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The Talos Principle 2

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of The Talos Principle 2
Item: The Talos Principle 2
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2023

GenresAdventure, Indie, Third Person Perspective, Puzzle and Logic, Single Player, First Person Perspective

AvailableNov 2, 2023

PlatformXbox Series X, PC, PlayStation 5

DeveloperCroteam

Overview

The Talos Principle II is a thought-provoking first-person puzzle experience that greatly expands on the first game's philosophical themes and stunning environments with increasingly mind-bending challenges.

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

The Talos Principle 2 has garnered positive reviews for its deep philosophical themes and engaging narrative, praised by critics for its exploration of humanity and moral dilemmas in a post-human world. While its rich storytelling and character development resonate well, some reviewers criticize it for being overly pedantic and disrupting gameplay with heavy exposition. Despite these flaws, the consensus is that the game offers a compelling narrative that enhances the overall experience, making it a must-play for fans of philosophical exploration in gaming.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story 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 story and narrative.

The overall sentiment regarding the story of The Talos Principle 2 is predominantly positive, with many critics praising its deep philosophical themes and engaging narrative. Reviewers such as IGN and PC Gamer highlight the compelling exploration of humanity, existence, and the moral dilemmas faced by sentient robots in a post-human world. Critics like GameSkinny and Noisy Pixel commend the story for being rich and thought-provoking, with well-developed characters that enhance the player's emotional connection to the narrative. The game is noted for its intricate world-building, particularly in the portrayal of the character 1K and the society of New Jerusalem, as mentioned by Gaming Age and Worth Playing. Additionally, the narrative's ability to intertwine with gameplay, as noted by Press Start Australia, further enriches the overall experience. However, despite the praise, several critics have pointed out shortcomings in the story's execution. Reviewers from SECTOR.sk and SpazioGames criticize the narrative for being overly pedantic, suggesting that it sometimes feels like a lecture rather than an engaging story. Others, like Movies Games and Tech, mention that the philosophical themes can be presented in a way that disrupts the flow of gameplay, often relying on large text passages instead of integrating these ideas more seamlessly into the puzzles. Additionally, some critics, such as God is a Geek, feel that while the story has merit, it suffers from unnecessary exposition that detracts from its overall impact. In summary, the consensus among critics is that The Talos Principle 2 offers a compelling and thought-provoking narrative that successfully builds upon the themes established in the original game. While there are criticisms regarding the delivery of its philosophical content and pacing, the majority of reviewers agree that the story is engaging and provides a rich backdrop for the gameplay. Critics like MondoXbox and C0Gconnected emphasize the depth of the narrative and its ability to provoke thought, indicating that, overall, the story is a significant strength of the game, making it a worthwhile experience for players who appreciate philosophical exploration within their gaming.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

The Talos Principle 2 is lauded for its intricate puzzle design and innovative mechanics like gravity manipulation, offering a rewarding and engaging gameplay experience. While critics praise its variety and non-linear structure, some point out areas for improvement, such as frustrating layouts and less intuitive new mechanics. Overall, it successfully blends familiar elements with fresh ideas, solidifying its status as a worthy successor in the puzzle genre.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

93%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of The Talos Principle 2 has garnered widespread acclaim from critics, with many praising its intricate puzzle design and engaging mechanics. Reviewers such as IGN Italia and GameStar highlighted the game’s impressive variety of puzzles, which range in difficulty and encourage creative problem-solving. Critics like Digital Spy and Meristation noted the introduction of new mechanics, such as gravity manipulation and mind transference, which keep the gameplay fresh and engaging. The overall structure of the game allows for a smooth learning curve and a sense of accomplishment, as players can tackle puzzles in a non-linear fashion, as mentioned by Windows Central and Press Start Australia. The emphasis on exploration and philosophical choices, as discussed by The Games Machine, adds depth to the gameplay, enhancing the player experience. Despite the numerous positives, some critics pointed out areas where the gameplay could be improved. For instance, Softpedia felt that while the puzzle design was excellent, it did not surpass that of the first game, indicating a potential for greater innovation. PC Invasion mentioned that certain puzzle layouts could be frustrating, suggesting that while the game is enjoyable, it may not always hit the mark for every player. Additionally, Vandal criticized some of the new mechanics, specifically the changes involving tetrominos, which they found less intuitive. This indicates that while the game is largely well-received, there are aspects that may not resonate with all players. Overall, the consensus among critics is that The Talos Principle 2 offers a compelling and intellectually stimulating gameplay experience. The majority of reviews reflect a positive sentiment, with many praising the game's ability to blend familiar mechanics with innovative new elements. Critics such as GamingTrend and Xbox Tavern emphasized the balance of difficulty and the rewarding nature of the puzzles, while others like GameSpew noted the freedom players have in choosing how to approach challenges. This combination of engaging puzzle design, exploration, and philosophical themes has led to a strong reception, positioning The Talos Principle 2 as a worthy successor in the puzzle genre.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

The Talos Principle 2 is visually stunning, earning rave reviews for its breathtaking environments and character designs powered by Unreal Engine 5. Critics praise the game's immersive biomes and artistic direction, although some note minor issues like texture pop-in and an overly busy open world. Despite these flaws, the overall consensus is that it offers one of the best visual experiences in gaming today.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

87%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

13%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The graphics and visual design of The Talos Principle 2 have garnered widespread acclaim from critics, who consistently highlight the impressive use of Unreal Engine 5 to create stunning visuals. Reviewers from various platforms, including Generación Xbox and MondoXbox, praise the game's detailed environments and character designs, noting the breathtaking landscapes and immersive biomes that enhance the exploration experience. Critics like ZTGD and XboxAddict emphasize the beauty of the twelve distinct zones, each contributing to a captivating atmosphere. Moreover, the game allows players to choose between quality and performance settings, which further enriches the visual experience, as noted by MondoXbox. The artistic direction has also been commended, with Game Informer and God is a Geek remarking on the game's ability to create a sense of scale and grandeur, making the world feel alive and engaging. Despite the overall positive reception, some critics have pointed out several minor issues that detract from the visual experience. For instance, Adventure Gamers and GameSpot mention problems like texture pop-in and muddy textures from a distance, which can disrupt immersion. Xbox Tavern critiques the open world sections for feeling busy and empty, lacking meaningful exploration, while PlayStation Universe notes that the game lacks a surprising 'wow' factor despite its impressive graphics. Additionally, some reviewers, such as PlaySense and PlayStation Universe, mention minor issues with pop-in and ghosting at higher framerates, indicating that while the visuals are strong, they are not without their flaws. Overall, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive, with the majority praising the graphics and visual design of The Talos Principle 2 as very good. The game successfully combines beautiful environments with intricate details, creating an engaging and immersive experience for players. Critics like CGMagazine and New Game Network highlight the game's ability to blend natural landscapes with puzzle designs, enhancing the overall gameplay. While there are some minor visual issues, they do not overshadow the game's artistic achievements and the impressive execution of its environments, making it a visually stunning title that many reviewers consider one of the best-looking games available.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

The Talos Principle 2 has garnered rave reviews for its immersive sound design and emotionally resonant soundtrack, enhancing gameplay and atmosphere. Critics praise its variety and orchestral depth, noting its crucial role in storytelling. Minor technical issues exist, but they pale in comparison to the overall acclaim, solidifying the game's audio as a standout feature in the first-person puzzle genre.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

97%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The sound design and music of The Talos Principle 2 have received overwhelmingly positive feedback from critics across various platforms. Many reviewers, such as Generación Xbox and MondoXbox, highlight how the music complements the gameplay, enhancing immersion and emotional engagement. Critics like Adventure Gamers and XboxAddict praise the soundtrack for its variety and atmospheric quality, with calming tunes for exploration and powerful orchestral pieces for significant moments. The sound design is noted for its ability to create an immersive experience, as mentioned by GameGrin and Gamereactor UK, who emphasize the high-quality compositions and well-balanced audio elements that contribute to the game's overall aesthetic. Despite the strong praise, a few critics have pointed out minor issues that could detract from the overall experience. For instance, GameGrin mentions some disjointed transitions between areas in the soundtrack, while Shacknews notes occasional audio skips. However, these criticisms are relatively minor compared to the overall acclaim the game has received. Critics like Noisy Pixel and PC Gamer also acknowledge some minor technical hiccups, such as NPCs getting stuck or voice lines being cut off, but these do not overshadow the positive aspects of the audio design. In summary, the consensus among critics is that The Talos Principle 2 excels in its sound design and music, with the majority praising the soundtrack for its ability to enhance gameplay and create an engaging atmosphere. Critics such as Digital Spy and Worth Playing underscore the soundtrack's emotional resonance, describing it as haunting and beautiful, which is integral to the game's narrative and puzzle-solving elements. Overall, the sound design and music are seen as significant strengths of the game, contributing to its status as a standout title in the first-person puzzle genre.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Critics laud the voice acting in The Talos Principle 2 for enhancing character depth and narrative immersion, with "believable performances" making androids relatable and engaging. While some reviews note the voice work as merely "acceptable" and highlight limitations in facial expressions, the overall consensus is that the voice acting is a strong asset, adding charm and depth to the game's philosophical themes.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

64%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

36%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The voice acting in The Talos Principle 2 has received a largely positive reception from critics, highlighting its effectiveness in enhancing character depth and narrative immersion. Reviewers such as XboxAddict praised the "believable performances" that bring the android characters to life, while COGconnected noted the voice acting as "excellent," contributing positively to the overall narrative experience. Many critics, including PC Gamer and Noisy Pixel, emphasized the cast's ability to deliver performances that make the characters feel relatable and engaging. The presence of distinct personalities among the robot companions, as pointed out by GameSkinny and GamingTrend, adds a layer of charm to the interactions, making them enjoyable for players. However, there are some criticisms regarding the voice acting that should be noted. While several reviewers acknowledged the quality of the performances, some, like Gamereactor UK, described the voice acting as "acceptable" but not particularly standout. Additionally, Adventure Gamers pointed out the limitation of facial expressions in robotic characters, which could detract from their individuality despite competent voice acting. Slant Magazine also mentioned that while there are more voice-acted conversations, some dialogues may come off as basic, indicating that not every aspect of the voice work resonates equally with all players. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the voice acting in The Talos Principle 2 is a strong asset that significantly enhances the game's narrative and character interactions. While there are minor critiques regarding certain aspects of the dialogues and the limitations of robotic expressions, the majority of reviewers, including Generación Xbox and Ragequit.gr, agree that the performances are commendable and contribute positively to the player's experience. The diverse accents and distinct personalities highlighted by PlaySense and God is a Geek further enrich the game, making it a well-rounded auditory experience that complements its philosophical themes.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

The Talos Principle 2 impresses with solid performance on Xbox Series X, PC, and PS5, allowing for tailored experiences. However, all platforms suffer from serious issues: Xbox has unstable framerates in quality mode, PC faces crashes and stuttering, and PS5 experiences significant frame drops below 30 FPS. While the game shows promise, it needs optimization and patches, so choose your platform wisely.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

34%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

63%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The technical performance of The Talos Principle 2 varies significantly across different gaming platforms, showcasing both strengths and weaknesses. On the Xbox Series X, critics like MondoXbox note that the game runs smoothly with solid technical performance, providing two graphical settings to balance visual fidelity and frame rate. This is a positive aspect that allows players to tailor their experience. On PC, many reviewers, including Everyeye.it and Multiplayer.it, report stable performance, with the game running well on mid-range to high-end systems. The game is also praised for its customization options and ability to run smoothly on the Steam Deck, as mentioned by Ragequit.gr and TouchArcade. On PlayStation 5, critics like Gaming Age and Hey Poor Player highlight the smooth framerate and overall polished experience, indicating that the game generally performs well on this platform. However, there are notable negatives across all platforms. On Xbox Series X, Generación Xbox points out the unstable framerates in quality mode, which detracts from the overall experience. On PC, while many reviews are positive, there are significant concerns regarding crashes, stuttering, and control issues. Checkpoint Gaming and IGN emphasize the frequent crashes and performance issues, particularly when saving or under heavy load. The PS5 version also faces criticism, particularly from Vandal, who describes fluctuating framerates that can drop below 30 frames per second, making it nearly unplayable in quality mode. Other reviews, such as those from PlaySense and Push Square, mention occasional frame drops and visual glitches, indicating that the PS5 version is not without its problems. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while The Talos Principle 2 has commendable technical aspects across platforms, it is marred by a range of performance issues. The Xbox Series X and PS5 versions both exhibit framerate instability in certain modes or scenarios, while the PC version, despite its generally stable performance, suffers from crashes and other technical glitches. Critics like IGN and Hardcore Gamer highlight these inconsistencies, suggesting that while the game has potential, it may require further optimization and patches to enhance the experience across all platforms. As such, players may want to consider their platform of choice carefully, as the experience can vary significantly based on hardware and settings.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Critics are largely positive about The Talos Principle 2's replay value, praising its rich content, multiple endings, and engaging puzzles, which encourage exploration. With playtime ranging from 20 to 30+ hours, players enjoy uncovering secrets creatively. However, some note inherent limitations of puzzle games on replayability, such as needing full playthroughs and the lack of fast travel. While concerns exist, most agree that the game’s depth and choices make it worth revisiting.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

37%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

63%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of The Talos Principle 2 is largely positive among critics. Many reviewers highlight the game’s rich content and the variety of gameplay experiences it offers. Generación Xbox emphasizes the multiple endings based on player choices, which encourages exploration of different outcomes. MondoXbox notes that the game provides a substantial playtime of 20 to over 30 hours, depending on how players approach the main story versus exploration. Critics like Digital Spy and Game Informer also mention the satisfaction derived from uncovering secrets and solving puzzles in creative ways, which adds to the game's replayability. The consensus is that the game’s engaging puzzles and philosophical depth create a compelling reason for players to return. However, some critics express concerns regarding the limitations of replay value. COGconnected points out that while multiple endings and optional puzzles exist, the nature of puzzle games can inherently limit replayability, often requiring a full playthrough to experience these elements. Additionally, Adventure Gamers mentions that the lack of fast travel may deter players from revisiting certain sections, which could hinder exploration. Softpedia even goes so far as to state that the game lacks real replay value, despite its rich content keeping players engaged for extended periods. This sentiment echoes in other reviews, where the formulaic nature of the story is seen as a potential drawback. Overall, the critics agree that The Talos Principle 2 offers significant replay value through its engaging puzzles, multiple endings, and opportunities for exploration. Reviewers like XboxAddict and PC Gamer underscore the importance of optional content and the freedom to choose how to approach puzzles, which enhances the overall experience. While some limitations exist, particularly regarding the nature of puzzle games and potential barriers to exploration, the majority of critics find enough incentive to encourage players to revisit the game. The combination of philosophical engagement and diverse gameplay elements positions The Talos Principle 2 as a title that many players will likely want to experience more than once.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

97%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment surrounding The Talos Principle 2 is overwhelmingly positive, with many critics praising its intricate puzzle design and thought-provoking narrative. Reviewers such as Metro GameCentral highlight the "brilliantly engineered" challenges that are deeply embedded in a "fascinating and witty philosophical framework," while MondoXbox commends the game for enhancing its predecessor's strengths with compelling storytelling and impressive visuals. Critics like Hardcore Gamer and Game Informer also emphasize the game’s ability to combine challenging puzzles with deep philosophical themes, making it a rewarding experience for players. The game is frequently described as a "must-play" for fans of the genre, with many reviewers noting its beautiful environments and engaging gameplay, further solidifying its reputation as a standout title in 2023. Despite the acclaim, some critics have pointed out certain shortcomings. For instance, SECTOR.sk mentions narrative shortcomings, suggesting that while the puzzles are excellent, the storytelling could use refinement. Xbox Tavern also notes that some trimming of excess content could enhance the overall experience. Additionally, technical issues have been mentioned by several reviewers, including IGN and GameSpot, who acknowledge that these minor flaws can detract from the otherwise polished gameplay. Critics like Digital Trends and Eurogamer Germany also mention pacing issues and integration challenges, indicating that while the game excels in many areas, it is not without its faults. In summary, the consensus among critics is that The Talos Principle 2 is a remarkable sequel that successfully builds on the foundation of its predecessor, offering an engaging blend of puzzles and philosophical exploration. The majority of reviewers, including GameGrin and Digital Spy, consider it a masterpiece within the puzzle genre, praising its depth and complexity. While some critics have raised concerns regarding narrative coherence and technical performance, these issues do not overshadow the game's overall quality. The game is widely recommended for both casual and dedicated players, making it a significant achievement for Croteam and a highlight of the gaming landscape in 2023.

TL;DR

The Talos Principle 2 is a critically acclaimed sequel that masterfully blends intricate puzzles with thought-provoking storytelling, earning it a "must-play" status for puzzle fans. Critics laud its "brilliantly engineered" challenges and stunning visuals, though some note narrative flaws and technical issues. Despite minor criticisms, the game is celebrated as a standout title in 2023, solidifying its place as a masterpiece in the genre.

MONSTER

Reviews

95 reviews found

100

Hey Poor Player

PlayStation 5

Nov 2, 2023

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

The Talos Principle 2 refines the strengths of its predecessor, offering a perfect blend of philosophy and puzzle-solving that appeals to both casual and dedicated players.

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100

PlayStation Universe

PlayStation 5

Nov 9, 2023

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

The Talos Principle 2 is hailed as a philosophical masterpiece, offering a unique and thought-provoking gaming experience that challenges players intellectually and artistically.

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100

Digital Spy

Nov 2, 2023

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

The review describes The Talos Principle 2 as a masterpiece in the genre and praises its puzzle design, narrative focus, and sublime world. It states that there is nothing else quite like experiencing every mystery the game has to offer.

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100

Eurogamer Germany

Nov 3, 2023

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

The Talos Principle 2 is a thought-provoking game that goes beyond being a simple puzzle game and encourages players to engage in deep thinking.

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Impulsegamer

Nov 3, 2023

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

The game is visually pleasing and mentally stimulating, making it a great experience for fans of philosophy or puzzle solving. It is recommended to add to your collection.

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Digital Chumps

PlayStation 5

Jan 2, 2024

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

The Talos Principle II is praised as a deeply involved game that transcends its genre, offering a rich narrative and engaging gameplay that rewards players for their dedication and curiosity.

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GameGrin

Nov 13, 2023

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

The Talos Principle 2 is praised as a perfect sequel that enhances the original with a deeper story and stunning visuals, making it highly recommended for puzzle enthusiasts.

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IGN Italia

Nov 2, 2023

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The Talos Principle 2 is an extraordinary game that seamlessly combines gameplay and storytelling, providing a thought-provoking experience that goes beyond mere puzzle-solving.

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Areajugones

Nov 2, 2023

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

The Talos Principle 2 is a remarkable game that stands out for its entertainment value and its ability to make players appreciate the beauty of humanity and existence.

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XboxEra

Nov 2, 2023

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

The Talos Principle 2 is praised as one of the best narrative puzzle titles, with strong puzzle design, compelling storytelling, and great art direction. Some minor UX issues are mentioned as cons.

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