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MONSTER

Dead Island 2

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Dead Island 2
Item: Dead Island 2
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2023

GenresAdventure, Action, Shooter, Comedy, Horror, Open World, RPG, Single Player, Multiplayer, First Person Perspective

AvailableApr 21, 2023

PlatformPlayStation 5, PC, Xbox Series X

DeveloperDeep Silver Dambuster Studios

Overview

The much-loved zombie saga is back with a unique formula of horror, dark humor and over the top zombie-slaying, spanning an epic pulp adventure. Dead Island 2 is thrilling First-Person Action RPG, stylish, vibrant and flooded with zombie infection. Explore iconic, gore-drenched Los Angeles. Meet larger-than-life characters. Slay countless foes in exquisitely bloody detail. And evolve to become the ultimate Zombie Slayer!

Elsewhere

7.6

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Dead Island 2's story earns mixed reviews; praised for humor and character dynamics but criticized for a lack of depth and originality. While it offers entertaining moments, the narrative feels thin and predictable, often relying on zombie clichés. Ultimately, it serves more as a backdrop for gameplay than a compelling tale, appealing mainly to fans of the series but unlikely to leave a lasting impact.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

16%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

68%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

16%

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

The story of Dead Island 2 has garnered some positive feedback from critics, particularly regarding its humorous tone and character dynamics. Critics like Eurogamer Poland and Player 2 highlight the engaging and well-written characters that add charm to the narrative, despite its clichéd elements. The game’s ability to blend humor with the seriousness of a zombie apocalypse is noted by Dexerto, who appreciates how the characters cope with their dire circumstances while finding moments of levity. Additionally, some reviewers, such as Destructoid, mention that the story evolves into a compelling tale of survival, suggesting that there are redeeming qualities that keep players invested. However, the majority of critics express significant concerns about the story's lack of depth and originality. Reviews from Gamer.nl, MeuPlayStation, and Inverse describe the narrative as thin and predictable, with many pointing out that it relies heavily on familiar zombie tropes and clichés. The side missions are often criticized for feeling disconnected from the main storyline, as noted by MeuPlayStation and CD-Action. Furthermore, several critics, including IGN and Games.cz, mention that the writing is subpar, with a B-movie quality that fails to deliver a profound or memorable experience. The overall sentiment is that while the game attempts to provide a humorous backdrop, it ultimately falls short in delivering a compelling narrative. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Dead Island 2 offers some entertaining moments and a light-hearted approach to the zombie genre, it is marred by a lack of originality and depth in its storytelling. Many reviewers, such as Game Informer and IGN Italia, emphasize that the narrative serves primarily as a backdrop for the gameplay rather than as a compelling element in its own right. Critics like Vandal and GamingTrend acknowledge the game's entertainment value, but they also indicate that it doesn't transcend the limitations of its genre. Ultimately, Dead Island 2 may appeal to fans of the series or those seeking a humorous zombie experience, but it is unlikely to leave a lasting impression due to its predictable and clichéd narrative.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Dead Island 2 offers satisfying melee combat and a fun co-op experience, but it struggles with balance issues, repetitive gameplay, and outdated mechanics. Critics appreciate its visceral zombie dismemberment and environmental interactions, yet many feel it lacks depth and variety, leading to disappointment. While it delivers engaging moments for genre fans, it ultimately fails to innovate, leaving a sense of missed potential.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

59%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

37%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Dead Island 2 has garnered a mixed reception from critics, with several positive aspects highlighted across various reviews. Many reviewers, such as Trusted Reviews and GamesHub, praised the melee combat, describing it as satisfying and engaging, with the innovative F.L.E.S.H. system enhancing the visceral experience of dismembering zombies. Critics like Gamer.no and Gamerreactor UK noted the semi-open world design and the variety of weapons and character abilities, which contribute to a sense of freedom and creativity in combat. The game encourages players to interact with the environment strategically, as mentioned by ComicBook and But Why Tho?, adding layers to the gameplay experience. Furthermore, the inclusion of co-op play, as highlighted by Xbox Tavern, is seen as a positive enhancement, making the game more enjoyable when played with friends. Despite these strengths, numerous critics pointed out significant issues that detract from the overall gameplay experience. Reviewers like Noisy Pixel and Shacknews criticized the combat for its balance issues and lack of impact, leading to a frustrating experience, especially when faced with multiple enemies. The repetitiveness of combat and missions was a common theme, with GameOver.gr and Gamer.no noting how the gameplay can become monotonous over time due to simplistic mechanics and uninspired objectives. Additionally, Inverse and Guardian mentioned that the gameplay feels outdated, lacking the evolution seen in modern action-adventure games, which may leave players wanting more depth and variety. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Dead Island 2 has appealing elements, particularly in its melee combat and environmental interactions, it suffers from significant flaws that hamper its potential. Critics like Hardcore Gamer and GameSpot acknowledged the combat system as a highlight, yet they also pointed out that the lack of mission variety and depth can lead to a repetitive experience. The game appears to cater well to fans of the genre looking for visceral action, yet many reviewers agree that it falls short of delivering a fully engaging and polished gameplay experience. As such, while there are enjoyable moments, the overall sentiment leans towards disappointment due to the game's failure to innovate and maintain player interest over time.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Dead Island 2 dazzles with vibrant graphics and detailed visuals of Los Angeles, earning praise for its colorful environments and realistic gore effects. However, critics lament its restrictive exploration, character animation issues, and minor visual glitches, which hinder immersion. While the artistic direction shines, the game falls short of perfection due to these inconsistencies.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

66%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

34%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The graphics and visual design of Dead Island 2 have received considerable praise from various critics, particularly for their vibrant and detailed representation of Los Angeles. Many reviewers, such as Gamereactor UK and PlayStation LifeStyle, highlight the game's ability to create a visually stunning environment filled with color and life, even amidst the chaos of a zombie apocalypse. The attention to detail in the gore effects, as noted by Player 2 and The Jimquisition, adds a layer of realism and excitement to combat, enhancing the overall experience. Critics like Digital Spy and AusGamers commend the game's artistic graphics, which effectively blend the sunny aesthetics of California with the gruesome elements of the undead, creating a unique visual narrative. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the game's visual design. Some reviewers, like Guardian and CD-Action, express disappointment with the game's lack of exploration freedom, suggesting that the gated sections make Los Angeles feel more like a theme park than a real, immersive world. Others, such as Gamer.nl and Vandal, point out issues with character animations and minor visual glitches that detract from the overall experience. Critics like Noisy Pixel and Hey Poor Player mention a lack of attention to detail in certain areas, such as reflections and environmental interactions, which could have elevated the game's visual fidelity. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Dead Island 2 showcases impressive graphics and vibrant environments, it falls short in certain aspects of visual design and world-building. The game's colorful and detailed settings receive acclaim, yet the limitations in exploration and minor graphical flaws prevent it from achieving a truly immersive experience. Critics like MGG and Everyeye.it acknowledge the game's artistic direction and the attention to gore, but also note the need for more polish in character animations and environmental interactions. Ultimately, Dead Island 2 presents a visually appealing experience that captivates with its aesthetics but is marred by some inconsistencies.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Dead Island 2 impresses with immersive sound design and music that enhance gameplay, praised for excellent voice acting and visceral combat sounds. Critics highlight a well-curated soundtrack that elevates intensity. However, some criticize incohesive sound design, random music placements, and a lack of Spanish voice acting, which can disrupt immersion. Overall, while not without flaws, the audio elements create a compelling backdrop for the zombie-action experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

49%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

49%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The sound design and music of Dead Island 2 have garnered a largely positive reception from critics, highlighting its immersive qualities and effective audio elements. Reviewers such as CGMagazine and Gamereactor Finland praised the excellent voice acting and the well-thought-out sound effects that contribute to the game's atmosphere. The immersive combat sounds, particularly noted by Vgames and TrueAchievements, enhance the gameplay experience, making encounters feel visceral and engaging. Additionally, the soundtrack has been described as well-curated, with specific tracks elevating the intensity of combat and setting the right mood, as mentioned by LevelUp and GRYOnline.pl. Critics like COGconnected and Destructoid emphasized how the music complements gameplay, providing audio cues that signal intense moments and enhance the overall immersion. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the sound design and music that detract from the overall experience. Shacknews pointed out that the sound design can feel incohesive, leading to a disconnection from the game's narrative and tone. Some critics, such as PlaySense and Vandal, expressed concerns about the music being randomly played and not always fitting the on-screen action, which can disrupt immersion. Additionally, while the English voice acting has been praised, the lack of Spanish voice acting was highlighted by Generación Xbox as a downside, suggesting that it limits accessibility for non-English speakers. Critics like Everyeye.it and PlaySense also noted inconsistencies in the quality of voice acting, with some performances not hitting the mark. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Dead Island 2 features strong sound design and music that significantly enhance the gameplay experience, despite some inconsistencies. Many reviewers, including Malditos Nerds and WellPlayed, noted that the audio elements contribute to the game's immersive zombie movie atmosphere, making it an engaging experience for players. While there are criticisms regarding certain aspects, such as the lack of variety in music and voice acting quality, the majority of reviewers agree that the audio design effectively supports the game's themes and mechanics, creating a compelling auditory backdrop for the action.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Dead Island 2 features standout voice acting praised for its humor and character personality, making the dialogue engaging and entertaining. However, critics highlight inconsistencies, such as flat NPCs and poorly delivered lines, which detract from the overall experience. While the voice performances enhance the game’s charm, significant flaws hold it back, creating a mixed reception among players.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

33%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

59%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The voice acting in Dead Island 2 has received a mix of praise from various critics, particularly for its ability to inject humor and personality into the characters. Critics like CGMagazine and Checkpoint Gaming highlight the excellent voice performances that complement the game's humorous writing, with Checkpoint Gaming noting that the characters embody Hollywood stereotypes, which adds to the entertainment value. Many reviewers, including Gamers' Temple and Cultured Vultures, appreciate the distinct personalities brought to life through the voice acting, with standout performances from characters like Dani, as mentioned by Gaming Nexus and Dexerto. The overall engagement with the dialogue has been recognized, with players enjoying the witty and entertaining exchanges, further enhancing the game's atmosphere. Despite the positive aspects, several reviewers have pointed out significant shortcomings in the voice acting. AusGamers and Gamereactor UK criticize the lack of depth in character portrayal, particularly among NPCs who offer side quests, describing them as flat and unmemorable. Shacknews echoes this sentiment, stating that the dialogue construction leads to disengagement with the characters and the story. Moreover, some critics, such as Hey Poor Player and Trusted Reviews, have noted instances of clunky or poorly delivered lines that detract from the overall experience. This inconsistency in quality has led to mixed feelings about the effectiveness of the voice acting throughout the game. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while the voice acting in Dead Island 2 has its strengths—particularly in delivering humor and character depth—it is marred by inconsistencies and a lack of engagement in certain areas. Critics like IGN and WellPlayed commend the high-quality performances that enhance the comedic elements, yet others like Everyeye.it and Press Start Australia highlight the unevenness in execution. This duality suggests that while the voice acting contributes positively to the game's charm, it also suffers from flaws that prevent it from reaching its full potential, leaving players with a somewhat mixed experience.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Dead Island 2 impresses with smooth performance and high frame rates on PS5, Xbox Series X, and PC, but is plagued by persistent bugs and glitches, especially in multiplayer. While PS5 reviews are mixed due to technical issues, Xbox Series X is generally stable, and PC has minor hiccups. Overall, the game shows promise but needs more polish to fully realize its potential.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

39%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

60%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The technical performance of Dead Island 2 has garnered a mix of positive feedback across various platforms. On the PlayStation 5, many critics, including GamePro Germany and Gamers' Temple, noted that the game runs smoothly with stable frame rates, often at 60 FPS, which is commendable given the fast-paced nature of the gameplay. Critics like MeuPlayStation praised the optimization, highlighting the game's ability to maintain performance even in cooperative modes. Similarly, Xbox Series X players have reported a solid experience, with critics such as But Why Tho? and AusGamers emphasizing the polished visual fidelity and responsiveness, indicating that the game runs flawlessly on this platform. Additionally, PC players have also shared positive sentiments, with reviews from TrueGaming and Ragequit.gr noting smooth performance and effective use of Unreal Engine 4. However, the technical performance of Dead Island 2 is not without its issues. On the PlayStation 5, several critics, including IGN and TierraGamer, pointed out persistent technical bugs, glitches, and frame rate drops that detract from the overall experience, particularly in multiplayer modes. Critics like CD-Action and Gamer.nl hinted at a lack of polish, suggesting that the game could have benefited from additional development time. For the Xbox Series X, while many reviews were positive, there were still mentions of minor bugs and occasional audio-video synchronization issues, as noted by Gamereactor Finland. On PC, despite generally favorable reviews, some critics like Windows Central and MGG pointed out occasional frame rate issues and performance hiccups, particularly after pausing the game. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Dead Island 2 offers a solid technical performance across platforms, it is marred by a series of minor yet notable issues that can impact gameplay. The PlayStation 5 version appears to have the most mixed reviews, with many praising the frame rate but also highlighting bugs and glitches that disrupt the experience. The Xbox Series X version is generally viewed as more stable, with fewer complaints about performance, though some critics still noted minor issues. The PC version has received a largely positive reception, with few reported problems, although some critics suggested that further optimization could enhance the experience. In summary, while Dead Island 2 showcases potential and solid performance, it still requires further refinement to reach its full capabilities across all platforms.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Dead Island 2 offers a mixed bag for replay value. Critics praise its cooperative mode and character diversity, which encourage multiplayer fun and varied playstyles. However, the game suffers from repetitive gameplay and a lack of engaging content post-story, leading many to question its long-term appeal. While some elements spark potential for multiple playthroughs, the overall sentiment leans toward disappointment, suggesting the game may quickly lose its charm.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

19%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

72%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The opinions regarding the replay value of Dead Island 2 reveal a mixed sentiment among critics, with several highlighting notable positives. Many reviewers appreciate the game's cooperative mode, which enhances the overall experience and encourages players to return for multiplayer sessions. For instance, Malditos Nerds expressed a desire to replay the game with friends to fully enjoy the cooperative features, while Checkpoint Gaming emphasized that playing with a co-op partner makes the experience more enjoyable. Additionally, the variety of playable characters and their unique abilities, as noted by Gamers' Temple and Cultured Vultures, provide opportunities for different playstyles, which can entice players to explore the game further. Critics like Metro GameCentral and Digital Chumps also mentioned that the card-based skill system allows for customization and experimentation, adding layers to the gameplay that may encourage multiple playthroughs. Conversely, many reviewers pointed out significant drawbacks that limit the game's replay value. The repetitive nature of gameplay was a common theme, with critics like PC Gamer and Press Start Australia noting that the lack of engaging content after completing the main story and side quests leads to a diminished incentive to replay. Jeuxvideo.com echoed this sentiment, stating that while the game has cooperative elements, it suffers from repetitiveness after several hours, which may deter players from revisiting. Additionally, We Got This Covered and Hardcore Gamer highlighted the formulaic nature of the game, suggesting that the excitement may wane quickly, making it less appealing for long-term engagement. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Dead Island 2 offers some replay value through its cooperative gameplay and character diversity, the repetitive nature of its quests and tasks significantly undermines its longevity. Critics such as Everyeye.it and LevelUp noted that although the game provides a decent amount of content, the enjoyment might diminish after a few hours, leading to a mixed reception regarding its replayability. Ultimately, while there are elements that can enhance replay value, the pervasive issues of repetitiveness and lack of depth seem to overshadow them, leaving many reviewers feeling that the game may not hold players' interest for extended periods.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

50%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

49%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

In analyzing the overall sentiment regarding Dead Island 2, it is evident that several reviewers appreciate the game’s engaging combat mechanics and vibrant environments. Critics like Gaming Nexus and Windows Central highlight the fun and satisfying combat, praising it as a significant improvement over its predecessor. The game’s ability to deliver chaotic zombie-slaying action is noted by multiple reviewers, including Game Informer, who appreciates its B-movie horror comedy vibe, and God is a Geek, who describes it as a fun and gruesome sandbox experience. Additionally, Gfinity commends the game for its graphical prowess and arcade-like feel, while Jeuxvideo.com acknowledges its strong return to the franchise despite not revolutionizing the genre. Conversely, many critics express disappointment over Dead Island 2’s repetitive gameplay, lackluster story, and failure to innovate. PC Gamer and GameOver.gr are particularly vocal about the game’s shortcomings, with the latter suggesting it should have been left unreleased. Reviewers like CD-Action and Hardcore Gamer echo these sentiments, pointing out that despite some enjoyable elements, the game ultimately falls short of expectations due to its uninspired narrative and repetitive mechanics. Critics such as GGRecon and Telegraph also note that while the game offers some fun moments, it lacks depth and can feel underwhelming overall. Overall, the consensus among critics is mixed, with a notable divide between those who find enjoyment in the game’s combat and aesthetic and those who criticize its lack of innovation and depth. While some, like XboxAddict and GAMES.CH, view it as a successful sequel and a fun experience, others, including PC Gamer and Gamer.nl, emphasize its flaws and shortcomings. The game seems to cater primarily to fans of the original series, as evidenced by comments from Atomix and Daily Star, who suggest that it may not appeal to newcomers or those seeking a more substantial narrative experience. Ultimately, Dead Island 2 is characterized as a game that, while entertaining in its own right, struggles to stand out in a saturated genre.

TL;DR

Dead Island 2 delivers thrilling combat and vibrant visuals, winning over some critics with its chaotic zombie-slaying fun and B-movie charm. However, a significant number of reviewers slam its repetitive gameplay and uninspired story, deeming it a missed opportunity. While fans of the original may find enjoyment, newcomers might be left wanting more depth and innovation. The end verdict? A mixed bag that entertains but fails to distinguish itself in a crowded market.

MONSTER

Reviews

223 reviews found

TheXboxHub

Xbox Series X

Apr 18, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Dead Island 2 is a highly enjoyable and satisfying zombie game with dark humor and gratuitous violence.

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Gamereactor Finland

Xbox Series X

Apr 20, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The game is highly praised for its engaging gameplay, immersive world, satisfying combat mechanics, and captivating storytelling. The minor drawbacks include a tedious character development system and excessive difficulty towards the end.

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Windows Central

Apr 18, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Dead Island 2 is an amazing action-horror game with fun and satisfying combat, creative level design, and a hilarious script, making it a must-play for both Dead Island fans and zombie game enthusiasts.

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Finger Guns

PlayStation 5

Apr 18, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Dead Island 2 is a fun and visually impressive game that successfully revives the franchise with engaging gameplay and a vibrant world, despite some minor issues.

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The Games Machine

PlayStation 5

Apr 18, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Dead Island 2 is described as a fun, gore-filled experience that excels in its slasher gameplay and visual design, appealing to fans of ultraviolence and old-school action.

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Hobby Consolas

PlayStation 5

Apr 18, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Dead Island 2 es una experiencia satisfactoria que combina humor y acción en un mundo abierto. A pesar de algunos momentos de ritmo lento, es un juego divertido y emocionante.

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Xbox Tavern

Xbox Series X

Apr 21, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Dead Island 2 is recommended for its stunning graphics, improved combat, refreshing features like level-up progression cards and curveball weapons, and enjoyable co-op experience. The game offers a good balance between gritty and humorous storytelling.

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Generación Xbox

Xbox Series X

Apr 18, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Dead Island 2 is a fun and engaging zombie action game that successfully combines humor with intense gameplay. While not perfect, it excels in its core mechanics and offers a rewarding experience for players.

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GAMES.CH

Xbox Series X

Apr 18, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The game is praised as the best installment in the series. The review mentions that the game is not only good but also utilizes the long-awaited zombie action well. The developers are commended for their efforts.

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DualShockers

PlayStation 5

Apr 18, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Dead Island 2 is a worthy successor to the franchise with an immersive world, engaging combat, and memorable characters.

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