering a rich and rewarding gameplay experience. Reviewers like GameGrin and Metro GameCentral emphasize the game's strategic depth and the importance of decision-making, which ultimately leads to a sense of accomplishment after overcoming its challenges. The introduction of new mechanics and the focus on character dynamics have been well-received, with many agreeing that the game provides a fresh take on the franchise while maintaining the dark, immersive atmosphere that fans love. Overall, Darkest Dungeon II is seen as a worthy successor that successfully combines strategy, challenge, and unpredictability, making it a compelling experience for both new and returning players.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Darkest Dungeon II impresses with its striking gothic visuals and immersive atmosphere, praised for its successful 3D transition and unique character designs. Critics laud its artistic direction as "visually stunning," enhancing the game's dark themes. However, some note issues with the user interface and character charm in the shift from 2D to 3D. Overall, the game's rich visual style earns widespread acclaim, overshadowing minor critiques.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

90%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

10%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The graphics and visual design of Darkest Dungeon II have garnered widespread acclaim from critics, with many praising the game's striking aesthetic and immersive atmosphere. Reviewers like SECTOR.sk highlighted the "dark and gothic atmosphere" coupled with "visually stunning worlds" that effectively capture Lovecraftian themes. Many critics noted the successful transition to 3D graphics, with Game Informer and GameGrin both emphasizing the "flashier combat animations" and "gorgeous gothic art style." The incorporation of unique character designs and richly detailed environments was frequently noted, with critics like Gameliner and BaziCenter praising the enhancements over the original game. The game's ability to maintain a coherent visual style while introducing new elements was also celebrated, as seen in the reviews from IGN and PC Gamer. However, not all feedback was overwhelmingly positive. Some critics pointed out issues with the user interface and readability. For instance, INVEN criticized the interface and Korean font for lacking sophistication, while Gamereactor UK echoed this sentiment, suggesting that the user interface needs improvement. Additionally, while the 3D graphics received praise, some reviewers like Push Square noted that certain character designs may have lost their charm in the transition from 2D to 3D. Multiplayer.it also mentioned that the graphics are similar to the first game, indicating a sense of familiarity that may not appeal to all players. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Darkest Dungeon II boasts a visually impressive and artistically rich presentation that significantly enhances the gaming experience. The majority of reviewers, including those from GameSkinny and IGN Italia, found the game's art direction to be "visually stunning" and "masterfully directed," contributing to an oppressive yet captivating atmosphere. While there are critiques regarding the user interface and some character designs, these do not overshadow the general appreciation for the game's artistic achievements. In summary, Darkest Dungeon II is recognized for its unique and haunting visual style, which successfully builds upon the foundation laid by its predecessor.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Darkest Dungeon II is lauded for its immersive sound design and music, with critics praising Wayne June's iconic narration and spot-on sound effects that enhance the game's dark atmosphere. While the audio quality is high, some reviewers noted a lack of variety in effects and music, suggesting room for improvement. Overall, the audio elements significantly enrich the gameplay, making it a standout feature despite minor concerns about repetitiveness.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

84%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

16%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The sound design and music of Darkest Dungeon II have received overwhelmingly positive feedback from critics, highlighting the game's ability to create an immersive and atmospheric experience. Reviewers such as But Why Tho? and CGMagazine praised the sensory sounds and intense music that complement the action-focused gameplay, with the latter noting the Victorian feel reminiscent of Bloodborne. The return of Wayne June as the narrator has been a significant highlight, with critics like Movies Games and Tech and KeenGamer emphasizing his deep, gravelly voice that adds gravitas and dark humor to the narrative. The sound effects, described as "spot-on" by Gamepressure and "superb" by Shacknews, further enhance the chilling ambiance, making players feel deeply engaged with the game's dark world. Despite the overall acclaim, some critics pointed out a few shortcomings. IGN Spain noted that the sound design lacked variety in effects and music, which could detract from the immersive experience. Vandal echoed this sentiment, suggesting that while the soundtrack maintains the intense atmosphere of the first game, it could benefit from more diversity. This concern about repetitiveness in the audio experience was echoed by a few other reviewers, indicating that while the quality is high, there is room for improvement in the range of soundscapes presented throughout the game. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Darkest Dungeon II excels in its sound design and music, creating a hauntingly immersive experience that enhances gameplay. The combination of well-crafted sound effects, a memorable soundtrack, and outstanding voice acting—particularly from Wayne June—has been widely praised. Critics like Gameblog.fr and SECTOR.sk highlighted how the audio-visual presentation captivates players and adds depth to the emotional narratives within the game. While some concerns about variety exist, the majority of reviews affirm that the audio elements significantly contribute to the game's dark fantasy atmosphere, making it a standout feature of Darkest Dungeon II.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Critics are raving about the voice acting in Darkest Dungeon II, particularly Wayne June's immersive narration, which adds depth to the game’s bleak atmosphere. While praised for enhancing storytelling, some reviews found his performance occasionally melodramatic and noted a lack of variety in character voices. Overall, the voice work is a standout feature that enriches the game's dark themes and emotional impact, making it a highlight in the gaming experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

75%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

25%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in Darkest Dungeon II has received overwhelmingly positive feedback from critics across various platforms. Many reviewers have lauded Wayne June's performance as the narrator, highlighting his gravelly and immersive voice that brings a unique warmth to the otherwise bleak atmosphere of the game. Critics from But Why Tho? and Gamepressure specifically praised June's award-nominated performance, which adds depth and gravitas to the storytelling. The fully voiced narration has been described as enhancing the overall experience, with GameGrin noting its contribution to the well-portrayed themes of the story. Additionally, the reactive narration mentioned by Slant Magazine and the character-specific voice-overs highlighted by Dexerto further enrich the game's narrative, creating a compelling and engaging experience for players. Despite the acclaim, there are a few critiques worth noting. While the majority of opinions are favorable, IGN pointed out that the narrator's melodramatic lines can come across as "overwrought," suggesting that the delivery might not resonate with everyone. Furthermore, RPG Fan's review, while acknowledging the narrator's deep observations, lacked detailed insights into the voice acting, indicating that some critics felt there was room for more character exploration beyond the narrator. Additionally, XboxEra mentioned that the voice acting is primarily focused on 'The Scholar,' which could imply a limited range of character voices compared to what might be expected in a game of this scale. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the voice acting in Darkest Dungeon II is a standout feature that significantly enhances the game's atmosphere and storytelling. With Wayne June's performance being a focal point of praise, many reviewers, including those from Nintendo Life and PlayStation Universe, emphasized its brilliance and essential role in creating an immersive experience. The positive sentiment is clear, as the majority of critics agree that the voice acting is not only well-executed but also integral to the game's dark themes and emotional weight, solidifying its place as a highlight in the gaming experience.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Darkest Dungeon II shines on PC with rave reviews for stability, visuals, and gameplay, marking a major leap from early access. In contrast, the Nintendo Switch version struggles with UI issues and crashes, leading to a mixed reception. Both Xbox Series X and PS5 versions are generally positive but suffer from navigation hiccups, indicating they still need polishing. Overall, PC is the clear winner, while the Switch lags behind significantly.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

39%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

61%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

In analyzing the technical performance of Darkest Dungeon II across various platforms, it is clear that the PC version is receiving overwhelmingly positive feedback from critics. Reviewers such as GRYOnline.pl and IGN Italia highlight the game's stability, responsiveness, and visually stunning art style, with IGN Italia specifically praising its excellent audio design. SECTOR.sk adds to this sentiment by noting the immersive battles and revamped monsters, while Ragequit.gr emphasizes the addictive gameplay and positive progression system that align with the franchise's reputation. Overall, the PC version is seen as a significant evolution from its early access phase, with improvements in gameplay mechanics and character relationships. Conversely, the Nintendo Switch version presents a mixed bag of technical performance. Critics like CGMagazine and GAMINGbible point out issues with UI accessibility and cumbersome menu navigation, which detracts from the overall experience. Impulsegamer raises concerns about frequent crashes, although he acknowledges the autosave feature that mitigates potential loss of progress. Nintenderos also mentions bugs and crashes affecting gameplay, while Pure Nintendo reports a mostly stable experience with only one significant bug encountered. This inconsistency in performance on the Switch suggests a less polished experience compared to the PC version. On the other hand, NintendoWorldReport offers a more positive note, stating that the performance is stable and smooth for handheld play. When considering the Xbox Series X and PS5 versions, the consensus is generally favorable, although some issues persist. XboxEra notes that the game runs smoothly with minimal bugs, indicating good optimization across platforms. However, TheXboxHub mentions menu system issues that are better suited for keyboard and mouse, while Finger Guns and GamePro Germany highlight console-centric hiccups, such as verbose UI and occasional stutters or crashes. GamingTrend echoes these concerns about clunky menu navigation on PS5, suggesting that the game may not fully capitalize on the console's capabilities. Overall, while the PC version stands out for its technical excellence, the Switch version faces significant challenges, and both the PS5 and Xbox Series X versions have room for improvement in user interface and navigation.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Darkest Dungeon II earns mostly positive marks for its replay value, thanks to its roguelite structure, new hero types, and the Candle of Hope system that enhance the gaming experience. Critics praise the diverse character combinations and strategic depth, ensuring no two playthroughs are alike. However, concerns linger about quickly discovering optimal strategies, potential repetition, and the grind of progression, which could deter some players. Ultimately, while it may not satisfy traditional sequel expectations, the game's unique mechanics and unlockables promise to keep players engaged for hundreds of hours, making it a solid choice for roguelite fans.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

69%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

31%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of Darkest Dungeon II is largely positive among critics, highlighting the game's robust design and engaging mechanics. Many reviewers, such as IGN and Game Informer, emphasize the game's roguelite structure, which facilitates varied experiences with each playthrough. The introduction of new hero types, permanent upgrades, and the Candle of Hope system, as noted by PLAY! Zine, enhances the replayability by making subsequent attempts more manageable. Critics like Gfinity and Hardcore Gamer appreciate the diversity of character combinations and the strategic depth available, allowing players to experiment with different team compositions and strategies. The procedural generation and random drops, as mentioned by IGN Italia and CGMagazine, further contribute to the uniqueness of each run, ensuring that players remain engaged over extended periods. However, several critics express concerns regarding the game's replay value, pointing out potential drawbacks that may affect player enjoyment. Gfinity notes that the quickly discoverable optimal team compositions can stifle creativity, making the game feel less replayable compared to its predecessor. Critics like INVEN and Twinfinite mention the risk of repetition and boredom, particularly as players navigate through the game's challenging acts. Additionally, the reliance on luck and the grind associated with character progression, as highlighted by IGN, may deter some players from fully engaging with the game. The time commitment required for significant progression, as pointed out by PC Gamer and GameGrin, could also be a barrier for those seeking a more casual gaming experience. Despite the mixed opinions, the overall consensus among critics is that Darkest Dungeon II offers substantial replay value, particularly for players who appreciate its roguelite mechanics and strategic depth. While some reviewers, such as GamingTrend and Movies Games and Tech, note that the game may not satisfy those looking for a traditional sequel experience, the majority agree that the combination of unlockable characters, varied strategies, and the potential for unique outcomes keeps players returning for more. Critics like Finger Guns and XboxEra encapsulate this sentiment by asserting that the game can easily draw players back into its world for hundreds of hours, making it a worthwhile investment for fans of the genre.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

78%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

21%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The overall sentiment surrounding "Darkest Dungeon II" is predominantly positive, with many critics praising its enhancements over the original game. Reviewers like KeenGamer and Siliconera highlight the game's engaging gameplay, improved visuals, and compelling narrative, suggesting that it successfully builds upon the strengths of its predecessor. The art style and atmospheric elements have also received acclaim, with publications such as Gameblog.fr and Pure Nintendo noting the captivating visuals and sound design that contribute to an immersive experience. Critics like Impulsegamer and Slant Magazine appreciate the introduction of new mechanics and themes, emphasizing that the game offers a unique take on the roguelike genre while retaining the essence of what made the first game enjoyable. However, not all feedback is entirely positive, as several critics express concerns regarding the game's complexity and reliance on randomness. For instance, Gamereactor UK mentions that the game's progression feels underwhelming, while IGN Spain notes shortcomings in sound design. The steep learning curve and RNG elements have been pointed out by multiple reviewers, including IGN and Twinfinite, as potential barriers for some players. Additionally, GamePro Germany and Hey Poor Player highlight that the game may not fully satisfy those seeking a direct sequel to the original, indicating that some fans might be disappointed by the changes. Despite these criticisms, the overall consensus among critics is that "Darkest Dungeon II" is a worthy sequel that offers a rewarding and challenging experience. Many reviewers, including RPG Fan and GameSkinny, describe it as a must-play for fans of the series, emphasizing its depth and replayability. While some players may struggle with the new mechanics or feel overwhelmed by the complexity, the majority agree that the game successfully captures the dark spirit of the original while providing a fresh and engaging adventure. The positive reception suggests that "Darkest Dungeon II" has carved out its own identity within the roguelike genre and is likely to resonate well with both returning fans and newcomers alike.

TL;DR

"Darkest Dungeon II" earns mostly positive reviews for its engaging gameplay, stunning visuals, and rich narrative, building on the original's strengths. Critics praise its unique take on the roguelike genre but note issues with complexity and randomness. While some fans may be disappointed by the changes, the game is generally seen as a worthy sequel that offers depth and replayability, appealing to both longtime fans and newcomers.

MONSTER

Reviews

110 reviews found

The Games Machine

May 8, 2023