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Jurassic World Evolution 2

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Jurassic World Evolution 2
Item: Jurassic World Evolution 2
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2021

GenresAdventure, Action, Science Fiction and Futuristic, Simulation, Top-Down Perspective, Strategy, Single Player

AvailableNov 9, 2021

PlatformPC, Xbox Series X, Xbox One, PlayStation 5

DeveloperFrontier Developments

Overview

Jurassic World Evolution 2 is the much-anticipated sequel to Frontier’s ground-breaking 2018 management simulation, Jurassic World Evolution, offering an all new narrative campaign voiced by cast members from across the Jurassic World film franchise, exciting new features, four engaging game modes, and an expanded roster of awe-inspiring dinosaurs.

Elsewhere

7.7

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Jurassic World Evolution 2 aims high with its connection to the cinematic universe, featuring beloved characters and an engaging Chaos Theory mode that lets players explore alternate film scenarios. However, critics slam the main campaign as a shallow, repetitive tutorial that can be beaten in just five to six hours, offering little depth or meaningful challenges. Overall, while the nostalgia and premise hold potential, the lackluster execution of the main story severely undercuts the experience, marking a missed opportunity for richer storytelling in a franchise known for its iconic narratives.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

69%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

22%

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

The story of Jurassic World Evolution 2 has received some commendation for its attempts to connect with the established cinematic universe, particularly its setting after Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom. Critics like GamingBolt and TheXboxHub note that the game features familiar characters such as Claire Dearing and Dr. Ian Malcolm, which helps to ground the narrative in the franchise’s lore. Additionally, the inclusion of the Chaos Theory mode, as highlighted by IGN France and Jeuxvideo.com, allows players to explore alternate scenarios from the films, providing a unique twist that some reviewers found engaging. This mode appears to offer a more dynamic and entertaining experience compared to the main campaign, which is seen as a positive aspect of the overall structure. However, the overwhelming sentiment among critics is that the campaign mode itself is lacking in depth and engagement. Atomix and PLAY! Zine criticize the story as a weak pretext for gameplay, describing it as shallow and repetitive, with the campaign often feeling more like a tutorial than a fully fleshed-out narrative experience. The brevity of the campaign, with many reviewers noting it can be completed in a mere five to six hours, further contributes to the perception of a lack of substance. Critics like Metro GameCentral and SpazioGames echo this sentiment, calling the storyline thin and forgettable, with an uninspired plot that fails to provide meaningful challenges or character development. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Jurassic World Evolution 2 has potential in its premise and the nostalgic appeal of its characters, the execution of its story leaves much to be desired. The campaign mode is largely viewed as an inadequate introduction to the game, failing to utilize new mechanics effectively and instead serving as a lengthy tutorial. Critics such as Hey Poor Player and PC Games emphasize that the narrative does not engage players sufficiently, making it a missed opportunity in a franchise that thrives on rich storytelling and character arcs. Ultimately, while the game offers some intriguing scenarios through its Chaos Theory mode, the main campaign is perceived as a significant drawback that detracts from the overall experience.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Jurassic World Evolution 2 impresses with engaging gameplay and improved park management, featuring multiple modes and new mechanics like recruiting scientists. However, critics highlight excessive micromanagement and repetitive tasks as significant flaws, leading to a tedious experience for many. While some enjoy its complexity, the game falls short in depth compared to other management simulators, resulting in a mixed reception.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

50%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

44%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

Jurassic World Evolution 2 has garnered a mix of opinions from critics, with several praising its engaging gameplay and the depth it offers in managing a dinosaur park. Critics like GamingBolt and TheGamer highlight significant improvements over its predecessor, particularly in guest management, dinosaur AI, and the introduction of new mechanics like recruiting scientists. The game features a variety of modes, including Campaign, Chaos Theory, Challenge, and Sandbox, which provide players with unique challenges and creative freedom, as noted by Xbox Tavern and GamingTrend. Additionally, some reviewers, such as COGconnected and But Why Tho?, commend the game for its rewarding management experience and the integration of new dinosaur behaviors and bioengineering, which add layers of complexity and engagement. However, despite these positives, many critics have pointed out substantial flaws in the gameplay. A common criticism is the excessive micromanagement required, which can lead to a tedious experience. Gamer.nl and SpazioGames emphasize that the gameplay often feels bogged down by repetitive tasks and cumbersome mechanics. The controls have also been described as awkward, particularly on consoles, as noted by Hey Poor Player. Critics like Screen Rant and Wccftech echo sentiments about the gameplay feeling repetitive and lacking depth, with some even describing it as simplistic compared to other management simulators. This sentiment is further reinforced by GameWatcher, who mentions the light and ambiguous nature of park creation tools. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Jurassic World Evolution 2 offers a range of new features and modes that enhance the management simulation experience, it is marred by significant issues related to micromanagement and repetitive gameplay. Many reviewers, including GRYOnline.pl and Power Unlimited, agree that the game lacks the depth and freedom found in other management games, leading to a mixed reception. While some players may appreciate the complexity and strategic elements, others may find the gameplay tedious and frustrating, indicating a divide in player experience and expectations.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Jurassic World Evolution 2 impresses with stunning graphics and lifelike dinosaur animations, winning praise for its immersive visuals and high production values. However, critics flag performance issues like frame drops and glitches, along with a lack of significant advancements over its predecessor, which hinder the overall experience. While the game shines visually, technical shortcomings keep it from realizing its full potential.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

70%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

30%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The graphics and visual design of Jurassic World Evolution 2 have garnered a largely positive reception among critics, with many praising the detailed and lifelike representations of dinosaurs and their environments. Reviewers like PC Gamer and IGN Italia highlighted the stunning visual fidelity, noting the beautifully modeled dinosaurs and the immersive landscapes that reflect the cinematic atmosphere of the franchise. Critics such as GamingBolt and God is a Geek emphasized the high production values, showcasing the attention to detail in both the dinosaur animations and the environments. The introduction of new species and improved animations has also been commended, with Destructoid and TheSixthAxis noting how these enhancements contribute to a more engaging experience, making the dinosaurs feel alive and interactive. However, despite the overall acclaim, several critics pointed out notable drawbacks that detract from the visual experience. Performance issues, including frame drops, texture pop-in, and glitches, were frequently mentioned, particularly by reviewers such as IGN France and TrueAchievements, who noted that these technical problems hinder the enjoyment of the graphics. Critics like Generación Xbox and Areajugones expressed disappointment over the lack of significant improvements from the first installment, suggesting that some graphical elements feel outdated. Additionally, But Why Tho? highlighted concerns regarding the game's performance on older systems, indicating that visual glitches and crashes could disrupt the gameplay experience. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Jurassic World Evolution 2 presents a visually appealing package, with impressive dinosaur designs and immersive environments that effectively capture the essence of the Jurassic franchise. While the majority of reviewers, including Metro GameCentral and Hey Poor Player, found the graphics to be a strong selling point, the recurring mentions of performance issues and a lack of innovation in certain areas suggest that there is room for improvement. Overall, the game is viewed as a visually charming experience, but it is marred by technical shortcomings that prevent it from reaching its full potential.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Jurassic World Evolution 2 impresses with its nostalgic orchestral soundtrack and returning voice talents, like Jeff Goldblum, enhancing its cinematic feel. However, criticisms arise over inconsistent voice acting, missing original actors, and audio bugs that disrupt immersion. Overall, while the sound design elevates the gameplay, addressing these issues could significantly improve the experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

45%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

50%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The sound design and music of Jurassic World Evolution 2 have garnered a generally positive reception among critics, particularly regarding the nostalgic elements that enhance the gaming experience. Many reviewers, such as Impulsegamer and Generación Xbox, praised the orchestral soundtrack reminiscent of John Williams, which contributes significantly to the game's atmosphere and emotional depth. The presence of iconic musical themes from the franchise, as noted by critics like Atomix and Player 2, adds to the immersive quality of the game. Additionally, the return of notable voice actors, including Jeff Goldblum, is highlighted by several reviewers, such as Hardcore Gamer and Push Square, as a strong point that ties the game to its cinematic roots. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the sound design and voice acting that detract from the overall experience. While some voice performances, like Goldblum's, are well-received, others are described as flat or lacking enthusiasm, particularly by critics such as Gamers Heroes and Hey Poor Player. The absence of original actors, like Chris Pratt, has also been a point of contention, with GameSpew and TheSixthAxis noting that this creates a jarring experience for players familiar with the films. Furthermore, some reviews, such as Checkpoint Gaming and IGN France, pointed out issues with sound effects being muted or bugs affecting the audio, which can disrupt immersion. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Jurassic World Evolution 2 features a commendable sound design and music that evoke nostalgia and enhance the gameplay experience, despite some inconsistencies in voice acting and sound execution. Critics like Vandal and IGN have acknowledged the effective use of iconic sounds and orchestral music, while also recognizing the mixed results in voice performances. The blend of nostalgic elements with modern gaming mechanics creates an engaging experience, although the game could benefit from addressing the criticisms regarding voice acting and audio quality to fully realize its potential.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Jurassic World Evolution 2 shines with strong voice performances from original cast members like Jeff Goldblum and Bryce Dallas Howard, enhancing nostalgia and immersion. However, critics slam the lackluster portrayals of characters voiced by impersonators, notably Chris Pratt, leading to mixed reviews. While the game boasts nostalgic charm, inconsistent voice acting quality leaves players craving more authenticity.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

29%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

65%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The voice acting in Jurassic World Evolution 2 has garnered a generally positive reception, particularly for the inclusion of notable actors from the film franchise. Critics like Atomix and COGconnected highlight the return of recognizable characters, with Jeff Goldblum and Bryce Dallas Howard's performances being particularly praised for enhancing the game's immersive experience. Destructoid and GamingBolt commend Goldblum's charm as Dr. Ian Malcolm, indicating that his presence adds a nostalgic touch to the gameplay. Furthermore, the involvement of original cast members contributes to the authenticity and emotional connection for fans, as noted by Generación Xbox and PC Gamer, who appreciate the nostalgic element that the familiar voices bring to the game. However, the voice acting has its share of criticisms, particularly regarding the performances of characters not voiced by their original actors. Critics like Metro GameCentral and Hardcore Gamer express disappointment with the replacement voice actors, describing their performances as lacking impact and authenticity. The impersonation of Chris Pratt, for instance, has been specifically criticized for failing to capture the essence of the character, leading to a disjointed experience. Additionally, some reviews, such as those from Gamers Heroes and Hey Poor Player, mention that the dialogue can feel flat and unengaging, detracting from the overall quality of the voice work. Overall, the consensus among critics is mixed. While many appreciate the return of key actors and recognize the charm they bring to the game, there is a notable concern regarding the inconsistency in voice acting quality, especially for characters portrayed by impersonators. Reviews from outlets like IGN and Push Square reflect this duality, acknowledging the strengths of Goldblum and Howard while also highlighting the shortcomings of other performances. Ultimately, Jurassic World Evolution 2 offers a blend of nostalgic appeal through its voice acting, but it is marred by uneven execution that leaves some players wanting more depth and authenticity.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Jurassic World Evolution 2 shows strong technical performance on PS5 and Xbox Series X, praised for stability, AI, and loading speeds, but suffers from frustrating control issues and pathfinding glitches. The PC version is a mixed bag, with notable crashes and AI problems. Overall, while the game has potential, technical flaws across all platforms prevent a fully satisfactory experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

12%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

68%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

21%

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

The technical performance of Jurassic World Evolution 2 varies across platforms, with the PlayStation 5 (PS5) receiving a generally positive reception. Critics like Atomix and Eurogamer Italy highlight the game’s commendable stability, improved AI, and faster loading times, suggesting a polished experience compared to its predecessor. Destructoid also notes the game’s overall polish, while Impulsegamer appreciates the user-friendly interface. On PC, the performance is mixed but leans towards the positive, with Checkpoint Gaming reporting smooth gameplay and Multiplayer.it emphasizing substantial improvements over the previous title. On Xbox Series X, Generación Xbox and TheXboxHub commend the game for its stable frame rates and user-friendly interface, indicating a well-optimized experience. However, there are significant technical issues reported across all platforms. On PS5, critics like Gamers Heroes and Hardcore Gamer express disappointment with cumbersome interfaces and sluggish vehicle controls, while IGN Adria highlights stability struggles despite the console's capabilities. For PC, critics such as Games.cz and But Why Tho? point out crashing issues and AI problems, which detract from the overall experience. The Xbox Series X also faces challenges, with Gamer.nl and IGN France mentioning performance issues, including freezing and frame rate drops as parks expand. Additionally, Jeuxvideo.com raises concerns about pathfinding issues affecting gameplay across both PS5 and Xbox Series X. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Jurassic World Evolution 2 shows promise with improved technical performance and stability on PS5 and Xbox Series X, it is marred by various glitches and control issues. The PC version, while demonstrating some technical improvements, also suffers from notable performance problems that hinder the experience. Critics like IGN and PC Gamer indicate that the game has rough edges, and while some aspects are polished, the technical shortcomings across platforms prevent it from achieving a fully satisfying gameplay experience.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Jurassic World Evolution 2 boasts diverse modes like Campaign, Challenge, Chaos Theory, and Sandbox, enhancing replay value, especially for franchise fans. However, critics note significant limitations, such as restricted Sandbox access and repetitive tasks, which may frustrate casual players seeking more freedom. While dedicated fans might enjoy the variety, the game risks leaving others wanting deeper gameplay.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

44%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

53%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

Jurassic World Evolution 2 has garnered a mixed but generally positive sentiment regarding its replay value from various critics. Many reviewers highlight the game’s diverse modes, including the Campaign, Challenge, Chaos Theory, and Sandbox modes, which provide players with numerous ways to engage with the content. For instance, IGN Adria notes that the Chaos Theory mode enhances replayability by offering nostalgic scenarios from the films, while Hardcore Gamer emphasizes that the Sandbox mode allows for experimentation with park management and dinosaur care, ensuring a long-lasting experience. Critics like PC Gamer and Eurogamer Italy also commend the unique dynamics of the game, which keep players engaged with the constant threat of chaos in their parks. However, several reviewers express concerns about the limitations that hinder replay value. IGN Italia and Gamer.nl both point out that the Sandbox mode is initially restricted, requiring players to unlock content through other modes, which can detract from the overall experience. Additionally, Games.cz mentions the repetitive nature of tasks and the shortcomings of the Sandbox mode, which restrict player freedom. Critics like XboxAddict and Digitally Downloaded further highlight that the grindy elements and the need to complete other modes before accessing Sandbox may frustrate players who prefer a more open-ended gameplay experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Jurassic World Evolution 2 offers a variety of modes that can enhance replayability, significant limitations exist that may deter long-term engagement. Many reviewers, such as Gfinity and Multiplayer.it, note that the requirement to unlock features in the Sandbox mode and the short campaign can limit the game's appeal to casual players. Despite these drawbacks, there remains a core group of players, particularly fans of the franchise, who may find sufficient replay value through the various modes and challenges presented. Ultimately, the game appears to cater well to dedicated fans while potentially leaving casual players wanting more depth and freedom in their gameplay experience.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

61%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

38%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

Jurassic World Evolution 2 has garnered a range of positive sentiments from critics, highlighting its appeal to fans of the franchise and its improvements over its predecessor. Many reviewers, such as Atomix and Game Rant, praise the game for its engaging gameplay, improved dinosaur behavior, and the nostalgic elements that resonate with long-time fans. The visuals have also been a focal point of admiration, with critics like CGMagazine and Guardian noting the game's stunning graphics and the immersive experience it provides in managing a dinosaur park. Additionally, several reviews, including those from Multiplayer.it and TheSixthAxis, commend the game for offering a wealth of content and replayability, particularly through its various modes and the introduction of new dinosaur types. Despite the positive aspects, a significant number of critics have pointed out various flaws that detract from the overall experience. Many reviews, including those from Gamer.nl and Screen Rant, express disappointment with the game's execution, citing issues such as repetitive gameplay, technical problems, and a lack of innovation. Critics like IGN France and Gfinity have described the game as feeling like a minimal upgrade rather than a substantial sequel, suggesting that it may not satisfy players looking for deeper management experiences. Furthermore, some reviewers, such as Hey Poor Player and SpazioGames, have highlighted control issues and micromanagement challenges that can frustrate players, particularly casual gamers. The overall consensus among critics indicates that while Jurassic World Evolution 2 has made strides in certain areas, it still falls short of being a fully realized sequel. Many reviewers agree that the game is enjoyable for fans of the franchise, as noted by Xbox Tavern and Destructoid, but it struggles with technical shortcomings and a lack of significant innovation. Critics like Wccftech and Impulsegamer acknowledge that while the game improves upon its predecessor, it remains a mixed bag, offering fun moments but also presenting challenges that may alienate some players. Ultimately, Jurassic World Evolution 2 appears to cater primarily to existing fans of the series while leaving room for improvement in depth and gameplay mechanics.

TL;DR

Jurassic World Evolution 2 impresses fans with improved gameplay, stunning visuals, and nostalgic elements, but suffers from repetitive gameplay and technical issues. While it's a step up from its predecessor, critics feel it's more of a minor upgrade than a true sequel, appealing primarily to die-hard fans while lacking innovation and depth.

MONSTER

Reviews

101 reviews found

100

TheGamer

Nov 5, 2021