Originally released in April 2023, Dead Island 2 puts players in a quarantined version of Los Angeles, where a deadly outbreak has turned much of the population into flesh-hungry zombies. Players take control of one of six playable characters, each with their own abilities, and fight to survive while uncovering the truth behind the outbreak.
The setting takes players through recognizable locations, from the wealthy neighborhoods of Beverly Hills to the beachfront attractions of Venice Beach. Instead of offering one enormous map, the game divides its version of Los Angeles into distinct areas filled with side quests, locked rooms, hidden supplies, and hostile undead.
Combat is, of course, the main attraction in Dead Island 2. Players can pick up an assortment of melee weapons, modify equipment at workbenches, and experiment with different ways to eliminate enemies. A sledgehammer can deliver crushing blows, while weapon modifications introduce effects such as electricity and fire. The game’s detailed damage system also makes encounters particularly graphic, with zombies reacting differently depending on the weapons and damage types used against them. Players who prefer company can team up with up to two others in online co-op, and those who would rather tackle the outbreak alone can play the campaign solo.
Dead Island 2’s reception suggests that its appeal depends on what players want from a zombie RPG. Critics and the player base mainly praised its combat, visual detail, and exploration, but many might bring up its forgettable story and uneven gunplay as the obvious negatives. Overall, if you can ignore the bit where missions may seem a bit repetitive, you’d definitely enjoy playing Dead Island 2. It’s the perfect experience for gamers looking to experiment with weapons and fight hordes of enemies instead of seeking a deeply layered role-playing experience.
For anyone who missed the game at launch, PlayStation Plus’ November lineup offers a convenient opportunity to see whether Dead Island 2’s weapon-focused combat and grisly take on Los Angeles make for a worthwhile zombie-slaying adventure.
