Cert: 18+
Platform: PS3 / Xbox360
Genre: Action/Adventure
Bigger. That's the first word that comes to mind when describing Ubisoft's eagerly anticipated follow-up to 2007's, Assassin's Creed. Again using the Animus, a machine which allows our hero to tap into, and experience, his ancestor's memories, in Assassin's Creed II, we're brought back to 15th Century Renaissance Italy, into the memories of nobleman- assassin, Ezio Auditore da Firenze.
Due to the fact the world is a lot more open and freer to explore, there is a lot more variety on offer here than that which we saw in it's rather liner predecessor. Missions, although similar for the majority, are constantly adapted in such a way that each new task seems fresh and exciting.
15th Century Italy looks lush, polished and, at times, beautiful – flying over Florence at sunset is simply breathtaking- yet overall, the visuals are just a notch or two below those seen in the brilliant Arkham Asylum.
Superior in almost every way to it's older brother, Assassin's Creed II's free-roaming nature ensures a superlative time can be had by all. Plus, an endless amount of collectables ensures there are rewards for a second run-through.
This Assassin doesn't beat Gotham's famous Bat, but Ubisoft have created a hero who appears to be progressing with each new entry. The next chapter might just be a cracker.
Rent or Buy: Buy
Graphics: 4/5
Gameplay: 4/5
Replay Value: 3/5
Overall: 4/5
Reviewed By: Simon Rubbathan