Left 4 Dead 2

Mechanics

Compared to the first instalment, one of the biggest innovations is the introduction of new kinds of weapons for close quarters combat. Now you can dispatch your foes not only with rifles and guns but also chainsaws, pans, axes and baseball bats. This enriches the already intense mechanics and creates new strategic possibilities for your team.

Left 4 Dead 2 also utilizes a new version of AI Director, the system that back in the first instalment was responsible for e.g. the directions the enemies would come from, their spawning point, etc., which added variety to the gameplay. In the second instalment, the Valve South team went even further. AI Director 2.0 does not only implement changeable weather conditions, but also changes the map layouts. In later playthroughs, you may find some paths blocked (by e.g. a fallen-over bus), which forces you to find another way.

In Left 4 Dead 2 for PC and X360 you play as one of the four new characters (Nick, Rochelle, Coach or Ellis) and fight zombies and other undead creatures (including new bosses). To exterminate the bloodthirsty hordes, you can use previously unavailable types of weaponry, including the above-mentioned close quarters combat weapons, and special items. Left 4 Dead 2 is a much bigger game than its predecessor. It features not only more co-op campaigns, but also Versus mode scenarios. There are also many new Survival mode maps. The game also contains a complex stats system, best player rankings, and a reward system based on getting Achievements.