[Review] Layers of Fear 2 - Some praise it, others criticize it.

Following the success of Layers of Fear in 2016, developer Bloober Team continues to release a sequel titled Layers of Fear 2. While the first game's spooky story revolved around a deranged artist and paintings from the previous century, the second installment is set on a ghostly ship adrift at sea. Layers of Fear 2 is expected to continue the success of its predecessor and become one of the best horror games of the year. Currently, Layers of Fear 2 is receiving mixed reviews from the media, with some praising it as a masterpiece and others criticizing it as terrible.

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We'll start with a review from IGN – one of the world's most famous movie and game review websites. While giving the first part a very modest rating (5.8/10), IGN didn't hesitate to give Layers of Fear a score of 9/10.

"Throughout the game, I was constantly surrounded by the game's hauntingly compelling storyline and unsettling atmosphere; it's arguably one of the best horror games currently available. Based on an increasingly frenzied plot and classic cinematic techniques, every twist in this perilous journey is startling and prolongs the feeling of unease. With unique puzzles and a familiar pace, Layers of Fear 2 is a thrilling and terrifying adventure."

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DualShockers (8.5/10):

'Layers of Fear 2 is one of the best pure horror games I've played recently. Bloober Team has created a product that pushes aside the mainstream horror craze, making room for something more engaging and exciting. The journey to the very end is the most unsettling one I've ever experienced.'

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However, some other websites did not rate Layers of Fear 2 highly, for example Game Informer (6/10), PC Gamer (57%), Destructoid (65/100). Game Informer:

"Layers of Fear 2 shares the same shortcomings as its predecessor; there are many clues within the story, yet the storytelling and atmosphere prevent me from connecting anything to the fear."

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Destructoid:

"Layers of Fear 2 isn't a bad game. It has many noteworthy aspects, such as the lavish ship designs, the vibrant classic Hollywood theme, a theme song that makes you feel like you're in a dark café, and the dangerous mannequins. There are many excellent individual details, but unfortunately, they aren't connected in the most seamless way."

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Undeniably, Layers of Fear 2 inherited the strengths of its predecessor, while also guiding players with a slower pace, preventing their brains from being stretched to a tightrope. However, the disjointed and unconnected storyline makes the game bland, lacking the fear and suspense that are hallmarks of horror games.